S.B. 278 cleared the Ohio Senate on April 15, a bill that would let private plaintiffs seek punitive damages from cities that pass local gun-safety laws. Columbus and other cities say they will fight the change in court.

A charter-appointed panel is urging big raises for Columbus officials that would take effect in 2030 if City Council signs off.

A Franklin County judge has granted a temporary restraining order that lets two smoke shops sell existing intoxicating‑hemp stock while a legal challenge proceeds. The pause comes after Senate Bill 56 took effect March 20, 2026.

A viral X video shows GOP hopeful Casey Putsch aiming a rifle and taunting Vivek Ramaswamy. Critics called the clip a threat and a Columbus venue scrubbed a planned fundraiser.

A new Ohio dashboard shows roughly 25% of students were chronically absent last year. State officials say weekly school-level data should help communities act faster.

At Denison University's Babcock Lecture in Granville, Mike Pence defended his Jan. 6 actions, praised U.S. military action in Iran and said "President Trump listened."

A Delaware County elections board member has appealed to the Ohio Supreme Court after the county board canceled her voter registration and removed her from the May 5 ballot.

Ohio’s Child Care Cred pilot has 21 employers and 144 children enrolled, but advocates say the $10M, year-long program will reach only a sliver of families who need help. Employers and parents each pay 40% while the state chips in 20%.

The Board of Regents approved modest tuition increases on Tuesday: in‑state undergraduates will see a 1% rise for 2026‑27 while non‑residents face a 3% bump.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost sued a Seneca County contractor, alleging pool and pond projects were abandoned and five customers lost nearly $250,000. The state is seeking restitution and penalties.

Ohio will ban synthetic kratom compounds statewide May 14 while natural kratom leaf remains under review. The rule targets engineered derivatives like 7‑OH.

Columbus City Auditor Megan Kilgore is stepping down to join the private sector, creating a leadership gap in the city's finance office.

House Bill 820 would require radon testing in every Ohio school and back the program with $14 million and homeowner tax credits. The measure also sets a four‑year testing schedule.