To enact section 1509.023 of the Revised Code to prohibit the removal of oil or gas from under state lands via horizontal wells and to name this act the Protecting public Resources, Ecosystems, and Sensitive lands from Extraction, Violation, and Exploitation (PRESERVE) Act.
Summary
SB132 would add a new section to the Ohio Revised Code prohibiting the director of natural resources or any other state authority from issuing permits, leases, or other authorization to extract oil or natural gas from beneath land owned or controlled by the state using horizontal wells. In practical terms, the bill would bar state-sanctioned horizontal drilling under state lands, regardless of other provisions in the Revised Code.
The measure also gives the act a formal short title: the Protecting public Resources, Ecosystems, and Sensitive lands from Extraction, Violation, and Exploitation (PRESERVE) Act. The bill is narrowly focused on state-owned or state-controlled land and on one extraction method—horizontal wells—rather than broadly regulating all oil and gas development.
Impact
If enacted, SB132 would create a new statutory restriction in Ohio’s oil and gas law by adding section 1509.023 to the Revised Code. It would limit the authority of the Department of Natural Resources and any other state entity to approve horizontal drilling for oil or gas beneath state lands, effectively removing that option from the state’s leasing and permitting framework. The bill would most directly affect state agencies responsible for mineral leasing and permitting, as well as energy companies seeking access to state-owned subsurface resources.
Sentiment
The available context shows the bill was introduced and referred to the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, but there are no recorded votes or committee transcript excerpts provided. Based on the bill text and sponsor lineup, the measure appears to be framed as a conservation and public-resource protection bill, suggesting support from lawmakers concerned about environmental protection and state land stewardship. Because no debate or vote history is included, there is no documented opposition or consensus in the provided materials.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely to be the balance between environmental protection and resource development. Supporters would view the bill as preventing extraction under sensitive public lands and protecting ecosystems, while opponents could argue it unnecessarily restricts lawful oil and gas development, reduces potential state revenue, and limits the discretion of natural resources officials. The bill’s categorical ban on horizontal wells under state lands is the central policy choice that would draw debate.
To amend sections 3505.01 and 3505.10 of the Revised Code to modify the deadline for a political party to certify its nominees for President and Vice-President to the Secretary of State.
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.
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.
To delay the deadline for a major political party to certify its presidential and vice presidential candidates to the Secretary of State for the 2024 general election.