West Lucas News

State Representative Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) has recently put forward five legislative proposals as part of his 'Family First Agenda' aimed at supporting nuclear families in Ohio. Williams expressed concern over declining birth and marriage rates, stating, "We are seeing declining birth rates and declining marriage rates in Ohio, leading people away from the natural family." He emphasized that "Data doesn’t lie, what is best for children’s development is to have a two-parent household."

The legislation introduced by Williams focuses on encouraging marriage, assisting pregnant mothers and babies, and celebrating natural families. One of the proposed bills is the Invest in Marriage Act, which aims to create an income tax credit for employers offering a 'marriage bonus' to employees who get married. Employees can receive a minimum bonus of $1,000 within the same calendar year after submitting proof of marriage.

Another proposal is the Baby Bonus Act. This act will provide an income tax credit for employers giving bonuses of at least $1,000 to employees or their spouses upon childbirth or adoption. To be eligible, employees must submit appropriate documentation such as a birth certificate or adoption records.

Williams also seeks to support those pursuing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) through legislation providing an income tax credit for employers that subsidize insurance coverage for assisted reproduction treatments.

Additionally, the Paid Parental Leave Act proposes creating an income tax credit for employers offering paid parental leave. Employers would need to provide at least 56 days of paternity leave with full salary compensation during this period. Williams noted that "There really isn’t a set standard for paternity leave in Ohio," and he hopes this act will encourage more consistent policies across workplaces.

Lastly, Williams introduced House Bill 262 to establish Natural Family Month between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. The bill had its first hearing in the House Community Revitalization Committee and awaits further discussion.