News Summary Ohio is set to implement significant changes to public construction laws, including streamlined procurement processes and new financial security measures for contractors. The updates will impact public projects statewide, enhancing efficiency and accountability. Key provisions include new regulations for construction manager at risk and design-build projects, and requirements for timely payments. Additionally, legislation related to building inspector appeals, nonprofit organizations, and mental health service governance will also take effect. Stakeholders can attend a webinar for more information on these upcoming changes. Columbus, Ohio – Major Overhaul of Public Construction Laws Scheduled for September 30, 2025 Significant changes to Ohio’s public construction laws are set to come into effect on September 30, 2025, impacting how public projects, including libraries, are constructed and managed across the state. These updates aim to streamline procurement processes and enhance accountability in the public construction sector. Key Changes and Impacts The new legislation will introduce a streamlined procurement process for construction manager at risk (CMR) and design-build projects valued at under $4 million. This is expected to simplify the bidding process, making it easier for smaller projects to move forward efficiently. In addition, new requirements regarding construction retainage and payments will be established, which could provide more financial security for contractors and subcontractors involved in public construction projects. These changes aim to reduce delays and ensure timely payments throughout the construction lifecycle. To assist stakeholders in understanding the new regulations, a webinar presented by Laura Bowman will offer an overview of the key changes. This educational session is intended to prepare public entities and construction professionals for the transition to the updated laws. Broader Legislative Context The public construction law updates are part of a series of legislative changes signed by Governor Mike DeWine that will take effect on the same date. These measures reflect a comprehensive effort to improve various sectors across Ohio. One notable change is SB 6, which requires that appeals against building inspector decisions be submitted within one business day. Additionally, hearings concerning these appeals must occur within five business days, aiming to create a more expedient resolution process. Another significant piece of legislation, SB 100, provides an exemption for nonprofit agricultural membership organizations from state insurance regulations, potentially easing operational burdens on such organizations. Furthermore, SB 114 implements a ban on law enforcement agencies from instituting arrest or citation quotas, promoting fairness in policing practices. Another update, SB 138, revises governance for local Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health (ADAMH) service boards, enhancing accountability measures to improve service delivery in mental health and addiction support. Additionally, SB 147 alters solid waste and construction debris management laws, granting counties more authority over waste management processes, which could lead to more localized and effective waste handling solutions. Other legislation, such as HB 64, lowers the qualifying age for discounted hunting and fishing licenses from 66 to 65, while HB 96 implements cybersecurity frameworks for public entities and modifies age requirements for driver education programs. Conclusion The upcoming changes to Ohio’s public construction laws are designed to improve operational efficiency, accountability, and safety across various sectors. By streamlining processes and introducing new regulations, the state aims to enhance the effectiveness of public construction projects and bolster the overall governance of related activities. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Pedestrian Fatality Raises Legal Concerns in San Antonio Injury Report: Vehicle Crash on Munson Way Highlights Legal Concerns Road Rage Incident Involves Ohio Congressman and Physician Additional Resources JD Supra: Webinar on New Ohio Construction Laws Peak of Ohio: New Certification Rules for Building Standards WTOL: New Laws in Ohio Effective September 2025 Encyclopedia Britannica: Ohio Construction Laws Google Search: Ohio New Construction Laws 2025
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