Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

Ohio House Bill HB301

Introduced
10/18/23  
Report Pass
2/7/24  
Engrossed
4/24/24  
Report Pass
6/26/24  
Enrolled
6/26/24  
Passed
7/24/24  

Caption

Regards Nonprofit Corporation Law and dissolving corporations

Impact

The amendments proposed in HB301 provide a clearer structure for dissolving nonprofit organizations, aiming to streamline the process while protecting the interests of creditors and the public. By explicitly outlining the responsibilities and limitations of directors during the dissolution process, the bill seeks to foster accountability within nonprofit organizations. Additionally, the introduction of provisions that govern good standing and the liabilities incurred by directors may stabilize the operational environment for nonprofits in Ohio, clarifying the legal ramifications of their actions during and after dissolution.

Summary

House Bill 301 aims to amend several sections of the Ohio Revised Code related to nonprofit corporations and the procedures governing their dissolution. This bill makes substantive changes to the Nonprofit Corporation Law, specifically addressing how corporations can dissolve, manage their assets during dissolution, and clarify the responsibilities of directors and officers. It introduces new provisions regarding the liabilities of directors in the context of distributing assets and the dissolution process, providing a clearer legal framework for these organizations.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB301 appears largely positive among proponents who argue that the bill modernizes Ohio's nonprofit laws. Supporters emphasize the clarity and improved governance standards it sets for nonprofit organizations. However, there may be dissent among stakeholders who fear that the changes could inadvertently create more obstacles for nonprofits in distress or complicate the dissolution process. As nonprofit organizations are essential pillars in many communities, their concern over potential liabilities and administrative burdens is notable.

Contention

A key point of contention in the discussions around HB301 centers on the balance between accountability and flexibility for nonprofit directors. Some critics express concern that the increased liabilities for directors could deter individuals from serving on nonprofit boards due to fear of personal responsibility in times of financial distress. Additionally, the complexities of the dissolution process remain a subject of debate, as stakeholders question whether the new regulations will effectively protect the interests of all parties involved, especially in situations where swift action may be necessary to preserve assets.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OH S0554

Nonprofit Corporations

OH H0797

Nonprofit Corporations

OH SB1719

nonprofit corporations; audits

OH H4475

Nonprofit housing corporations

OH S2367

Permits dental service corporations to establish nonprofit parent corporations.

OH A1508

Permits dental service corporations to establish nonprofit parent corporations.

OH AB2352

Medi-Cal providers: nonprofit public benefit corporations.

OH HB2625

technical correction; nonprofit corporations

OH SB141

Provides for nonprofit corporations in Plaquemines Parish. (8/1/25)

OH AB2762

Electrical corporations and gas corporations: rates.

Similar Bills

HI SB2368

Relating To Planned Community Associations.

IL HB5166

DISSOLVE SPECIAL DISTRICTS ACT

NJ S4104

Establishes procedure to dissolve common interest community by constituent homeowners.

IA HF501

A bill for an act relating to school districts, including by modifying provisions related to school district dissolution proposals and election dates for school district mergers, consolidations, or dissolutions.

DE HB353

An Act To Amend Title 8 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The General Corporation Law.

ID H0708

HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATIONS – Adds to existing law to provide for automatic dissolution of homeowner’s associations.

IN HB1684

Irretrievable breakdown of marriage.

NY S09347

Provides for local input for the dissolution of a fire district by requiring the governing body of the fire district enact a resolution calling for a referendum on the proposed dissolution by the electors in the fire district.