The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to provide political subdivisions, special districts, and state institutions of higher education with the option to apply the Prevailing Wage Law to public improvement projects, while also increasing the threshold amount that triggers this law for certain state public improvements. It removes previous mandates for compliance with the Prevailing Wage Law for all capital improvements financed under specified chapters and introduces new provisions that allow for the construction and improvement of correctional facilities without referencing the Prevailing Wage Law. This aims to offer more flexibility for local governments and institutions regarding wage requirements on public projects.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and provisions related to the financing and operation of sports facilities and port authority educational and cultural performing arts facilities, including the removal of the requirement for contracts to ensure prevailing wage rates for laborers and mechanics. It establishes guidelines for the creation of airport development districts and outlines the powers of lake facilities authorities and special improvement districts, emphasizing their ability to manage properties and engage in construction projects. The bill also clarifies governance structures for special improvement districts and adjusts monetary limits for public improvement projects, ensuring that the definitions and thresholds remain relevant to current economic conditions while streamlining processes related to public facilities and infrastructure improvements.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 164.07, 307.022, 307.671, 307.673, 307.674, 307.696, 308.21, 351.06, 353.03, 1506.44, 1710.02, 4115.03, 4115.034, 4115.04, 4115.06, 5540.03, 6117.012, 6121.061