Ohio's commitment to election integrity just got a financial boost, according to Secretary of State Frank LaRose. Following the Ohio General Assembly's passage of the state's biennial operating budget, LaRose has been vocal about the implications for elections, issuing a statement that underscores his approval of the legislature's focus on strengthening the state's election infrastructure.
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose's statement, shared yesterday, made it clear, "This budget bill represents one of the biggest victories for election integrity in Ohio’s history, and I encourage the Governor to sign these reforms into law," as he pointed out the legislation's commitment to investigating, and prosecuting election crimes. The new budget includes provisions that solidify the Election Integrity Unit’s role within the government by making it a statutory duty, a move that LaRose seems to support wholeheartedly. However, the Secretary's praise did not stop there, as he highlighted the creation of a new Election Integrity Commission intended to uphold election and campaign finance laws more effectively.
Another notable component of the budget is an adjustment that facilitates the recruitment of retired public employees as poll workers without risking their pension benefits. LaRose sees this as a positive step towards bolstering the front lines of the state's democracy, according to the press release from his office.
The acknowledgment from LaRose reaches across legislative leadership, from Senate President McColley to House Speaker Huffman and the finance committee chairs. But, it was Senator Theresa Gavarone who received a special nod for her leadership, "I commend Senate President McColley, House Speaker Huffman, the finance committee chairs and especially Senator Theresa Gavarone for their leadership on this budget bill," Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said. His choice of words suggests optimism for the future, implying that Ohioans should expect an enhancement to the election process that is already considered the "gold standard."
As Ohio gears up for future elections, the effects of the newly passed budget on election integrity and the administration of voting processes remain to be seen. Still, one thing is clear: there is significant legislative intent to safeguard the integrity of Ohio’s elections.
