The bill seeks to restore the Clean Ohio Fund, which will be managed by the Department of Development and the newly formed Clean Ohio Council. It amends section 151.40 and introduces new sections (122.65 to 122.659) in the Revised Code, defining essential terms related to brownfield cleanup and outlining the council's structure and responsibilities. The council will oversee the application process for grants and loans aimed at brownfield cleanup projects, ensuring that applicants who contributed to contamination are not approved for funding. The bill also emphasizes public involvement and prioritizes projects that benefit low-income and minority communities.

Additionally, the legislation establishes the Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund within the state treasury, funded through a portion of the gross profit from spirituous liquor sales after July 1, 2025. It specifies that grants and loans can cover up to 80% of project costs, with a maximum of $6 million per project, while requiring applicants to contribute at least 20% of the total cost. The bill also clarifies that funds from the Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund must be used strictly for cleanup and remediation efforts, prohibiting their use for administrative expenses. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for managing bond obligations, detailing enforcement actions in case of payment defaults and clarifying that these obligations are not general obligations of the state.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 151.40