Ohio House Passes Reps. Fischer, Lorenz Legislation Creating Universal Regulatory Sandbox Program

COLUMBUS, OH - State Representatives Tex Fischer (R-Canfield) and Brian Lorenz (R-Powell) today announced the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 176, legislation to create the Universal Regulatory Sandbox Program.

Through House Bill 176, the structured "sandbox" environment would grant approved businesses limited access to the markets in Ohio to temporarily test their products or services, without the burden of licensure or authorization that would typically be required.

"This bill creates a first-of-its-kind universal regulatory sandbox, cutting outdated red tape and giving Ohio entrepreneurs the flexibility to innovate, test new ideas, and bring them to market faster," said Rep. Lorenz.

"This is about making Ohio more competitive and attractive for outside investment." said Rep. Fischer. "We want our state to be a magnet for innovation and entrepreneurship. House Bill 176 will create an environment for new ideas to grow, while making government work better for businesses and consumers alike."

This legislation sets up a regulatory relief office within the Common Sense Initiative Office that is responsible for administering this program and acting as a liaison between private businesses and state agencies to identify laws or regulations that could be waived or suspended under the program.

Additional provisions of the bill include:

• A formal application process outlining required materials and eligibility criteria for participation
• A structured review and evaluation process for applicants
• Defined limits and guardrails on participant demonstrations and offerings
• Consumer protection requirements, including mandatory disclosures prior to transactions
• Recordkeeping standards to ensure transparency and accountability

Approved participants may operate within the sandbox for an initial 24-month period, with the option of requesting for up to five additional 12-month extensions.

The bill now advances to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.