Representative Brian Lorenz Introduces Legislation to Improve Transparency on County Boards of Elections

State Representative Brian Lorenz (R-Powell) today introduced legislation to address potential conflicts that can arise during votes of county boards of elections.

The legislation works to close a gap in Ohio law by providing a clear process to manage situations where a board member may face a conflict of interest.

The bill accomplishes two key reforms:

• It allows county political party central committees to appoint an alternate member to serve on the county board of elections when needed.
• It prohibits any member of the State Central Committee from simultaneously serving on a county board of elections.

Representative Lorenz said the proposal is intended to strengthen transparency while maintaining fairness in election administration.

"As a legislator, it is my responsibility to identify areas in the Ohio Revised Code where we can improve transparency and strengthen public confidence in our institutions," said Lorenz. "This legislation provides a practical solution when potential conflicts arise while ensuring decisions made by our boards of elections remain fair and equitable. It is a commonsense reform that benefits both Republicans and Democrats across Ohio."

The legislation was developed in consultation with the leadership of the Delaware County Republican Party.

The bill was filed with the Ohio House Clerk's Office on Monday afternoon.