The bill, titled the Ohio Employment First and Greater Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act, seeks to phase out the subminimum wage for individuals with physical or mental disabilities while introducing a nonrefundable tax credit for purchases made from nonprofit corporations that employ these individuals. It amends various sections of the Revised Code and establishes new definitions and requirements for "qualified vendors." Key provisions include the prohibition of new licenses for subminimum wage employment, a mandate for employers to submit transition plans to eliminate subminimum wages within five years, and the establishment of an employment first task force to enhance coordination among state agencies in promoting competitive, integrated employment opportunities.

Additionally, the bill clarifies employee rights regarding wage and hour regulations, ensuring confidentiality for individuals filing complaints about wage law violations. It introduces penalties for anti-retaliation violations and allows for legal actions against employers without requiring employees to exhaust administrative remedies first. The bill also repeals several existing sections of the Revised Code related to wage laws and employment of individuals with disabilities, reinforcing the state's commitment to improving employment outcomes for this population through enhanced financial incentives and regulatory support.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4111.06, 4111.14, 5122.28, 5123.022, 5123.023, 5123.87, 5747.98, 5751.98