Ohio House to vote later today on creation of nonprofit JobsOhio

COLUMBUS (AP) — The GOP-led Ohio House is considering Gov. John Kasich’s new private economic development board, though some lawmakers are concerned about its transparency and oversight.

Legislation expected to come to a House vote later today creates a framework for JobsOhio, a nine-member board that includes Kasich as its chair.

The nonprofit entity is intended to eventually replace the Ohio Department of Development. The Republican governor has criticized that agency for being too slow and bureaucratic to keep up with businesses.

The bill calls for JobsOhio to do much of its work in private. Democratic lawmakers complain that the panel would lack accountability.

JobsOhio would produce an annual report detailing the names and salaries of staff members. An independent certified public accountant also would perform a yearly financial audit.