House Committee Passes Bill to Block Interchange Construction
COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) has issued the following statement on the passage of Amended Senate Bill 155, which would repeal a provision of the transportation budget requiring the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to construct certain interstate interchanges:
“This is a significant step forward for the Brunswick community and a victory for the many residents who have worked tirelessly to make their voices heard in the district and in Columbus about the detrimental impact of this interchange. I’d like to thank my fellow committee members for their unanimous support of this legislation. This vote reflects the strong, shared commitment to addressing these concerns, and after years of debate, we are one step closer to a solution. I am optimistic about seeing this bill pass the House before the end of this General Assembly.”
Senate Bill 155 now moves to the House floor for a vote.
COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) and the Ohio Pro-Life Caucus on Friday hosted a meet and greet event in advance of the annual March for Life at the Ohio Statehouse with legislators, pregnancy center leaders, Students for Life groups, and state & national pro-life organizations.
“It is a beautiful day to be celebrating life here at the Statehouse,” said Miller. “Our work protecting the unborn and promoting a culture of life is never done. On days like today, it is important for us to gather, reflect, and reaffirm the significance of what we are doing. Every life matters, and together we continue to advocate for the most vulnerable among us.”
The meet and greet featured remarks and a policy update from Rep. Miller, a legal overview in the state by Attorney General Dave Yost and Mrs. Darlene Yost, as well perspective from Savannah Marten, the leader of the Ohio Coalition of Pregnancy Centers. These Pregnancy Centers provided over $5,000,000 in education and support services for mothers and families in Ohio (Ohio Coalition of Pregnancy Centers, 2022).
The Ohio Pro-Life Caucus was founded by State Rep. Jena Powell (R-Arcanum) in 2021 and exists to advocate for policies to support women and children in the Buckeye State. Rep. Melanie Miller will serve as chair of the Pro-Life Caucus next General Assembly.
On Tuesday, a crisp September morning, I ventured to Columbus, Ohio, to experience the grandeur of the Ohio Statehouse and to sit down with State Representative Melanie Miller, who represents the 67th House District encompassing Ashland County and the western part of Medina County. The Ohio Statehouse, located at 1 Capitol Square in downtown Columbus, is an architectural marvel, rich in history. Built in 1800’s, taking nearly 20 years to complete, it stands as a testament to Ohio’s storied past, with its cornerstone laid on July 4, 1839, and its legislative chambers and Governor’s Office occupied in 1857.
Meeting Representative Miller
Walking through the Statehouse with State Representative Melanie Miller and her Legislative Aid, Mark Everhart, getting to go on the House floor, seeing the behind scenes of the inner workings, I was struck by its historical significance. It was humbling to imagine the many influential figures that shaped the state and nation, including Abraham Lincoln, who had walked these halls and then on Saturday, April 29, 1865, Lincoln’s casket was brought to the Ohio Statehouse where he laid in state in the rotunda. The Statehouse was draped in black crepe for the occasion. Thousands of visitors came throughout the day to honor the fallen President
Meeting with Representative Miller, who is in her second year of her first term, I was eager to learn about her journey and experiences. She started by reflecting on her path to politics, which began far from the Statehouse. “Welcome to my office at the Riffe Center in Columbus,” she said warmly. “It’s been an incredible journey. I’m excited to share what the past year has been like.”
Miller’s path to the Ohio Statehouse was unconventional. Before diving into politics, she competed in pageants, a venture that laid the groundwork for her future in public service. “When I was 16, I won the title of Miss Brook Park. It was my first real taste of community service and public speaking,” she shared. Her involvement in pageants helped her develop skills that would later translate into her political career.
She recounted her initial days in office, highlighting a moving moment during her swearing-in ceremony. “We had a private swearing-in ceremony a few days before the official one. My husband, Matt, held the Bible for me, and Secretary of State Frank LaRose administered the oath in the Rotunda. I was incredibly nervous,” she admitted. This ceremony, held in December before the New Year, was a deeply personal moment for Miller and her supporters.
Navigating the Political Arena
When asked about her first experiences as a state representative, Miller reflected on the challenges and surprises she encountered. “The first few days were eye-opening,” she said. “We voted for the new Speaker of the House, and the process revealed a lot about how things operate here. I realized quickly that integrity and honor are crucial in this role.”
As a new legislator, Miller faced the monumental task of tackling Ohio’s transportation and operating budgets. “The first six months were intense. We dealt with significant issues like the transportation budget and the operating budget,” she explained. Her approach to learning involved observing, taking notes, and seeking mentorship from seasoned colleagues.
Building Confidence and Expertise
Now, nearing the end of her second year, Miller feels more confident in her role. “I definitely feel a lot more comfortable,” she said. “The first year was a steep learning curve, but I’ve gained a better understanding of parliamentary procedures, committee processes, and legislative procedures.”
Miller’s role as Chair of the Technology and Innovation Committee has been particularly fulfilling. “It’s been exciting to dive into technology and innovation,” she noted. “I’m dedicated to educating the legislature about these areas. It’s the future, and we need to be prepared for it.”
One notable opportunity she had was traveling to Israel on a House trade mission. “Israel is incredibly innovative,” Miller said, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. “We saw advancements in various fields, including technology and medicine. One highlight was visiting a company that produces a technology to help people with Parkinson’s. Seeing how this technology is used and then realizing that Ohio is investing in similar innovations was inspiring.”
Legislative Achievements and Challenges
Miller has been actively involved in several committees, including serving as vice chair of Families and Aging, Economic and Workforce Development, and Health Provider Services. Her role as Chair of the Technology and Innovation Committee has allowed her to influence key areas of legislative work.
Reflecting on her legislative achievements, Miller highlighted a few key successes. “One of my proudest moments was getting a baby products tax exemption included in the operating budget,” she said. “It was a way to make Ohio more family-friendly by removing taxes on baby diapers and wipes.”
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Additionally, she worked on ensuring coverage for breast milk fortifiers for premature babies, a cause close to her heart due to her work with pregnancy care centers. “We managed to include this in the budget, which will help families who face the challenge of having a premature baby,” she said.
Miller also pointed out significant reforms in the operating budget, including simplifying the tax code, reducing local business taxes, and increasing funding for education and career tech facilities. “We’ve made strides in many areas, including support for small businesses and expanding educational opportunities,” she stated.
The Never Alone Act: A Milestone in Patient Advocacy
One of Miller’s standout achievements this year is the introduction and progression of House Bill 236, known as the “Never Alone Act.” This bill addresses an near to the heart issue that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, when strict visitor restrictions in hospitals and nursing homes left many patients isolated from their loved ones during critical moments.
Miller, who was deeply moved by personal experiences with these restrictions, explained, “During the pandemic, many people faced the heart-wrenching reality of being separated from their loved ones in their final moments. The Never Alone Act ensures that patients can have an advocate by their side, which is crucial for both emotional support and effective communication with healthcare providers.”
The bill has successfully passed through the Health Provider Services Committee and the Ohio House, and is now under consideration by the Senate Health Committee. Miller expressed optimism about its prospects, stating, “I am hopeful that we can pass this bill before the end of the General Assembly. It represents a crucial step toward ensuring that no one has to face illness alone.”
Modernizing Cosmetology and Barber Licensing
In addition to the Never Alone Act, Miller has also championed the Cosmetology and Barber Modernization Act, a significant reform aimed at updating Ohio’s outdated licensing regulations. This bipartisan effort, led by Miller and Representative Roemer, seeks to streamline the process for entering and practicing in the cosmetology and barbering industries.
Miller noted the excessive and sometimes redundant requirements that have burdened professionals in these fields. “Many individuals have faced obstacles due to outdated regulations that don’t recognize their prior training or experience,” she said. “This bill modernizes those regulations, reduces red tape, and makes it easier for aspiring professionals to enter the industry.”
The bill has passed unanimously in both the House and Senate and was signed into law by Governor DeWine. Set to take effect in October, it includes provisions allowing individuals to start their training at age 16, a significant change that aims to foster early career development in these growing fields.
Local Investments and Community Impact
Miller’s commitment to Ashland County is evident in her success in securing funding for local projects. In the recent operating budget, she brought back $1.9 million for various initiatives, including a new sidewalk on Route 250 for safer pedestrian access, enhancements to the Ashland Theater, and support for Ashland University’s unique programs.
The capital budget also saw a historic allocation of $4.4 million for Ashland County, including $1.1 million for the renovation of Mozelle Hall at the county fairgrounds. This project will transform the space into the Ashland Civic Center, a venue for community events and fairs.
Other notable investments include $200,000 for the Ashland Fire Training Center, $100,000 for the Foundations Community Childcare Center, and support for various smaller community projects. “These investments are about more than just infrastructure; they’re about improving the quality of life for our residents and supporting our local economy,” Miller emphasized.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As she wraps up her first term, Miller reflects on her accomplishments and looks forward to the future. Running unopposed for her second term, she plans to continue her hands-on approach to governance. “My goal is to remain accessible and responsive to the needs of our community,” she said. “We will be hosting a series of coffee and conversation sessions to engage with residents and hear their concerns directly.” “It’s been an incredible experience, and I’m honored to serve,” she said. “There’s still a lot to learn and achieve, but I’m committed to making a positive impact.”
In her role, Miller exemplifies the dedication and perseverance required to navigate the complexities of state politics. Her journey from a young pageant contestant to a state representative is a testament to her commitment to public service and the people of Ohio. As she continues to shape policy and contribute to Ohio’s legislative landscape, her story serves as an inspiration to those who aspire to make a difference through public service.
Miller also invites residents to visit the Ohio Statehouse for a tour or to attend legislative sessions. “The Statehouse is the People’s House, and I encourage everyone to come and see their government in action,” she added.
For those interested in visiting, guided tours are available daily, except on state holidays, with further information available at 614-728-3726. Miller’s office is also reachable by email at rep67@ohiohouse.gov for any inquiries or to subscribe to her e-newsletter for updates on legislation and community news.
COLUMBUS –This week Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 158, legislation to update Cosmetology and Barber Board statues, into law at a ceremony at the Ohio State Fair, announced Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland).
The legislation was introduced by Miller in 2023, and the law will reduce barriers for students getting their barbering and cosmetology licenses. It received unanimous support throughout the legislative process.
“Since the State Boards of Cosmetology and Barbering were combined into one board in 2017, we have seen the need to harmonize the sections of the Ohio Revised Code on Cosmetology and Barbering to match,” said Miller. “I am confident that these and other changes that update our code will serve to encourage the Barber and Cosmetology industry to grow and thrive in Ohio.”
“I’d like to thank my joint sponsor, Rep. Bill Roemer, my colleagues in the Ohio House and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine for signing this forward-thinking legislation into law,” said Miller.
Key provisions of the law include:
Creating a unified barbering/cosmetology school license, to eliminate duplicative applications for facilities that teach both cosmetology and barbering.
Enhancing license reciprocity from other states.
Reducing fines for disciplinary actions.
Establishing temporary pre-examination work permits for barbers.
Lowering the age to apply for a barber license or to start barbering school to 16 years of age
Eliminating a requirement that a barber student complete 200 additional hours of training before re-taking the licensing exam.
Preventing the board from charging interest or penalty fees for unpaid fines.
Creating an independent contractor license, eliminating “shop within a shop” licenses
Creating a process to designate a license as “inactive.”
Allowing the board to independently set the passing score for the barber exam, rather than keeping it in statute.
COLUMBUS— On Friday, June 12, State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) joined the Ohio Association of Meat Processors, the Ohio Department of Agriculture, and other legislators on a tour of Heffelfinger’s Meats, Inc., the largest harvesting facility in Ohio.
The state of Ohio recently announced additional funding for the Ohio Meat Processing Grant Program made possible with support from the 135th Ohio General Assembly in House Bill 33. The $14 million grant will assist meat processing facilities with the acquisition of new and upgraded machinery, other equipment and technology products, and plant construction or expansion for confinement, processing, and refrigeration.
“This is such an important industry in our great state and especially here in Ashland County,” said Miller. “Rick Heffelfinger continues to operate a first-class facility and by investing in Ohio’s meat processors, we are supporting the growth of small business and ensuring our residents have access to safe, locally sourced food.”
Located in Jeromesville, Heffelfinger’s Meats carries both fresh and frozen meats such as Beef, Pork, Bison, Elk, Ohio Goat, Veal, Lamb, Duck, and Free-Range Turkeys. Rick Heffelfinger represents the third generation operating this local landmark, which was established in 1934.
Heffelfinger’s Meats was a recipient of the Ohio Meat Processing Grant in 2022 receiving nearly $227,000. They purchased a generator for the 25,000 square-foot facility in an effort to reduce the impact of power outages.
COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) presented a resolution from the Ohio House Representatives to the Ashland High School Boys Bowling Team, during a recognition ceremony on the House floor. The representative invited the team to recognize their national championship win earlier this summer.
“We are so proud of our young men and their accomplishments representing our community, Ashland city, and the state of Ohio,” said Miller. “What many people may have thought was impossible, they made possible. They never gave up and worked together as a team and pushed each other to be the best versions of themselves.”
The Ashland Arrows defeated Centerville 603-577 to win the United States High School Bowling National Championship in a field of 51 teams from 25 states, including 11 from Ohio. The national title wasn’t the team’s only success this year. They also placed third at the Division I OHSAA Bowling Tournament in March. Another very impressive accomplishment for the young team made up of just two juniors and five sophomores.Miller invited members of the Ashland High School Boys Bowling Team and their families to tour the Statehouse grounds and be recognized during the House session.
To view the resolution presentation, please watch here.
To view the point of personal privilege during House Session, please watch here.
COLUMBUS –The Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 158, joint sponsored by State Reps. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) and Melanie Miller (R- City of Ashland). The legislation, which received unanimous support, updates Cosmetology and Barber Board statutes.
The House accepted the following changes from the Senate:
Amends Senate Bill 89, the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, into the bill.
Specifies that the minimum passing score for the barber examination specified in rules adopted by the Board under the bill cannot exceed 75%
Permits the Secretary of State to appoint and commission police officers for hospitals operated by public hospital agencies or nonprofit hospital agencies, to for-profit hospitals that, before converting to for-profit status, were operated by nonprofit hospital agencies already employing police officers appointed and commissioned by the Secretary of State.
“The updates included in House Bill 158 will reduce barriers for students getting their barbering and cosmetology licenses,” said Roemer. “These changes will lead to better opportunities for barbers, cosmetologists, customers and businesses.”
The Cosmetology and Barber Board was consolidated from two separate boards in 2017, but the law was not adequately adjusted to account for this merger.
“Since the State Boards of Cosmetology and Barbering were combined into one board in 2017, we have seen the need to harmonize the sections of the Ohio Revised Code on Cosmetology and Barbering to match,” said Miller. “I am confident that these and other changes that update our code will serve to encourage the Barber and Cosmetology industry to grow and thrive in Ohio.”
Key provisions of the bill include:
Creating a unified barbering/cosmetology school license, to eliminate duplicative applications for facilities that teach both cosmetology and barbering.
Enhancing license reciprocity from other states.
Reducing fines for disciplinary actions.
Establishing temporary pre-examination work permits for barbers.
Lowering the age to apply for a barber license or to start barbering school to 16 years of age
Eliminating a requirement that a barber student complete 200 additional hours of training before re-taking the licensing exam.
Preventing the board from charging interest or penalty fees for unpaid fines.
Creating an independent contractor license, eliminating “shop within a shop” licenses
Creating a process to designate a license as “inactive.”
Allowing the board to independently set the passing score for the barber exam, rather than keeping it in statute.
The legislation does not change the current training hour requirements for initial licensure.
House Bill 158 awaits Governor DeWine’s signature.
COLUMBUS- The Ohio House of Representatives today unanimously passed House Bill 236, the Never Alone Act, announced bill sponsors, State Reps. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) and Beth Lear (R-Galena). The bill ensures every patient has access to an advocate to be with them in a hospital, nursing home, or other congregate care setting – especially during a health emergency.
“Over the last three years, we have gained heightened awareness of the need to protect the rights of a patient to have access to a loved one or advocate to act on behalf of their best interest while in a hospital or care facility,” said Miller. “The Never Alone Act ensures that everyone has someone who can speak for them, when they do not have a voice.”
Specifically, the Never Alone Act:
Requires a congregate care setting to inform a patient or resident that the patient or resident may designate an individual to serve as an advocate and to provide the patient or resident the opportunity to make a designation.
Prohibits a congregate care setting from 1: denying a patient or resident access to an advocate and 2: prohibiting an advocate from being physically present with a patient or resident.
Prohibits a political subdivision, public official, or state agency from issuing an order or rule, or enforcing on behalf of the federal government a federal order or rule, that would require a care setting to violate the bill’s provisions.
Requires the Department of Health to create a Never Alone information sheet and each congregate care setting to provide each patient or resident with a copy at the time of admission.
“The Never Alone Act is a patient and resident-centered bill. Our goal was to protect Ohioans when they are most vulnerable and ensure they have access to a loved one to hold their hand or provide comfort,” said Lear. “The isolation that caused our citizens to suffer and die alone during COVID should never be allowed to happen again.”
The Never Alone Act now moves to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.
COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) invited and presented a commendation from the Ohio House Representatives to Ashland Police Officer Soren Osicka, during a recognition ceremony on the House floor. Miller also acknowledged Ashland Police Chief David Lay (30+ years), Captain Craig Kiley (24 years), and Lieutenant Aaron Klein (17 years) for their distinguished service in law enforcement to the Ashland community during the legislative session.
“Today, as we remember Police Week, just being this last week, we have a very special young man that we want to honor today, Officer Soren Osicka for his heroic actions and acting swiftly when there was an emergency,” Miller said.
Officer Soren Osicka is 23 years old and became a police officer less than a year ago. After about five months on the job, he saved a 3-year-old girl’s life by administering CPR after she hit her head and stopped breathing.
“On behalf of the Ohio House of Representatives, myself, and our Speaker of the House, Mr. Jason Stephens, we would like to honor you with a commendation from the House of Representatives to recognize you and your heroic efforts.”
Including Osicka, Miller invited members of the Ashland Police Department to the Statehouse to tour the grounds and be recognized during the House session to be recognized for police week and their service to their community.
To view the commendation presentation, please watch here.
To view the point of personal privilege during House Session, please watch here.
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State Representative Melanie Miller is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 67th House District, which includes all of Ashland County and the western portion of Medina County.
COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will invest the $350 million Strategic Community Investment Fund into projects throughout Ohio, announced State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland).
This one-time funding will be administered to statewide, regional, and local projects, with almost $1.3 million which will directly serve Ashland and Medina Counties.
“I am delighted to see these projects coming to the 67th District,” said Miller. “These investments in our community will have an impact for years to come.”
Miller championed several provisions that will positively impact Ashland and Medina Counties:
$1,000,000 to modernize the Ashland County Fairgrounds and build a new Mozelle Hall; and
$200,000 to build The Davy McClure Outdoor Education Shelter in the Ashland County Park District, creating an educational resource for the community;
$36,834 to install tornado sirens at the Homer Township Community Center;
$30,000 to renovate the Rowsburg Community Center, for residents to gather together;
$25,000 to expand sidewalks in Hayesville, connecting the southern portion of the village.
In addition to these local investments, Sub. House Bill 2 also included additional statewide capital investments of:
$600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
$400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program;
$397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
$250 million for local jail construction across Ohio.
The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to dedicate this excess toward projects that will move Ohio forward.
This funding will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.
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State Representative Melanie Miller is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 67th House District, which includes all of Ashland County and the western portion of Medina County.
Joe Lyons •
November 19, 2024
“This is such an important industry in our great state and especially here in Ashland County,” said Miller. “Rick Heffelfinger continues to operate a first-class facility and by investing in Ohio’s meat processors, we are supporting the growth of small business and ensuring our residents have access to safe, locally sourced food.”
