Columbus, OH — Ohio Rep. Larry Householder (R-Glenford) was expelled from the Ohio House of Representatives today.
From the outset, the Ohio Environmental Council (OEC) Action Fund was strongly opposed to House Bill 6 (HB 6), legislation that traded Ohio’s clean energy standards for nuclear and coal bailouts, setting us back in the fight against climate change. When news broke last summer that then House Speaker Householder and four additional co-conspirators were arrested in a $61M federal racketeering case related to the passage of HB 6, we called for its immediate repeal and for resignation of all those involved.
The following quote can be attributed in full or part to Heather Taylor-Miesle, Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund President:
“The indictment of Rep. Householder, as well as the guilty pleas by two co-conspirators and the dark money group associated with the scandal, highlight the culture of corruption that has eroded the people’s trust in our democratic institutions and elected leaders. This corruption, which led to the passage of HB 6, will continue to have a negative impact on the lives of Ohioans.
“The worst parts of HB 6 remain on the books, including bailouts for two polluting coal plants and repeal of Ohio’s clean energy standards. While we applaud today’s vote to expel Rep. Householder, we call on Ohio lawmakers to immediately repeal HB 6 in full. Ohio has the opportunity to be a leader in the clean energy economy, and repealing the entirety of HB 6 is where it must start.”
###
The Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund is committed to protecting and enhancing the environment and the health of all Ohio communities. We will continue to fight for Ohio’s access to clean water, healthy air, vibrant public lands and a strong democracy.
Press Inquiries? Please contact ebacha@theoec.org