An Ohio bill has been introduced to create an "Electric Vehicle Commission" and temporary sales tax exemption for electric vehicle production parts.

State Rep. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield) made the announcement Friday that he is joint sponsoring House Bill 292 alongside State Rep. Lisa Sobecki (D-Toledo).

"Remaining economically competitive within the region of Ohio and as well as with our neighboring states is a top priority," Cutrona said. "I believe establishing this body also serves as an investment for job retention and economic development up here in Northeast Ohio."

Cutrona notes that electric vehicles are on track to be an essential part of the future of the car and vehicle industries. Cutrona says creating a commission to study and make recommendations on this issue is a productive first step.

He adds that many details need to be worked on related to jobs, workplace protection, consumer protection, environmental protections and what can be done to encourage production growth for electric vehicles throughout the state.

The legislation currently has 18 cosponsors and awaits its first committee hearing.