OH HJR13

Submits a constitutional amendment to Ohio voters for the November 7, 2017 general election that would modernize Article VIII provisions regarding state debt issuance.

Amends Section 2 to remove obsolete references to the "sinking fund" while preserving the state's ability to contract debt for invasion, insurrection, defense, or to redeem outstanding indebtedness.

Enacts Section 2t authorizing the General Assembly to issue general obligation bonds for mental health and developmental disabilities facilities, parks and recreation, and state agency housing, with a 25-year maximum maturity period.

Repeals 15 obsolete constitutional sections (2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h, 2j, 2k, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and related sinking fund provisions) that are no longer needed under modern debt practices.

Enacts Section 18 to preserve the validity of any outstanding debt or obligations issued under repealed sections, ensuring they remain enforceable according to their original terms.