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The General Government Committee meeting began with a roll call confirming a quorum, and the minutes from the previous meeting were approved. Testimony was limited to five minutes per witness, followed by questions from committee members. The first agenda item was House Concurrent Resolution 19, presented by Representative Fisher. The resolution urges the state's congressional delegation to affirm state authority over election processes and campaign finance policies. Fisher highlighted the importance of state control in light of federal efforts that could undermine state laws, clarifying that the resolution is not against federal authority but seeks to reaffirm the balance of power. Next, House Bill 582 was introduced by Representatives Plummer and Young, aiming to modernize the funeral home industry by updating definitions and clarifying regulations for embalmers, funeral directors, and crematoriums. Key provisions include standardizing cremation authorization forms and strengthening documentation requirements without creating new licensing categories or imposing additional education requirements. Committee members raised questions about contested cremation forms and the removal of witness signatures, with sponsors explaining the bill's intent to streamline processes. The meeting then addressed House Bill 308 and Senate Bill 63, both in their third hearings. Chad Enos from Honest Elections Project Action testified against ranked choice voting (RCV), arguing it complicates the electoral process and has been rejected by several states. He emphasized the need for clarity in Ohio's election laws. Committee members questioned the implications of RCV and the rationale behind the proposed ban, with Enos advocating for the traditional voting system. Concerns were raised about penalizing municipalities, particularly Cleveland Heights, for wanting to implement RCV. Representative Brian Bailey questioned the fiscal implications and potential for RCV to enhance representation for diverse communities. Witnesses argued that studies do not support the idea that RCV increases diversity and often leads back to traditional candidates. Mia Lewis from Common Cause Ohio and other witnesses provided opposing testimony, arguing that Senate Bill 63 stifles local reform efforts and undermines local governance. They emphasized the need for municipalities to have the autonomy to decide on their voting systems. Denise Riley from Rank the Vote Ohio argued that RCV can increase voter turnout and confidence, countering claims of administrative errors associated with the system. Several witnesses, including Pierre Wolfe and Debbie Schaffner, criticized the bill for imposing financial penalties on communities exploring electoral reforms and emphasized the importance of allowing public discussion on electoral methods. They highlighted the potential benefits of RCV, such as enhancing voter engagement and reducing polarization. The meeting included discussions on the mechanics of RCV, concerns about misinformation, and the implications of Senate Bill 63 on local governance and voter rights. Witnesses expressed a strong sentiment for allowing local communities to decide on their voting systems without state interference. The meeting concluded with an invitation for additional testimony, and several participants expressed their opposition to Senate Bill 63, advocating for the exploration of RCV in Ohio. The committee members were reminded to review the written testimony submitted for the bill, and the meeting adjourned with no further business.