Friends and Neighbors,
June has been a full and productive month here in Columbus. I wanted to take a moment to share some updates on the work we have been doing on your behalf — from major legislation heading to the Governor’s desk to meaningful investments secured for our communities in the capital budget. We also had a wonderful time welcoming visitors to the Statehouse this month, and I hope you enjoy this update.
Legislative Update:
House Bill 170 Heads to the Governor's Desk
Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel on the House floor during passage of H.B. 170.
I am pleased to share that House Bill 170 — legislation I co-sponsored to establish Ohio’s regulatory framework for carbon capture and storage — has completed its journey through the General Assembly and is headed to Governor DeWine for his signature.
This bill places Ohio in the driver’s seat when it comes to regulating carbon dioxide sequestration in Class VI underground injection wells through the Department of Natural Resources. The bill creates a self-sustaining financial structure funded through permit fees and storage charges, and establishes a county-level Carbon Storage Host Community Fund that directs dollars directly to host counties — for local infrastructure, public safety, education, and more. I’m proud to have championed this legislation and look forward to seeing it signed into law.
House Natural Resources Committee:
A Busy Stretch at the Committee Table
 Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel and Rep. Kevin Ritter presenting H.C.R. 40 before the Natural Resources Committee.
Our Natural Resources Committee had a productive few weeks heading into summer recess. Here are a few highlights:
Sub. S.B. 219 – Oil & Gas Regulatory Reforms. We passed out Substitute Senate Bill 219, which strengthens Ohio’s oil and gas regulatory framework — including protections for the Oil and Gas Well Fund, a cleaner Road Use Maintenance Agreement framework, and updated permit review timelines for more complex drilling projects.
S.B. 223 – Veteran-Friendly Legislation. We also passed out Senate Bill 223, an important piece of legislation supporting Ohio’s veterans community. I was glad to see it advance with strong support.
H.C.R. 40 – Ohio River Restoration. The committee passed House Concurrent Resolution 40, which I co-sponsored alongside Rep. Kevin Ritter of Marietta, urging Congress to pass the Ohio River Restoration Program Act. The resolution passed out of committee 13 to 0 and then passed the full House with broad bipartisan support.
“The Ohio River is a vital resource for Ohio and our region, serving more than 25 million people across 14 states. I am grateful we could come together in a bipartisan way to send a message to Congress to support vital water quality improvements, habitat restoration, invasive species management, flood resilience, and expanded recreational access on the waters of the Ohio River Basin," said Robb Blasdel.
District Investment:
Capital Budget Delivers for the 79th District
Earlier this month, I was proud to vote in support of Ohio’s Capital Budget — a nearly $4 billion two-year capital improvements package. I successfully advocated for projects in both Carroll and Columbiana counties that will make a real difference for residents across our district.
“Securing these investments for the 79th District is a reflection of the vision our communities have shared with my office. In Columbiana and Carroll County, these projects will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of our residents. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to advocate for these projects, and I look forward to seeing these improvements take shape across our communities," Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel.
The capital budget was signed into law by Governor DeWine on June 15, 2026.
From the Statehouse:
Welcoming Constituents to Columbus
Constituents from the 79th District visiting the Ohio Statehouse.
One of the things I enjoy most about this job is welcoming constituents to the Statehouse. Seeing the people we represent walk through those doors — and getting a firsthand look at where the work happens — is always a great reminder of who we are here to serve.
This month, we had the pleasure of hosting visitors from across the district, and it was a wonderful opportunity to share what goes on here in Columbus and hear directly from the people of the 79th. If you have ever wanted to come down and see the Statehouse for yourself, I would love to have you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office to arrange a visit.
Warm regards,
State Representative Monica Robb Blasdel
Rep79@ohiohouse.gov
614-466-8022
77 South High Street, Floor 11, Columbus OH, 43215
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