H.B. 630 Summary

• Creates the Ohio Asian-American and Pacific Islander Affairs Commission consisting of 11 voting members appointed by the governor with senate confirmation and 4 ex officio nonvoting members from the legislature.

• Establishes the Office of Asian-American and Pacific Islander Affairs, headed by a director appointed by and serving at the pleasure of the commission, to implement commission directives and serve as a clearinghouse for proposals and programs.

• Commission responsibilities include gathering information on Asian-American and Pacific Islander issues, conducting public education programs, advising state agencies on policies and programs, reviewing grants, and promoting delivery of state services in education, employment, health, housing, and other fields.

• Voting members must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents drawn from urban, suburban, and rural areas with geographical balance representing the Asian-American and Pacific Islander population throughout the state.

• Commission must meet at least six times annually, requires a quorum of six voting members for valid action, and voting members receive compensation determined by statute plus reimbursement for actual expenses.