At the Ohio House this week, sponsor testimony was heard on House Bill 271, legislation that would establish a grant and loan program to coordinate and expand access to natural gas. The program would be funded by excess revenue in the Oil and Gas Well Fund and/or future appropriations made by the General Assembly. Businesses, non-profits, and local governments would be eligible to apply for funding. Also this week, the House passed House Bill 201, legislation designed to prohibit local governments from banning or blocking consumers from obtaining natural gas hookups. The OMA worked with the bill sponsor and other interested parties to ensure the intent of the bill matched its language. The OMA will continue to follow both bills, which will be discussed at the OMA’s May 27 Energy Committee meeting. Register here. 5/6/2021