COLUMBUS, Ohio — State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) has officially introduced a trio of bills in the Ohio House, aiming to tighten driver’s licensing requirements, expand legal recognition for the unborn, and crack down on human trafficking through stricter industry regulations.
The legislative package—House Bills 753, 754, and 744—was introduced last week and is currently awaiting committee assignments in the 136th General Assembly.
HB 753: “English-Only” Driver’s Exams
In a move aimed at highway safety, Schmidt’s first bill would mandate that all Ohio driver’s examinations be administered exclusively in English. This would end the current practice of allowing translators or non-English testing materials.
“It’s important that Ohio drivers understand English so they can understand traffic laws, read road signs, and effectively interact with law enforcement,” Schmidt stated.
The bill argues that a universal language standard is necessary to ensure every driver on the road fully comprehends the legal and physical responsibilities of operating a motor vehicle.
HB 754: Certificates of Life and Death
Focusing on the “sanctity of life,” this legislation introduces new documentation requirements for fetal development. If a fetal heartbeat is detected during a pregnancy, the state would be required to file a “Certificate of Life.” Conversely, the bill also mandates that a certificate of death be filed for all fetal deaths.
Schmidt, a staunch advocate for anti-abortion measures, noted that the bill is about legal acknowledgment. “Life begins in the womb, and we must acknowledge that,” she said.
HB 744: Targeting Human Trafficking
The third piece of legislation takes aim at the massage therapy industry, which has frequently been used as a front for human trafficking operations. HB 744 clarifies exactly which professionals are legally permitted to perform massage therapy in the state.
- Key Requirement: All massage therapists must hold a current, valid license issued by the State Medical Board of Ohio.
- Goal: To eliminate “bad actors” and illicit businesses by providing law enforcement with clearer tools to identify unlicensed practitioners.
Legislative Outlook
All three bills were formally introduced between March 10 and March 11, 2026. While they currently lack a committee home, they are expected to spark significant debate in Columbus as they move through the House.
