To amend sections 125.831 and 125.832 and to enact section 125.833 of the Revised Code regarding use of E15 blended fuel for state motor vehicles.
Summary
HB 931 would require Ohio state motor vehicles that can run on E15 to use E15 blended fuel when it is reasonably available at a reasonable price. The bill adds a new section to the Revised Code directing the Department of Administrative Services to implement the requirement and to phase it in over four years in 25% increments. It also requires state departments and agencies to inform employees who operate state vehicles about the fuel-use requirement and to instruct them to buy E15 at retail fuel facilities whenever possible.
The bill also makes conforming changes to the state fleet-management statutes. It updates definitions in the existing fleet law to include E15 blended fuel and revises related terminology governing state motor vehicles, state agencies, and fleet administration. The Department of Administrative Services would continue to have exclusive authority over state vehicle acquisition and management, and the new E15 requirement would apply only to vehicles not otherwise covered by a separate statute referenced in the bill, likely preserving existing exceptions for certain specialized or exempt vehicles.
Impact
HB 931 would amend Ohio’s fleet-management provisions in Revised Code sections 125.831 and 125.832 and create new section 125.833. In practical terms, it would impose a statewide fuel policy for eligible state-owned and state-leased vehicles, requiring the use of E15 when available and cost-appropriate. The bill would affect the Department of Administrative Services, state agencies operating motor pools, and state employees who fuel state vehicles, while leaving in place the department’s broader authority over vehicle purchasing, leasing, and fleet oversight.
Sentiment
The bill appears to be a management- and efficiency-oriented proposal rather than a controversial policy overhaul. Because there are no recorded votes or committee transcripts in the provided materials, there is no direct evidence of support or opposition from legislators. The bill’s framing suggests a generally practical sentiment focused on fleet standardization, cost-conscious fuel use, and implementation through a gradual phase-in.
Contention
The main potential points of contention are operational and economic rather than ideological. Critics could question whether E15 is consistently available at a reasonable price across the state, whether the four-year phase-in is sufficient, and whether the mandate could complicate fleet operations or fuel procurement. Another possible issue is the scope of exemptions and how the Department of Administrative Services would decide which vehicles, agencies, or operators are included in the phase-in. Supporters would likely emphasize fuel diversification, potential cost savings, and administrative simplicity for state fleet management.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
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