OH SB193

Eliminates the classification of "intermediate political party" from Ohio election law, creating only "major" and "minor" political party categories.

Lowers the vote threshold for minor political party status from 5% to 3% of votes cast for governor or presidential electors at the most recent regular state election, with automatic 4-year retention of status after meeting the threshold.

Establishes new "party formation petition" process requiring signatures from at least 1% of total votes cast for governor/presidential electors, with minimum 500 signatures from at least half of congressional districts, for new parties to nominate candidates at general elections.

Allows new political parties formed via petition to nominate candidates directly to general election ballots (rather than holding primary elections) if petition filed more than 125 days before the general election.

Modifies candidate nomination procedures so minor party candidates nominated by petition under the new process are treated similarly to independent candidates, including ballot designation and vacancy-filling procedures.