Tuscarawas News

State Rep. Brett Hillyer (R-Uhrichsville) and Majority Floor Leader Bill Seitz (R- Cincinnati) yesterday introduced the Getting Rehabilitated Ohioans Working (GROW) Act, aimed at increasing workforce participation and fostering safer and healthier communities and families.

Hillyer emphasized the importance of accountability and support for redemption, stating, "We have a responsibility to hold Ohioans accountable for their actions, but to also offer them the resources and support for redemption and a second chance at success."

Conservative groups, including the CPAC and The Buckeye Institute, praised the Ohio GROW Act for its potential impact on Ohioans. David Safavian of CPAC expressed, "The Ohio GROW Act is a great chance for legislators in Columbus to continue leading on strong, conservative policies that will get Ohioans back to work." Robert Alt from The Buckeye Institute commended the Act as a step forward in offering second chances to rehabilitated individuals while balancing public safety.

Daniel Dew, Executive Director of The TAP Foundation, highlighted the opportunities in Ohio and the need to address workforce barriers. Dew stated, "Ohio is brimming with opportunity... The Ohio GROW Act removes the penalties that employers currently pay for hiring rehabilitated Ohioans and gets our workforce better positioned to be the powerhouse we have been throughout our history."

The GROW Act is set to enact triggers for record sealing upon successful rehabilitation and a period of crime-free behavior, providing employment opportunities for rehabilitated individuals and protecting employers from hiring penalties. The legislation is now awaiting a bill number and House committee assignment.