The Ohio House has proposed the elimination of a 30-year-old commission tasked with overseeing campaign finance laws. This decision comes despite Governor Mike DeWine's suggestion for a slight budgetary increase to enhance its operations. Instead, Republicans advocate for a new system that would redirect campaign finance complaints to either the Secretary of State or county election boards. Proponents argue this change will streamline processes and ensure swifter resolutions, while critics fear it could undermine the impartiality and effectiveness of campaign finance regulation.
Under the proposed changes, cases currently handled by the Ohio Elections Commission (OEC) would be transferred to local authorities. Brian Stewart, Chair of the House Finance Committee, criticized the OEC for delays in processing cases, asserting that even politicians deserve due process. He emphasized the need for a more efficient system where legal professionals handle claims. The existing panel, composed of three Democrats, three Republicans, and one independent member, faces scrutiny over its ability to manage around 500-700 annual cases efficiently.
Executive Director Phil Richter defended the OEC during a February hearing, highlighting its efforts to maintain consistency across Ohio’s electoral landscape. Richter argued that decentralizing these responsibilities could lead to inconsistent interpretations of election law across counties. Furthermore, he noted that county prosecutors might be reluctant to take on additional caseloads, particularly those involving small financial disputes.
Historically, the OEC's authority was significantly curtailed following a 2014 federal court ruling declaring Ohio's prohibition against false statements unconstitutional. Despite attempts to revise legislation, no meaningful progress has occurred within the General Assembly. Former Ohio Representative Shayla Davis, now serving as the commission's vice chair, underscored the importance of maintaining an independent body to regulate campaign finances and preserve democratic integrity.
Governor DeWine remains cautious about fully endorsing the House's proposal, citing concerns regarding how responsibilities will shift if the OEC is dissolved. As the budget moves forward into the Senate, lawmakers must address whether transitioning oversight to local entities aligns with broader goals of ensuring transparency and fairness in Ohio's political processes. Ultimately, this decision carries implications for both state governance and the future of campaign finance regulation in Ohio.