Senate transportation committee approves governor's reappointment of Colleen Shane Murray to Ohio Turnpike commission, refers nomination to Rules

Chair Patton opened the meeting and presented the governor's reappointment of Colleen Shane Murray to the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission. The chair recognized Vice Chair Schaeffer, who moved to approve the appointment and refer it to the Committee on Rules in Reference.

Ranking Member Antonio said there were no problems with the appointee but reminded members that the commission is composed of six appointed, voting members with a limit on how many may share a party affiliation; he noted that with this appointment the panel would include three Republicans and two Democrats and that an additional vacancy remains. "There is also an opening, an open seat that we've discussed with the Governor's office," Antonio said, adding that his office is working to have a Democratic candidate considered for the vacant position.

The clerk called the roll; Chair Patton, Vice Chair Schaeffer and Ranking Member Antonio each recorded votes in favor, as did Senator Smith. After the roll call, Chair Patton stated, "Having received the, required number of votes, the Governor's appointment is referred to the Committee on Rules in Reference." The committee took no further action on the appointment during the hearing.

No formal debate about the appointee's qualifications was recorded during the committee meeting. The appointment will move to Rules in Reference for further committee consideration according to Senate procedures.