Representative Melanie Miller Announces Ohio Tourism Pass Program
COLUMBUS—State Representative Melanie Miller (R-Ashland), Chair of the House Arts, Athletics, and Tourism Committee, yesterday announced the introduction of legislation that creates the “Ohio, The Heart of It All Pass” Program, a new statewide initiative that would allow Ohioans and visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy more of Ohio’s thriving tourism industry.
House Bill 732 creates a promotional pass offered by participating partners, and administered by TourismOhio, that can be purchased by Ohio residents as well as visitors. The special pass can be used to visit participating attractions, activities and destinations around the state. It would be offered as a free gift to Ohio residents during 2026, with validity extending into 2027. Beginning in 2027, the pass would be available for purchase at a price determined by TourismOhio, with Ohio residents receiving a discounted rate.
“This legislation is about showcasing the very best of who we are as a state. The ‘Ohio, The Heart of It All’ Pass Program will make it easier for families to explore our communities, support our small businesses, and experience the rich history, culture, and recreation that define Ohio,” said Miller. “By investing in tourism, we are investing in economic growth, workforce development, and the long-term vitality of communities across our state.”
Entities that apply and are approved to become participating partners by TourismOhio would offer special discounts, unique experiences and promotional gifts as part of the pass program.
Tourism plays a huge role in Ohio’s economy. In 2024, visitors to Ohio generated $57 billion in visitor spending plus indirect business sales driven by 242 million visits. These visits generated $4.7 billion in state and local taxes which reduced the burden on community residents by helping to fund infrastructure, education, health, and safety services.
Notably, 67% of individuals report having visited their eventual hometown as a leisure visitor prior to moving there, highlighting the broader economic and workforce benefits of investing in tourism promotion.
House Bill 732 also establishes the “Ohio, The Heart of It All Pass Fund” within the state treasury. Revenues from pass sales, along with gifts, grants, and other contributions, would be used by TourismOhio to administer the program and promote tourism statewide, ensuring transparency and accountability in how funds are managed.
Rep. Miller held a press conference to announce the legislation at the Ohio Statehouse along with Matt MacLaren, Director of Travel and Tourism Policy for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce; Donna Collins, Executive Director of Ohio Arts Council; and Todd Kleismit, Executive Director of the America 250-Ohio Commission.
“Research increasingly shows that experiences impact travel decisions, as travelers prioritize meaningful and memorable moments,” said Melinda Huntley, Executive Director of the Ohio Travel Association. “The Ohio, The Heart of It All pass program merges exclusive experiences with discounts and giveaways, converting this demand into visits, longer stays, and repeat trips. This is not just valuable for Ohioans, it’s good for Ohio businesses, as it will support local businesses and attractions who are part of Ohio’s $57 billion travel economy.”
House Bill 732 will now be assigned to a House committee.
To see Rep. Miller’s full remarks from the press conference, please click here.
