Clermont Times

The Ohio House State and Local Government Committee has passed House Bill 184, a legislation aimed at updating Ohio's Charitable Solicitations Law. The bill, sponsored by State Rep. Adam Bird (R-New Richmond), seeks to bring about important changes to ensure transparency and accountability in charitable solicitations.

Under the proposed legislation, the following amendments will be made to Ohio's Charitable Solicitations Law:

1. Collection receptacles that are commonly found in random parking lots will now be included under Ohio's Charitable Solicitations Law. This will help regulate and monitor the collection of funds in these receptacles.

2. A label will be required on collection receptacles, providing the contact information of those operating the receptacle. This will enable donors to easily reach out and inquire about the organizations behind these collection efforts.

3. The legislation will also prohibit charitable solicitations or sales promotions from violating the federal Telemarketing Sales Rule, which bans the initiation of telephone calls that deliver pre-recorded messages. This measure aims to prevent unsolicited and deceptive calls that may be used for fraudulent solicitations.

State Rep. Adam Bird emphasized that the goal of this legislation is not to limit the number of charitable organizations but rather to provide transparency to donors. "The goal is to provide transparency to those who are willing to make donations so that they know where their donations are going," stated Bird.

House Bill 184 has now cleared the House Committee and awaits a vote on the House floor. Once passed, it will bring about important changes to Ohio's Charitable Solicitations Law, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the state's charitable sector.

Click this link to access more information: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/adam-c-bird/news/house-committee-passes-bill-to-update-ohios-charitable-solicitations-law-117439