The Ohio House approved a bill sponsored by state Rep. Nick Santucci, R-Niles, to create the Ohio Defense and Space Commission.

The commission, with 13 voting members from the state Legislature, would meet at least monthly to go over strategies to promote the defense and aerospace industries in Ohio.

The bill passed 72-10 in the Ohio House with seven Democrats and three Republicans in opposition. The legislation now moves to the state Senate for consideration.

Santucci said, “Ohio has long been a leader in aerospace and defense, supporting hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs and driving innovation across our state.”

Santucci said the establishment of the commission “protects jobs, strengthens our economy and keeps Ohio at the forefront of national defense and additive manufacturing. (The bill) ensures we are organized, strategic and ready to compete for even more opportunity.”

The commission would administer a grant program to support the economic development of defense and aerospace industries; recruit international businesses to invest in the state for the two industries; promote research, development and manufacturing of technology to counter unmanned aerial vehicle systems in Ohio; consider policies to improve quality of life for service members and veterans; and study and develop strategies to promote the industries throughout the state.

The bill proposes a 13-member commission with three from the Ohio House and three from the Senate — with two members being from the majority party and one from the minority party in each chamber. Seven nonlegislative members come from the seven different JobsOhio designated regions of the state.

The proposal also calls for several nonvoting members of the commission.

During June 11 testimony in front of the House Veterans and Military Development Committee, Santucci said the defense industry generates about $69 billion in total economic activity.

“This commission will serve as a catalyst for solidifying and expanding Ohio’s already strong defense industry, which plays a vital role in both national security and the state’s economic vitality.”

The commission, Santucci said, “will help maximize Ohio’s competitive advantages in innovation, manufacturing and workforce development. By fostering a more agile and future-ready defense ecosystem, the commission will ensure Ohio remains at the forefront of emerging defense technologies and global investment opportunities.”

Construction is expected to start this summer on the first phase of the Youngstown Innovation Hub for Aerospace and Defense in the city’s downtown that will have $162 million in economic impact when finished.

The $62.2 million project, which includes $27.2 million in state funding, was announced Feb. 27, 2025.