The Lead Off Two Ohio lawmakers have introduced legislation that would prohibit current public officials’ names and images from appearing on publicly funded signs and displays. House Bill 938, known as the “No Free Advertising for Politicians Act,” would apply to road signs, billboards, g overnment vehicles, and other publicly funded outdoor signage. Violations could result in a first-degree misdemeanor charge, carrying penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. COLUMBUS, OHIO (WOWO) Ohio lawmakers are considering legislation that would prohibit the use of taxpayer dollars for signage and displays featuring the names or likenesses of current public officials. House Bill 938, titled the “No Free Advertising for Politicians Act,” was introduced in May by Mark Hiner, R-Howard, and Tex Fischer, R-Canfield. The measure seeks to prevent what sponsors describe as political self-promotion through publicly funded materials according to WCMH. Proposal targets taxpayer-funded political branding Under the bill, current public officials would be prohibited from having their names or likenesses displayed on publicly funded outdoor signage. The restrictions would apply to: Road signs. Billboards. Outdoor markers. Signs or decals on the exterior of public buildings. Outdoor fixtures. Government-owned vehicles. Rep. Hiner said the proposal is intended to ensure taxpayer resources are used for public information rather than personal promotion. “The No Free Advertising for Politicians Act keeps taxpayer dollars focused on Ohio’s needs, not political self-promotion,” Hiner said. “Public office is a responsibility, not a branding opportunity. Taxpayer-funded signs are intended to inform the public.” Limited exceptions included in legislation The bill includes several exceptions. Public signage could still identify an office or position, provided it does not include the official’s name or likeness. The legislation also allows displays specifically authorized under existing state law. Supporters say those provisions would allow agencies to communicate necessary information while avoiding what they view as taxpayer-funded political branding. Penalties outlined in proposal Individuals found in violation of the law would face a first-degree misdemeanor. Under Ohio law, that offense can carry penalties of: Up to 180 days in jail. A fine of up to $1,000. “Ohioans expect government to be accountable with their money, and this bill reinforces that standard,” Hiner said. The proposal also requires public agencies to remove or modify any noncompliant displays that were installed before the law takes effect. The legislation states that changes must be made “as soon as practicable.” Similar efforts seen in other states Several states have enacted or considered comparable restrictions on publicly funded signage featuring elected officials. According to the bill’s supporters: Illinois enacted a law in 2011 restricting the use of officials’ names on state road signs and billboards. Iowa passed legislation in 2018 prohibiting elected officials from using taxpayer funds for self-promotion. Lawmakers in Kentucky considered a similar measure in 2025 that would have removed the governor’s and lieutenant governor’s names from state welcome signs, though the proposal did not advance. Impact on existing Ohio signage The language of House Bill 938 appears to affect some current signage across Ohio, including state-funded road signs that display the name of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. If enacted, agencies would be required to review existing displays and bring them into compliance with the new law. Legislative process underway House Bill 938 has been referred to the Ohio House General Government Committee, where it is awaiting its first hearing and public testimony. The proposal must receive approval from both chambers of the Ohio General Assembly before being sent to Gov. DeWine for consideration. The Takeaway Bill would restrict names and images on public signage House Bill 938 would prohibit current public officials from appearing on taxpayer-funded signs, billboards, government vehicles, and other outdoor displays. Supporters cite accountability concerns Sponsors say public funds should be used for informational purposes and not for promoting elected officials through government-funded materials. Measure faces legislative review The proposal remains in committee and must clear the Ohio House, Ohio Senate, and receive the governor’s signature before becoming law. The post Ohio Lawmakers Propose Ban on Politicians’ Names and Images on Taxpayer-Funded Signs appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less