Significant Overhaul of Ohio’s Public Construction Laws

Columbus, Ohio – Major updates to Ohio’s public construction laws are set to take effect on September 30, 2025, significantly impacting various sectors, particularly libraries across the state. This legislative overhaul aims to enhance both efficiency and accountability in the public construction sector.

Among the key changes, new streamlined procurement processes will be implemented for construction manager at risk (CMR) and design-build projects valued at under $4 million. The adjustments are expected to simplify the bidding process, allowing public agencies to navigate construction projects more effectively and efficiently.

Additionally, the revised laws will introduce new requirements regarding construction retainage and payments. These stipulations are designed to ensure timely and fair compensation for contractors and subcontractors working on public projects. The legislative changes are seen as a vital step to improving the working conditions and financial stability of construction professionals operating in Ohio.

To provide further insight into the new laws, a webinar led by Laura Bowman will offer an overview of the critical changes. This session will be an essential resource for stakeholders looking to understand how the upcoming legislation will influence their operations.

Beyond the public construction laws, a series of bills signed by Governor Mike DeWine will come into effect on the same date, creating a wave of legislative changes that affect various sectors throughout the state. For instance, Senate Bill 6 mandates that appeals against building inspector decisions be filed within one business day, and hearings must occur within five business days. This rapid response requirement is intended to expedite the decision-making process in construction-related matters.

Senate Bill 100 exempts nonprofit agricultural membership organizations from certain state insurance regulations, thereby reducing administrative burdens on these groups and allowing them to allocate more resources toward their core missions. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 114 prohibits law enforcement agencies from implementing quotas for arrests or citations, a move aimed at fostering transparency and ethical policing practices.

Additionally, changes put forth in Senate Bill 138 will modify the governance structure for local Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health (ADAMH) service boards, reinforcing accountability measures to improve services for residents in need. Senate Bill 147 will revamp solid waste and construction debris management laws, granting counties greater control over waste management, which is expected to enhance local environmental practices.

Other notable updates include House Bill 64, which lowers the eligible age for discounted hunting and fishing licenses from 66 to 65, and House Bill 96, which mandates cybersecurity frameworks for public entities while adjusting age requirements for driver education programs to modernize the regulatory environment.

All these changes are part of Ohio’s commitment to improving processes across public sectors while ensuring that safety and accountability standards are upheld. Stakeholders, including construction firms, public agencies, and residents, have expressed keen interest in how these legislative adjustments will unfold and the impact they will have on their respective areas.

As the September 30 deadline approaches, Ohioans and those involved in public construction projects are urged to stay informed and prepare for the changes ahead.