Youngstown Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 469, which aims to promote economic growth through the Ohio River. State Representative Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana) announced the approval of this legislation on Wednesday.

House Bill 469 proposes the establishment of the Ohio River Commission within the Department of Development. The commission's objective is to enhance marine cargo terminal operations and support the travel and tourism industry along the river and its tributaries. The commission will be composed of 11 members, including key figures such as the Director of Development, who will chair the committee, Directors from ODNR and ODOT, one member each appointed by both the House Speaker and Senate President, along with six additional members appointed by the Governor.

Blasdel emphasized the importance of the Ohio River, stating, "The Ohio River is not only central to our state’s identity but also essential to our state’s economy." She noted that commercial traffic has grown significantly from five million tons in 1917 to over 230 million tons today. "Creation of the Ohio River Commission will allow the State of Ohio to protect and utilize this essential cultural and commercial asset," she added.

The commission's responsibilities include developing a master plan for infrastructure and transportation projects related to the river, coordinating with various authorities on river issues, reporting annually to the Legislature about commerce on the river, and utilizing financial mechanisms like grants and loans for supporting river projects.

Following its passage in the House, House Bill 469 will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration.