The Ohio Elections Commission may be expanding its jurisdiction to hear complaints where it is alleged that school districts (or other local governments) have promoted levies or candidates with public funds in violation of State laws that currently prohibit such use.

Under proposed legislation, any member of the public or the State Auditor would be able to file a complaint with the OEC. The Commission could choose to hear the complaint on an expedited basis and would be empowered to levy a fine up to $1,000, order restitution or refer for prosecution. A copy of the proposed legislation (H.B. 64) is available upon request.

The proposal comes at a time when the Commission is struggling to meet its payroll.