The bill introduced by Senator Reineke aims to regulate the ownership and operation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Ohio by enacting several new sections of the Revised Code. Key definitions are provided, including terms such as "electric vehicle charging provider," "electric vehicle charging station," and "make-ready infrastructure." The bill stipulates that electric distribution utilities are generally prohibited from owning or operating publicly available EV charging stations unless they do so through a separate affiliate or subsidiary that is not subject to public utilities commission jurisdiction. Additionally, if an electric distribution utility can demonstrate a lack of publicly available charging stations in designated "areas of last resort," they may petition for approval to install and own a charging station in that area.

The legislation also outlines the process for electric distribution utilities to propose the installation of charging stations, including public notice requirements and a right of first refusal process for other potential providers. It emphasizes that revenues from electric distribution services cannot subsidize investments in EV charging stations, except under approved programs. Furthermore, the bill allows utilities to recover costs for make-ready infrastructure on a nondiscriminatory basis and clarifies that utilities can operate charging stations for their own vehicles. Overall, the bill seeks to promote the development of EV charging infrastructure while ensuring fair competition and regulatory oversight.