Politics & Government

Rep. Mike Dovilla's Bill Makes Life Easier at DMV

The "Welcome to Ohio" bill bypasses certain tests for new residents.

State Representative Mike Dovilla  recently announced signing of his “Welcome to Ohio” legislation, part of the state’s 2014-2015 Transportation Budget, according to a press release.

The bill removes the written examination requirement for an individual exchanging a valid, out-of-state driver’s license for an Ohio driver’s license.

Ohio currently requires any new or returning resident who has a valid driver’s license from another state – including those who were born, raised, and learned to drive in Ohio – to pass vision screening and a written examination in order to receive an Ohio driver’s license. 

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“’Welcome to Ohio’ is common sense legislation,” Dovilla said in a press release.  “Many young adults who graduate from our distinguished institutions of higher education, such as the 7th District’s very own Baldwin Wallace University, go on to attend graduate school or find out-of-state employment with plans to return home to the Buckeye State.  As Ohio’s economy continues to recover, we should be doing everything possible to welcome new and returning residents – not burdening them with unnecessary red tape at the BMV.” 

The legislation will take effect in 90 days.

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In addition to this amendment, Rep. Dovilla also amended the Transportation Budget to ensure revenues generated from new bonds issued by the Ohio Turnpike will be used on projects with a nexus to the state’s toll road. 

This would likely include the construciton of noise barriers on I-80 through Strongsville.

This requirement will help create at least 65,000 jobs along the Turnpike and advance much needed northeast Ohio Infrastructure projects, such as the second span of the Inner Belt Bridge and the Opportunity Corridor.  


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