2024 Dan French Legacy Award Recipients
This week, the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) presented the Dan French Legacy Award to six members of the Ohio General Assembly in recognition of their leadership on House Bill 15, formally titled “Amend Competitive Retail Electric Service Law.” The legislation seeks to revise aspects of Ohio’s utility regulation framework, modify the taxation of certain public utility property, and repeal selected provisions of House Bill 6, originally enacted during the 133rd General Assembly.
The 2024 recipients are:
- Senate President Rob McColley
- House Speaker Matt Huffman
- Senate President Pro-Tem Bill Reineke
- Senator Brian Chavez
- Representative Adam Holmes
- Representative Roy Klopfenstein
These legislators contributed to the development and passage of a regulatory measure designed to promote greater clarity, balance, and competitiveness in Ohio’s energy marketplace. Their efforts supported a legislative outcome that aims to provide long-term value for businesses and energy consumers across the state.
As OMA President Ryan Augsburger stated, “House Bill 15 is a win for every Ohioan who pays an electric bill.”
The legislation is structured to enhance collaboration among utilities, regulators, and the business community. It addresses technical and structural issues such as auction timelines and energy infrastructure planning, with the goal of aligning regulatory outcomes with economic and operational priorities.
The awards were presented by OMA Board Chair Jeff Oravitz and Tayte French Lutz, CEO and Chairman of the Board of The French Oil Mill Machinery Company, underscoring the shared commitment between industry and government to support Ohio’s manufacturing sector and economic future.
About the Dan French Legacy Award
Established by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, the Dan French Legacy Award honors individuals who exemplify leadership and service in support of Ohio’s manufacturing economy. Named for Lt. Col. Daniel P. French, longtime Chairman and CEO of The French Oil Mill Machinery Company, the award reflects his legacy of integrity, civic engagement, and commitment to industrial progress.
Lt. Col. French’s distinguished career as a military officer, business executive, and advocate for manufacturing continues to inspire efforts that strengthen Ohio’s economic foundation. The 2024 Dan French Legacy Award Recipients exemplify the leadership values and dedication to manufacturing that this award was created to recognize.
We join OMA in congratulating the 2024 award recipients and thank them for their contributions to a stronger, more competitive business environment in Ohio.