COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed 15-year extension of JobsOhio’s lease on state liquor profits, urging a postponement of the decision to allow for a thorough evaluation.
In a letter addressed to JobsOhio, Yost highlighted apprehensions about the absence of additional compensation in the proposed extension. He noted that while the original 25-year agreement included an upfront payment of approximately $1.4 billion, the current proposal lacks a similar financial commitment. Yost emphasized the importance of ensuring that any extension serves the best interests of Ohio residents.
Additionally, Yost reached out to the Office of Budget and Management, requesting that the Ohio Controlling Board defer consideration of the extension, which is scheduled for review on February 12. He expressed concern over the limited time available for a comprehensive assessment, especially after a planned meeting between his office and JobsOhio was canceled by the organization.
The proposed extension would prolong JobsOhio’s control over state liquor profits, a primary funding source for the private economic development corporation, by an additional 15 years beyond the original agreement. Yost’s intervention seeks to ensure that such a significant decision undergoes proper scrutiny and deliberation.
As of now, JobsOhio has not publicly responded to Attorney General Yost’s concerns or his request for a delay. The situation remains under development, with further discussions anticipated among state officials and stakeholders.