The bill amends sections 121.95 and 121.951 of the Revised Code to update the definition of "regulatory restriction" and clarify that certain rule changes do not eliminate a restriction. Specifically, the definition of "regulatory restriction" is revised to mean any part of a rule that requires or prohibits an action. Additionally, the bill removes the previous language that specified which words indicated a regulatory restriction, such as "shall," "must," and "prohibit." It also introduces a requirement that removing or replacing these words does not eliminate a regulatory restriction unless it results in the removal of a requirement or prohibition from the rule.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for state agencies to reduce regulatory restrictions by 30% by June 30, 2025, with specific interim targets. Agencies must prepare and submit reports detailing their progress in reducing these restrictions, including a revised inventory of regulatory restrictions. The bill also stipulates that agencies cannot adopt new regulatory restrictions unless they simultaneously remove two or more existing ones, and it prohibits merging restrictions to satisfy this requirement. Overall, the bill aims to streamline administrative rulemaking and reduce regulatory burdens.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 121.95, 121.951