'Buy Ohio' Allows Companies to Keep Contracts In-State

Recently, I have been working with a group of legislators to propose legislation that would ensure Ohio based companies are able to compete nationwide and internationally for state contracts. This “Buy Ohio” legislation aims to incentivize state investment in companies based in Ohio rather than giving taxpayer dollars to out-of-state and foreign businesses.

Since January 2009, more than $791 million in state government contracts have gone to out-of-state companies. Most of the government contracts for goods or services were approved by the state without even considering bids from Ohio companies. Government officials this year alone have already approved 168 contracts with out-of-state firms. Seventy-six percent of these contracts (128 in total) were approved with “waivers” of competitive bidding, meaning state officials handed out Ohioans’ tax dollars to out-of-state contractors without even allowing Ohio companies to submit bids on a project or contract.

When Ohio businesses and companies succeed, all Ohioans prosper. By investing Ohio tax dollars in Ohio companies, the state can encourage business growth within the state. This can lead to more jobs for Ohioans and more vibrant communities. Strengthening “Buy Ohio” provisions for taxpayer funded projects and services should be part of a greater pro-Ohio Jobs agenda I believe we should be promoting in Columbus.  

Please plan now to join me for our next “Lundy Listens” town hall meeting at The North Ridgeville Public Library starting at 11 a.m. on Sept. 22 (Saturday). I look forward to hearing your concerns about state issues. You can always reach me at 614-644-5076 or by email at district57@ohr.state.oh.us. I look forward to serving you.