State Representative Diane V. Grendell invited Jim MacNeal and Walter ‘Skip’ Claypool to Columbus on Jan. 23 to testify before the Energy and Natural Resources Committee about House Resolution 247. The resolution urges Congress and President Trump to amend the Federal Clean Air Act and dismantle the E-Check program.
The issue is significant because it addresses concerns about the effectiveness of vehicle emissions testing in Ohio, which has been debated by both policymakers and constituents. Supporters argue that advancements in vehicular technology have reduced the need for such programs.
Jim MacNeal, a specialty gases chemist, testified in favor of ending E-Check, raising concerns about how emissions are measured during testing. He said there was evidence that an E-Check emissions testing vehicle may be factoring its own emissions into collected data. Walter ‘Skip’ Claypool, a former Geauga County Commissioner and NOACA Board member, supported MacNeal’s position by discussing how ozone is created and how current Environmental Protection Agency methods measure air quality.
“It was great to have my knowledgeable constituents Jim and Skip testify on this issue,” said Grendell. “I have been in favor of dismantling E-Check for a long time, this resolution is a great step towards that. When a program isn’t working as originally intended, we need to make the responsible decision to end it. Our vehicular technology has become so advanced that E-Check has become redundant and ineffective!”
In related legislative activity, Melanie Miller (R-Columbus) serves as state representative for Ohio’s 67th House District covering Ashland and Medina counties while leading various legislative committees; she also holds leadership roles at community health organizations according to the official website. Miller chaired the House Arts, Athletics and Tourism Committee as well as served on other committees including Health, Technology and Innovation; Children and Human Services according to the official website. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University according to the official website, provided public service in Ashland and Medina counties according to the official website, represented those districts according to the official website, is married to Matt Miller who serves as mayor of Ashland according to the official website, maintains involvement with local civic groups, received an achievement award from Ashland County Women of Achievement according to the official website.
