What you need to know about Ohio Politics and Policy
Sen. Chris Widener (R-Springfield) said at a Controlling Board meeting that Senate Republicans on the panel will be more reluctant to support contracts with non-Ohio firms in the future, saying the use of Ohio-based businesses is a key way to improve the state’s economy. While he recognized two agencies – the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Youth Services – for using more Ohio firms, he said other departments seem to be reluctant to focus on in-state firms. “Lawmaker Pushes Agency Officials For More Use Of Ohio-Based Firms,” Gongwer Report, June 11, 2012And it’s no wonder the administration doesn’t like legislative attempts to encourage in-state purchasing. At the same June 11 meeting, the majority of contracts state agencies asked Controlling Board to approve–21 of 39–involved an out of state firm.