Schaffer Introduces Legislation To Prevent Fraud, Waste, And Abuse

COLUMBUS—State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) introduced Senate Bill 372 this week, legislation which creates a financial reporting system for any non-government group receiving state taxpayer money.

The legislation will promote clarity on reporting the use of direct and indirect costs coming from any non-government group or business that is receiving public money from the state.

“We’ve seen the abuses by NGOs (non-governmental organizations) in Minnesota, and we want to make sure these abuses of the taxpayer don’t go on here in Ohio,” Schaffer said. “It is essential that public funds are properly used as these groups have an obligation to use the funds in a principled manner. Holding various groups who are receiving public money to a high standard of accountability is critical to preventing fraud, waste and abuse of public dollars.”

Implementing a reporting system would allow NGOs to submit financial status reports and indicate what public money was received and how it was used through their projects.

“Senate Bill 372 strengthens transparency and accountability for Ohio's taxpayers," State Auditor Keith Faber said. "I appreciate Senator Schaffer’s leadership in improving Ohio’s oversight of public funds."

In recent years, there have been numerous examples of fraud, waste and abuse of public funds. Most recently, in December of 2025, Auditor Faber reported that 39 of 55 companies that have received a Job Creation Tax Credit in recent years through the Ohio Department of Development failed to meet the minimum requirements of the tax credit.

Senate Bill 372 now awaits committee assignment for further consideration in the Ohio Senate.

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