Fellow Ohioans,
It continues to be an honor to serve as your State Representative for Summit County. This month, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with community partners, visit with students and educators, meet with local businesses, and participate in efforts to strengthen both civic education and public infrastructure. These experiences reinforce why it’s so important we continue working together to move Ohio forward.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We are here to serve you.
Sincerely,
Bill Roemer
State Representative
District 31
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Sponsor Testimony for House Bill 814
On April 8, 2026, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Northeast Ohio had met the federal requirements for redesignation from non-attainment to attainment for ozone emissions, marking a major milestone in the region’s effort to improve air quality as key pollutants dropped more than 40% in five years. In response to the April announcement, House Bill 814 requires the Ohio EPA, within 90 days of final federal redesignation to attainment status, to formally request the elimination of the E-Check program in Cuyahoga, Summit, Lorain, Geauga, Medina, Lake, and Portage counties.
House Bill 814 ensures Ohio’s response aligns with current federal air quality determinations and provides a clear statutory pathway for eliminating a program that has outlived its original purpose in Northeast Ohio. With attainment status now recognized at the federal level, it is appropriate for the State of Ohio to begin the process of phasing out E-Check in the affected counties.
House Bill 750 - Legislation to Expand PACE Program + PACE Rocky Knoll Visit
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I had the opportunity to visit a Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) site with reporter Jonathan Walsh, to show an alternative to the substandard care often associated with nursing homes. PACE is a fully integrated care model designed to serve older adults who meet a nursing home level of care but prefer to remain in their homes. It brings together an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals who coordinate and deliver all needed medical and social services—from primary care and prescriptions to transportation and adult day services. I observed dedicated care teams working closely with participants in a setting that is not only clinically effective but also welcoming and community-oriented. More importantly, I had the opportunity to speak directly with participants—individuals who, without PACE, would likely be in institutional care settings, but are instead able to remain in their homes, maintain their independence, and stay connected to their communities.
Immaculate Heart of Mary School Visit
 I was pleased to speak with fourth-grade students at Immaculate Heart of Mary School as a follow-up to their statehouse visit on May 7th.
I was able to explain how a bill becomes a law and answer many insightful questions. I wish them continued success in all they do!
Council on State and Local Taxation (COST) / Ohio Chamber of Commerce Midwest Regional Meeting
I was featured on a panel with Senate Ways and Means Chairman Louis Blessing and Assistant Tax Commissioner and Chief Counsel Sarah O’Leary. We discussed SALT (state and local tax) issues, policy priorities, commercial activity tax, property taxes, and the penny shortage, which my bill, House Bill 737, addresses.
Soap Box Derby / Parade Marshal
 Over 500 students from Northeast Ohio participated in the 16th annual Gravity Racing Challenge at Derby Downs in Akron this year. I championed House Bill 423 of the 134th General Assembly, which designated the All-American Soap Box Derby as Ohio’s official gravity racing program. I also voted to appropriate over a million dollars to the International Soap Box Derby through the state budget! This event brings our community together each year, and I'm thankful we can support it at a state level.
The University of Akron Swim and Dive Team
 I was honored to recognize the Akron Swimming and Diving Team, which claimed its fifth consecutive MAC Title, its 12th in the past 13 years. Elizabeth Noble was named the MAC Diver of the Year and was named to the All-MAC Second Team. Akron saw Helena Lalkovic, Felicia Klintemar, Claire Cox, Avery Knight, Callie Parkes, and Ada Szwabinska named to the All-MAC First Team. Along with Noble, the Zips saw Elle Couture, Martyna Piesko, and Madelyn Bosler named to the All-MAC Second Team. Congratulations to all, and GO ZIPS!
Ohio National Guard Capability Demonstration
 I recently joined several of my colleagues, the Ohio Adjutant General, and the Ohio National Guard at Rickenbacker Airport for a unique demonstration of their capabilities, including equipment, soldiers, and airmen. It included briefings from senior leaders, hands-on interaction with equipment and technology, and time among our soldiers and airmen who serve the State of Ohio and its communities.
Memorial Day
 I was honored to join the Richfield community this Memorial Day, where I spoke with residents, participated in the parade, and delivered the key note speech as we remembered and honored the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary this year, we must recognize the military members who have fought for our freedom since 1776. Thank you to those who have served past, present, and in the future!
Kent State University Ribbon-Cutting Event
 I was joined by Senator Roegner to present a commendation at the special reception and ribbon-cutting celebration for “Ohioans in Space: The Carl Walz Spacesuit from the Kent State University Museum." Honoring Ohio’s enduring leadership in innovation and discovery, this special display will showcase the spacesuit worn aboard the International Space Station by NASA astronaut and Kent State alumnus Carl E. Walz, ’77, and is presented in partnership with the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board.
Ohio, The Heart of Fishing!
I was happy to recently partake in one of my favorite pastime activities, fishing!
I fished the Sandusky River in Fremont, Ohio, which is close to many of Ohio’s beautiful lakes, shorelines, and outdoor recreation opportunities. These destinations draw hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. I think it's critical to continue to preserve and enhance our state’s natural water resources for public use and enjoyment, boosting tourism and our local economies.
Massillon Washington Boys Basketball
 I recently recognized Massillon’s men’s basketball team for winning the DII OHSAA State Championship. Massillon’s last appearance in a basketball state championship game was in 1937, and that team was coached by legendary Paul Brown. They finished the season 27-1. I was joined by my Legislative Aide, Robert Gray, a Massillon graduate. Way to go, Tigers!
Thank you for your continued trust and support as we work to strengthen our communities, support our students, and honor the values that have shaped our state and nation. If you ever need assistance with a state issue or have feedback on legislative matters, please reach out to my office.
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