State and Local Government - Ohio

Government priorities are constantly changing. Our attorneys and lobbying professionals understand how public policy decisions have become more critical to every entity that intersects with government including, independent businesses, regulated industries, professional trade organizations and non-profits.

Barnes & Thornburg draws on more than 50 years of collective lobbying and legal experience to advocate on behalf of clients in local, county and state government. We are passionate about issue advocacy and the legislative process. Our bipartisan legislative, political, lobbying and legal experience in Ohio means we have the knowledge and conviction to lead your initiatives and priorities.

Biennial Budget and Capital Budget Lobbying

Having worked on more than 30 biennial budgets and capital budgets, Barnes & Thornburg provides the experience needed to advance a client’s public policy and capital appropriation projects through a lengthy budget process. We have experience with complex budget issues including tax policy, Medicaid reimbursement, education policy, funding, and economic incentives.

Issue Advocacy

Communication and planning is crucial to reaching your legislative or ballot initiative goals. We can help you identify the key decision-makers and formulate a grassroots and grass-tops strategy to implement an effective public policy plan or agenda.

Economic Development

The professionals at Barnes & Thornburg believe in the strength and business climate in Ohio. We can help your business structure and secure the most appropriate economic development solutions – tax credits, grants, loans and abatements, site selection – and introducing you to key players in state and local government. Our professionals have been involved in all facets of economic development for those businesses either expanding or seeking to re-locate.

Government Procurement

The public sector is the largest consumer of goods and services in Ohio. Unlike the private sector, a labyrinth of statutes and regulations control government purchases, which can be daunting for many businesses. With the advancement of public-private partnerships and concession agreements, navigating this space requires a legal partner with experience. Our professional team can work with your business in developing a plan to do business with Ohio’s government entities.