Ohio tourism pass pushed by state lawmaker

(The Center Square) – An Ohio legislator has introduced a bill she believes will increase tourism and tax revenue in the state.

House bill 732 by State. Rep. Melanie Miller, R-Ashland, would create a pass program for tourists called “Ohio, The Heart of it All.” Attractions that joined the program would provide discounts to tourists who buy the passes.

The revenue from sale of the passes would go to a state fund for administering the program promoting tourism in Ohio.

Ohio residents could buy the passes at a discount.

In 2026, the pass would be offered free to Ohio residents in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

“This legislation strengthens Ohio’s tourism economy,” Miller said at a news conference Tuesday. “It supports small businesses and local attractions. It drives foot traffic to our downtowns and our parks, our museums, our theaters, our restaurants and to our historic sites.”

Miller hopes Ohio attractions will offer the discounts on a voluntary basis and hopes a boost in touris...