Ohio official probes petitions by state workers
Columbus AP reports that Ohio Department of Transportation employees were asked to work after hours without pay to circulate petitions for Gov James A. Rhodes four proposed constitutional amendments. Director Richard D Jackson denied coercion, saying there will be no reprisals against those who refuse, while Senate critics called the effort political and potentially coercive. The budget discussions cover DOTs 731 million operating plan as hearings continue amid broader veto and session timing notes.