Columbus, Ohio, September 19, 2025
News Summary
Major updates to Ohio’s public construction laws aim to enhance efficiency and accountability in public projects, particularly impacting libraries and local government facilities. New procurement processes for contracts under $4 million are set to simplify contracting, while updated regulations on construction retainage aim to protect workers and ensure timely payments. A webinar will help stakeholders prepare for these changes, which also include broader legislation affecting various sectors.
Columbus, Ohio – Major updates to public construction laws in Ohio are set to take effect on September 30, 2025. These changes will significantly impact public construction projects across the state, particularly for libraries and other local government facilities. With a focus on enhancing efficiency and accountability, the new laws will usher in streamlined processes and enhanced regulations.
Among the critical changes is the establishment of new procurement processes for construction manager at risk (CMR) and design-build projects valued under $4 million. This aims to simplify how contracts are awarded, potentially leading to faster project timelines and reduced costs.
In addition, the updated laws will introduce new requirements for construction retainage and payments. These provisions are designed to protect workers and ensure timely payment during the construction process, promoting fairness and increasing trust in the public construction sector.
To help stakeholders understand the upcoming changes, a webinar hosted by Laura Bowman will provide an overview of the key legal modifications. This educational effort is aimed at preparing library officials, public officials, and construction professionals for the impending updates.
These new construction laws are part of broader legislation endorsed by Governor Mike DeWine that will also affect several other sectors in Ohio. One significant aspect is SB 6, which stipulates that appeals against building inspector decisions must be filed within one business day, with hearings required to occur within five business days. This aims to expedite the resolution of disputes related to building enforcement.
Another noteworthy change is addressed in SB 100, which exempts nonprofit agricultural membership organizations from state insurance regulations, potentially reducing bureaucratic oversight for these entities. Further reforms include SB 114, which prohibits law enforcement agencies from imposing arrest or citation quotas, thereby promoting more equitable law enforcement practices.
Additionally, SB 138 revises governance structures for local Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health (ADAMH) service boards, increasing accountability measures to improve service delivery. Meanwhile, SB 147 alters regulations around solid waste and construction debris management, enabling counties to have greater control over waste management processes.
Other impactful legislation occurring on the same day includes HB 64, which lowers the qualifying age for discounted hunting and fishing licenses from 66 to 65, and HB 96, which mandates the implementation of cybersecurity frameworks for public entities while altering age requirements for driver education programs.
All of these updates are intended to promote a more efficient public sector while ensuring safety and accountability standards remain intact across Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key changes to Ohio’s public construction laws?
The key changes include streamlined procurement processes for projects under $4 million, new requirements for construction retainage and payments, and various other regulatory updates related to building inspections and service governance.
When will these laws take effect?
The new laws will take effect on September 30, 2025.
How will these changes impact libraries in Ohio?
The changes are expected to streamline the procurement process for construction projects at libraries, leading to greater efficiency and potentially reduced costs in project execution.
Key Features of Ohio’s Public Construction Law Overhaul
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | September 30, 2025 |
| Streamlined Procurement | Processes for CMR and design-build projects under $4 million |
| Construction Retainage | New requirements for timely payments and worker protections |
| Legislative Changes | Broader laws signed by Governor DeWine affecting other sectors |
| Key Legislative Bills | SB 6, SB 100, SB 114, SB 138, SB 147, HB 64, HB 96 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- JD Supra: Webinar on New Ohio Construction Laws
- Peak of Ohio: New Certification Rules for Building Standards
- WTOL: New Laws in Ohio Effective September 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ohio Construction Laws
- Google Search: Ohio New Construction Laws 2025
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