Ohio Auditor

A bipartisan bill proposing increased oversight for JobsOhio, Ohio's economic development agency, received its first hearing. The measure aims to subject JobsOhio to standard state audits and annual legislative testimony, addressing concerns about its lack of transparency as a private entity not covered by state sunshine laws.

An Ohio bipartisan bill, Senate Bill 443, would require private schools using Education Choice and Education Choice Expansion vouchers to undergo annual audits, submit weekly attendance records, conduct employee background checks, and publish graduation and dropout rates. The bill aims to increase transparency as Ohio spends over $1 billion annually on vouchers, with nearly half from the expansion program allowing eligibility up to 450% of the poverty line. Lawmakers argue the current system underfunds public schools and lacks accountability.