The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to enhance the governance and operational framework of educational service centers in Ohio. A significant addition is the new section 3311.052, which establishes the structure and election process for governing boards, ensuring that each board member is elected by the electors of their respective school district. The bill also introduces provisions for filling vacancies and maintains representation for school districts that terminate their primary service agreements until the end of the current term. Additionally, it allows for the combination of up to five adjoining educational service centers into a single entity, streamlining governance and improving service delivery.

Moreover, the bill outlines new requirements for primary service agreements, including a deduction of $6.50 per student from state operating subsidies, with the option for districts to pay more if approved by a majority. It also clarifies compliance requirements for educational service centers to be exempt from competitive bidding for personnel-based services and establishes a framework for sharing resources among districts. The bill introduces definitions and procedures for nominating candidates for governing boards, including the requirement for a nominating petition signed by qualified electors. Several outdated sections of the Revised Code are repealed to ensure the bill's provisions apply only to new or renewed service agreements after its effective date.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 755.16, 3311.05, 3311.053, 3311.0510, 3313.01, 3313.376, 3313.843, 3313.845, 3313.846, 3313.848, 3313.849, 3317.11, 3319.80, 3326.45, 3513.255, 3513.256, 3313.847, 3311.054, 3311.056, 3311.057, 3311.059