Gov.-elect Amy Acton has named John Haseley, former chief of staff to Gov. Ted Strickland, to lead her transition team ahead of taking office Jan. 11. Acton also launched a transition website where Ohioans can express interest in joining her administration. Her team faces a busy transition, including cabinet appointments and preparation of the state's next executive budget proposal, due March 15.
Meanwhile, Gov. Mike DeWine has expressed opposition to legislation that would significantly restrict the incoming governor's authority. Two proposals, House Bill 775 and House Bill 1024, would revise state agency rulemaking authority and oversight. Republican legislative leaders have not committed to advancing the measures during the lame-duck session, while DeWine has emphasized cooperation and continuity between administrations. Read additional coverage of Acton's transition and the debate over executive authority.