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For the first time, six influential Ohio groups identified a consensus of public policy priorities to ensure the future of opportunity, growth and prosperity for Ohioans. In March, the executive committee of the OFBF board of trustees met with the National Federation of Independent Business, Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Business Roundtable, Ohio Manufacturers' Association and Ohio Council of Retail Merchants.

The groups discussed the business agenda of Ohio, including topics such as tort reform, Medicaid reform, school funding and the state budget deficit. Speakers included Gov. Bob Taft and House Speaker Larry Householder.

The policy priorities for Ohio are:

• Business climate: Implement policy changes to create a friendlier business climate that strengthens competitiveness, encourages investment and spurs economic growth;
• Economic development: Devise and implement an economic development strategy that capitalizes on Ohio's regional strengths and world-class assets in research and development and that positions Ohio to capitalize on opportunities presented by a knowledge-based economy;
• Education reform and workforce development: Ensure full implementation of Ohio's standards-based education reforms and intensify workforce development efforts; and
• State budget: Enact a sustainable state budget that promotes long-term economic growth.