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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Ohio High School Athletic Association unveiled a proposal Thursday that would allow high school student-athletes to receive money for their name, image, and likeness.

The OHSAA held an emergency meeting after a judge granted a temporary restraining order allowing student-athletes to temporarily accept NIL deals without losing their amateur status.

The lawsuit against the OHSAA was brought by Huber Heights Wayne football standout Jamier Brown and his mother, Jasmine. Brown is among the top-rated players in the nation for the class of 2027 and is already committed to Ohio State. His attorney said Brown could be receiving significant financial benefit from NIL, but accepting those deals in Ohio is currently against OHSAA rules and would therefore make him ineligible to play. 

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Under the new OHSAA proposal, which member schools are expected to vote on in mid-November, high school student-athletes would be allowed to accept NIL deals, provided they do not use the name, logos, mascots, trademarks, or other property of any OHSAA schools.

Student-athletes would be prohibited from engaging in any personal branding activities during school hours, and while traveling to or from any OHSAA event. Student-athletes would also be prohibited from accepting compensation based on performance, such as amount of points scored.

The bylaws would prohibit student-athletes from accepting deals that are intended to induce a student to attend a specific school. Schools may also not arrange deals on behalf of student-athletes.

When reaching an agreement, student-athletes would have 14 days to notify OHSAA of the deal or they would become ineligible for a period of up to 20% of the season.

The OHSAA said it has been patient in monitoring NIL across the country, and also as it has taken hold in major college athletics. 

“At the Division I level, things like collectives where universities pay athletes directly, we’ve seen that that’s been a pitfall,” Tim Stried, director of communications for OHSAA, previously told NBC4. “Their recruiting based on NIL, that’s something we don’t want to see at the high school level. The transfer portal is a huge part of college athletics now and obviously we don’t want that, any shape of that, at the high school level. So those are some of the things we’ve seen at the college level that has made us really reluctant to put this up in Ohio for high schools. The courts have always ruled in favor of the student athletes. We’ve seen that over and over again. That’s what we’re dealing with right now. So our bylaw is going to shape a lot of that language that we think will have some controls on it.” 

HILLIARD, Ohio (WCMH) -- Amazon Web Services' contested proposal to power Hilliard data centers with a fuel cell system is now expected to move forward without city approval.

"In my opinion, the AWS data centers have been built on a mound of lies, false promises, and half-truths to get their agenda pushed through," Hilliard resident Chris Ighnat said. "They are not 'good neighbors' as they like to say, and what they are bringing is diminished property values, health concerns and fire safety concerns with this new project."

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Residents like Ighnat have been outspoken against AWS and AEP Ohio's plan to power multiple data centers in Hilliard using fuel cell technology. On Monday, AEP Ohio withdrew its application before Hilliard officials could rule on it, arguing that state law overrides local approval for the project. The natural gas-fueled system is expected to proceed on Scioto Darby Road without Hilliard's authorization. See previous coverage of AWS' Hilliard data centers in the video player above.

AEP Ohio cited a law initially intended to support wind energy that gives the Ohio Power Siting Board authority over some projects. The law states "no public agency or political subdivision of this state may require any approval, consent, permit, certificate or other condition for the construction or operation of a major utility facility" authorized by the board.

AEP Ohio said its project qualifies as a major utility facility and therefore is subject to the law. The Ohio Power Siting Board authorized AEP Ohio's fuel cell plan in September. Hilliard officials said they were disappointed but acknowledged the state does have jurisdiction.

“These are the types of issues that should be addressed at the local level,” Dan Ralley, Hilliard's acting city manager, said. “It’s regrettable that state lawmakers have overridden local oversight, particularly since this technology is unfamiliar and new not just to our city but also the entire state.”

A fuel cell system generates electricity through electrochemical reactions. Some fuel cells generate clean energy, using liquid nitrogen and oxygen to output electricity and drinkable water. Hilliard's fuel cell system will input natural gas instead, releasing electricity and large amounts of carbon dioxide.

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Hilliard resident Paul Lambert is generally amiable toward data centers, retiring from work on large-scale data centers across the U.S. and Europe, and voting in favor of the economic incentives that brought AWS to Hilliard when working as a school board member. However, he is worried about the carbon dioxide emissions, which he estimates at 1 million pounds of carbon dioxide, or CO2, per day.

"What do they intend to do with that much CO2? It appears that they intend to release it into the air," Lambert said.

Amy Swank, an advocate for protections against data centers, is also concerned about carbon dioxide outputs. Swank lives in Dublin, but has extended her advocacy to neighboring communities. Further, her children attend school in Hilliard, and she worries about a natural gas pipeline's environmental, contamination, and fire safety implications.

"My primary concern is safety. This is a new technology. It's unapproved technology, at least when it comes to our community," Swank said. "I don't think the city even really knew what questions to ask."

AEP Ohio is required to complete a fire protection review, and the company indicated it will work with the Norwich Township Fire Department on necessary safety training for the fuel cell installation.

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"AEP Ohio appreciates the collaborative relationship we have with the city of Hilliard," AEP Ohio said in a statement. "We remain committed to maintaining strong community partnerships as we deliver innovative solutions for our customers that are safe and comply with all laws and regulations applicable to their operation — in this case, an onsite fuel cell system at a customer’s site."

Swank, Lambert and Ighnat all raised questions about the interpretation of the law, and Ighnat implored city officials to push back against AEP Ohio's decision.

"We all recognize that data centers are sort of a necessary evil, because the AWS outage this week really showed how much as a society, we are relying (on them) for cloud storage," Swank said. "It does become a question of, what is the correct balance? Where do we put cloud storage vs. safety?”

AEP Ohio and AWS plan to begin construction on the fuel cell system in January, to be completed around September 2027. The project is slated to be temporary until AEP Ohio can catch up with demands on the grid.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A court order has been secured to shut down a “flop house” known for alleged drug activity and other crimes in Southwest Columbus.

According to the Columbus City Attorney’s Office, the Property Action Team was granted a court order to shut down and board up a property on Red Leaf Lane in Southwest Columbus. The home has reportedly been used as a “flop house” for drug users, traffickers, and criminals on the run.

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The City’s Attorney’s Office said that Columbus police have made numerous runs to the area over the past two years for criminal and drug activity. CPD surveillance uncovered more than two dozen individuals associated with the property, including several previous convicted drug traffickers.

Other complaints in 2025 resulted in the discovery of drugs, weapons, prostitution, and an alleged assault. Complaints date as far back as 2019, but increased violence and suspicious activity began to increase in 2024.

The Franklin County Municipal Court, Environmental Division declared the property a nuisance and set a preliminary injunction hearing.

DUBLIN, Ohio (WCMH) -- Livewell, a veterinary clinic with animal hospitals and urgent cares nationwide, is moving forward with plans to build a Dublin hospital as it readies to open its first Ohio urgent care in Worthington.

Plans submitted to the city of Dublin by Treanor, a Kansas-founded architecture firm, show that Livewell is hoping to build the hospital on a nearly two-acre vacant site at 3990 W. Dublin Granville Road. The one-story location would span 4,097 square feet and include several exam rooms, a lab, treatment area, a dental space, a surgery room, and a x-ray chamber.

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If approved, Livewell's Dublin hospital would sit on the west side of the property and include 20 parking spaces. The site's east side would be reserved for "a future coffeeshop retailer," Treanor's proposal states, and feature 18 parking spaces. The plan is scheduled to receive a review on Thursday by the city's planning and zoning commission.

• Plans show that Livewell is hoping to build the Dublin hospital on a nearly two-acre vacant site at 3990 W. Dublin Granville Road. (Courtesy Photo/City of Dublin)
• The Dublin site's east side would be reserved for "a future coffeeshop retailer," Treanor's proposal states, and feature 18 parking spaces. (Courtesy Photo/City of Dublin)

Treanor noted in its proposal that this type of building project isn't "specifically permitted" inside the Sawmill Center Neighborhood, where the West Dublin Granville Road property is located. However, the architecture firm is asking the city of Dublin to consider "a waiver in this instance," the proposal states, "given this overall parcel will have two buildings."

Livewell is hoping to receive the green light for a Dublin hospital as it's preparing to open its first Ohio urgent care at 121 W. Wilson Bridge Road in Westerville. The veterinary clinic first announced the Westerville location in July on social media and has continued to tease its launch. While an opening date has yet to be shared, "the wait is almost over," a September post said.

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"We can't wait to welcome you and your fur family to Livewell Animal Urgent Care," the social media post said, directing animal owners to its website for future updates. "Whether it's for a little oopsies or unexpected emergencies, we're here to provide the peace of mind that when you choose us, all is well."

Livewell also operates and is developing hospitals and urgent cares in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Washington.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) - Meet Tori! She is available at the Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center.

Tori is a sweet senior who is 11 years old. Shelter staff said she's been at the facility for a couple of weeks. Tori is an older dog, but staff said she still has some pep in her step.

Tori is available for adoption at the Franklin County Dog Shelter.

The shelter said Tori would do best in a home on her own or with another senior dog where she can relax and give a lot of cuddles. Her personality is a little more quiet, not a lot of energy, but she is super sweet.

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Tori loves getting all of the pets and cuddles she can get and enjoys going on walks to get her exercise. The shelter said she is well behaved and walks pretty good on leash.

If you are interested in Tori, she is available for adoption or a foster to adopt. You can visit her now for a meet and greet at the shelter, located at 4340 Tamarack Blvd. in Columbus. For the full list of adoptable dogs, visit the shelter's website.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The final full weekend of October has arrived, and central Ohio is brimming with fall festivities and Halloween happenings.

From glowing “Goosebumps” pumpkin displays to concerts and community celebrations, there is something for every age and interest this weekend.

Families can enjoy trick-or-treat events, scavenger hunts and hands-on science activities, while adults can take in live music, seasonal cocktails and the nation’s most elaborate costume party, HighBall Halloween.

Many local attractions are adding spooky twists and autumn-inspired experiences to mark the final weekend before Halloween. Check out the list below for some standout events from Oct. 23 to 26, 2025.

Goosebumps at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, through Oct. 26, 5 to 9 p.m.
• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens will display pumpkins decorated as “Goosebumps” book covers and host special “Goosebumps”-themed scavenger hunts. The Watershed bar will offer specialty cocktails, such as “Monster Blood” and “Little Monster Blood.” Tickets range from $17.33 to $28.35 on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, and $19.43 to $30.45 on Fridays and Saturdays. Prices include the Columbus culture fee.

CAPA Haunts the Palace

Palace Theatre, 3 W. Broad St., Thursday, Oct. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. 
• An annual free, family-friendly Halloween event put on by CAPA. Children and adults are invited to wear costumes and explore the Palace Theatre, which will be decorated for the season. In addition to trick-or-treating, guests can also grab a craft, take photos at selfie stations, view a Day of the Dead display and more. “Creatures,” courtesy of Ohio School of Falconry and characters from Castle on a Cloud Entertainment, will be on hand. Trick-or-treat bags will be available, but guests are welcome to bring their own bags or buckets. Tickets are not required for this free event.

• 2023 CAPA Trick or Treat at The Palace Theater (Photo Courtesy: Dan Mitchell/Mitchell Multimedia)
• 2023 CAPA Trick or Treat at The Palace Theater (Photo Courtesy: Dan Mitchell/Mitchell Multimedia)
• 2023 CAPA Trick or Treat at The Palace Theater (Photo Courtesy: Dan Mitchell/Mitchell Multimedia)

WestFest 2025, West Campus Science & Sustainability Festival

Ohio State University West Campus Quad, Saturday, Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• A free, family-friendly event showcasing science and sustainability. WestFest is designed to encourage kids to get interested in STEM fields. Hands-on activities, behind-the-scenes tours, and a food truck will be set in the university's West Campus Quad.

Blue Jackets vs. Washington Capitals, Grateful Dead takeover night

Nationwide Arena, Friday, Oct. 24, 7 p.m.
• The CBJ is hosting a Grateful Dead Night at Nationwide Arena. Hockey fans can celebrate the Grateful Dead with a special ticket package and live music from Terrapin Moon. The band will perform on the main concourse before the game when doors open at 6 p.m. sharp, during both intermissions, and after the game. Each ticket purchased with a special ticket package will include an exclusive CBJ/Grateful Dead Jersey.

'The Shawshank Redemption'

Willis Theatre, 74, West William Street, Delaware, Friday through Sunday, Oct. 24 to 26
• When Andy Dufresne is convicted of murder and sentenced to life in the notorious Shawshank prison, he must find a way to keep himself and his hope alive by using his wits and forging friendships. Based on the novella by Stephen King, The Shawshank Redemption brings the story of resilience made famous by the acclaimed film to the stage. Tickets are $15.

• Friday, 7 p.m.
• Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Sunday, 2 p.m.

Photo Courtesy/Arena Fair Theatre Co. Fright at the Museum

Ohio History Center, Saturday, Oct. 25, 6 to 9 p.m., timed entries at 6, 6:15, 6:30 and 6:45 p.m.
• The Ohio History Connection will celebrate the Halloween season with Fright at the
Museum. Guests will discover the spooky side of Ohio’s history as they learn about
creatures of the night alongside the Ohio Wildlife Center, test their acting chops with
vintage horror movie reels and step back in time with a mid-century Monster Mash at
the 1950s-era Lustron Home inside the museum, plus more. Admission is $18 for adults, $14 for children ages 4 to 12, and free for children ages 3 and under. Member pricing is $13 for adults,
$9 for children. History Connection premium members receive free admission.

• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)

HighBall Halloween

High Street from Goodale Street to Nationwide Boulevard, Saturday, Oct. 25, from 6 to midnight
• HighBall Halloween is the nation’s most elaborate costume party. With free general admission, locals and visitors alike can celebrate the art of costume and the vibrancy of Columbus’s fashion scene. Official HighBall Halloween 2025 host, Virginia West, along with NBC4’s Matt Barnes and Joe Speir will get visitors in the Halloween spirit as exciting live performances enter the spotlight. Tickets for the VIP Party, Weekend Access Passes and the FCCFA Spooky Suites can be purchased at highballcolumbus.org.

Highball Halloween 2022, Photo by Tony Bentivegna Photography Purity Ring

Newport Music Hall, Saturday, Oct. 25, doors open at 7 p.m.
• Trailblazing electronic pop duo Purity Ring, on their “Place Of My Own Tour,” will perform at Newport Music Hall. Purity Ring released their self-titled album on Sept. 26. For this release, they’ve developed an imaginary place — inspired by the record's production and narrative. Their new show is built on this otherworldly landscape, immersing fans in this world alongside them. General admission is $43.85, including fees and taxes. 

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Genoa Park, Sunday, Oct. 26, event opens at 10 a.m.
• A noncompetitive walk and community celebration. The event will be held rain or shine. Attendees can expect an inspiring day of celebrating survivors, honoring our loved ones, and free, mission-driven family fun. This year will be the event's 18th anniversary. There are new 5K and 1-mile walk route options and a post-walk party until 2 p.m.

UnderCurrent: Walk, Roll, and Play

High Street from Long to Town Streets, Sunday, Oct. 26, noon to 4 p.m.
• UnderCurrent: Walk, Roll and Play, will transform High Street for a day of car-free activity. This free event features an expanded footprint along High Street from Long to Town Streets. A giant inflatable slide will be located in front of the Ohio Statehouse, along with inflatable pickleball courts, yoga and Pilates classes, a pop-up roller rink, and dance performances. In addition, there is the Roll Lane (a dedicated lane for bikes, scooters, rollerblades), pop-up workout classes, live art demonstrations, local business activations, food trucks and more.

• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Ohio House of Representatives took on property taxes Wednesday afternoon, passing two bills aimed at relieving tax burdens and attempting to head off a looming ballot initiative that seeks to eliminate property taxes altogether.

House Bills 186 and 335 earned tepid support from some House Democrats, while others railed against the bills for not going far enough. 

House Bill 186, sponsored by Reps. David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Jim Hoops (R-Napoleon), creates an Inflation Cap Credit, limiting increases in property taxes above the rate of inflation. The sponsors claim this would save Ohio property owners $1.7 billion over the next three years. See an earlier report on Ohio's Property Tax Reform Work Group in the video player above.

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“Members, $1.7 billion — that is the amount of money over the next three years if we do not pass House Bill 186, that is the amount of taxpayer dollars that will be paid by our property owners above inflation due to the 20-mill floor, due to increased property values and a policy at the school level that we at the legislature are ultimately responsible for,” Thomas said. “And if we are responsible for setting the law of the land for Ohio, $1.7 billion is the amount we can tell our taxpayers, ‘You are not paying.’” 

House Bill 335, also sponsored by Thomas, caps the rate of inside millage levies, which can be imposed by local governments without voter approval. The inside millage cap would also keep property taxes tied to the rate of inflation. 

“What’s happened over the years is inside millage taxation has massively increased and, as we’ve talked about, it’s unvoted,” said Rep. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield). “We can say that every property taxpayer in the state of Ohio will benefit from the passage of House Bill 335.” 

Some Democrats, however, argued that both measures would benefit property taxpayers who don’t actually live in Ohio. 

“Taxpayers in my district of Lucas County would see absolutely zero property tax relief under House Bill 186,” said Rep. Elgin Rogers, Jr. (D-Toledo). “About half of Ohioans who do not live in a 20-mill floor district will see no change in their property taxes. … For the other half of Ohioans, who actually live in a district at the twenty mill floor, the everyday Ohioan will possibly see just $13 a month in relief. Something’s better than nothing, right? But those folks who are out-of-state investors and major property owners will see thousands, thousands of dollars of property tax relief monthly.” 

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Democrat Daniel Troy of Willowick voted in favor of both bills but warned they would not be enough to blunt the momentum behind a ballot initiative to abolish property taxes. 

“If we think that this is somehow property tax relief for everyday Ohioans or heading off the constitutional amendment to abolish property taxes, we’re kidding ourselves,” Troy said. “I think this is like pouring a cup of water on a forest fire. We’ve got a heck of a lot more to do.” 

Having been passed by the House, both measures will now go to the Senate for consideration. 

BELLEFONTAINE, Ohio (WCMH) — A Columbus woman is dead after a three-vehicle crash occurred in Logan County Wednesday afternoon.

At approximately 4:13 p.m., The Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to a crash on U.S. Route 33 East in Jefferson Township, just east of Bellefontaine. The crash involved two commercial vehicles and a passenger car, a 2018 Kia Rio, which was disabled in the left lane of the highway.

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A 2020 Mack dump truck traveling eastbound failed to stop for the disabled vehicle and struck the Kia from behind. The Kia was vaulted into the right lane and collided with a 2021 International tractor-trailer.

The Mack truck overturned, spilling gravel along the roadway, and traveled off the right side of the road. The International truck also traveled off the right side of the road and overturned, while the Kia came to rest in the same area.

The driver of the Kia, 26-year-old Ismahan Abdikadir Nagati, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the dump truck was air-lifted to a Columbus hospital with serious injuries, while the driver of the tractor-trailer was taken to a Marysville hospital with minor injuries.

All eastbound lanes on U.S. 33 were closed while the crash scene was being investigated and cleared. The OSHP was assisted by the Logan County Sheriff's Office, the Ohio Department of Transportation, Perry Township Fire & EMS, Bellefontaine Fire & EMS, and Huntsville Fire & EMS.

PLAIN CITY, Ohio (WCMH) -- Jonathan Alder Local Schools are hoping voters will approve a $70.6 million bond issue to create a new 6-12 grade campus.

The district said the expansions are necessary to address rising enrollment. If approved, the 5.12-mills bond issue would fund a new junior high, expand existing buildings and help balance facility capacity. The district would then reconfigure grade levels, creating a 6-12 campus and more room for elementary students.

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"Waiting doesn't stop the growth. It doesn't change our need," school board President Sonia Walker said. "It only equates to higher taxpayer investment in the future, and we want to avoid that."

The district expects to add 469 new students to its 2,300 student body over the next 10 years, more than a 20% increase. The district hopes the new construction will bring each building to 80% capacity, creating a more balanced learning environment across the district.

In May, Jonathan Alder tried to pass the same 5.12-mills bond issue, and almost succeeded. The May ballot issue failed 50.5%-49.5%, and the district is optimistic that things may go better in November. See previous coverage of May's bond issue in the video player above.

Jonathan Alder said its high school and Plain City Elementary are both already at capacity, and Walker said all other buildings are nearing capacity. With the $70,625,000 the bond issue would generate, the district would make Monroe and Plain City elementaries kindergarten through third-grade buildings, freeing up space without fourth and fifth grades.

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Fourth and fifth graders would then move to Canaan Middle School, which would convert to an upper elementary building with a four-classroom addition. The middle school students would learn in the district's new junior high, serving grades six through eight.

District plans would attach the new junior high to Jonathan Alder High School. The high school would also get an eight-classroom addition. The existing junior high building would be repurposed for district office space and possible preschool classrooms.

The district said delaying construction would make it more expensive, as construction costs are expected to increase by $2 million each year. Jonathan Alder considered short-term options like redistricting or bringing in temporary classrooms, but found they had "significant downsides."

If the bond issue fails, the district said families may be reassigned to different schools, and elementary students within the same families and neighborhoods may be assigned to different buildings. Redistricting and overflow fixes would also increase transportation costs and increase time spent on bus routes.

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The district said it will also have to spend money on short-term fixes, adding costs that would not be necessary if the issue were to pass. The district said a "much-requested" variety of electives, like agricultural education, will not be feasible without expanded facilities.

If approved, the bond issue would cost taxpayers $179 per $100,000 of a taxpayers' county appraised property value. However, residents on land that qualifies for current agricultural use valuation (CAUV) pay differently, and will owe $5.22 per acre.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Talk show host Stephen Colbert recently poked fun at an Ohio lawmaker for his proposed legal personhood and marriage ban for artificial intelligence systems. 

During a segment about AI on The Late Show this week, Colbert brought up House Bill 469, sponsored by Rep. Thaddeus Claggett (R-Licking County). The legislation would prohibit AI systems from being recognized as people and ban the technology from marrying a human or another AI system. 

“An Ohio lawmaker’s wife left him for a chatbot,” Colbert joked after bringing up the bill. 

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“This piece of legislation comes from Ohio representative Thaddeus Claggett,” Colbert continued. “No wonder he’s against technology, his name is 200 years old. You know his campaign slogan: Thaddeus Claggett, ‘Gol’ Darn Prairie Dog Stole My Hat Again!’” 

Colbert then pulled up a photo of Claggett before saying “that doesn’t look right, can we run that through AI?” The same portrait was displayed again, this time with Claggett edited to wear a hat, sport a beard and have a piece of straw in his mouth.

Claggett addressed the segment in a Facebook post on Wednesday, writing that he would like to use it as an opportunity to talk more about his bill. He said while the legislation has been "sensationalized" as “anti-AI marriage,” it would establish a framework of liability for AI. 

“I wouldn’t normally share something from a liberal like Colbert, but I thought this was funny – probably the first time he’s been funny all year, which would explain why CBS canceled his show,” Claggett wrote. 

The lawmaker said the most important thing the bill would do is ensure developers and users of AI cannot absolve themselves of responsibility if the technology causes harm. 

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“We also want to make sure that these things can never be given control over decisions that should be made by a competent human,” Claggett said in the post. “This bill is intended as a preemptive measure.”

Claggett previously told NBC4 that the part of the bill addressing marriage would help prevent AI from taking on roles commonly held by spouses, such as holding power of attorney or making financial or medical decisions on another’s behalf.

“People need to understand, we’re not talking about marching down the aisle to some tune and having a ceremony with the robot that’ll be on our streets here in a year or two,” he said. “That could happen, but that’s not really what we’re saying.” 

Under the legislation, AI could also not own or control real estate, intellectual property or financial accounts. It bans the technology from serving in management, director or officer roles in companies as well.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Democrat Sherrod Brown has brought in $8 million since launching his comeback campaign, while Sen. Jon Husted set a fundraising record for a Republican in an Ohio U.S. Senate race.

Brown's $8 million total "was powered by an army of grassroots donors," his campaign said in an Oct. 14 news release, with 97% of individual donations under $100 and an average grassroots contribution of $24.36. The former senator raised $7 million directly into his campaign and an additional $1 million into affiliated joint fundraising committees.

"Ohioans from every corner of the state are rallying behind Sherrod's campaign," said Patrick Eisenhauer, Friends of Sherrod Brown campaign manager, in the release. "Twenty-five thousand hardworking Ohioans, from across all 88 counties, have already chipped in because they know Sherrod always puts Ohio families first."

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Husted's third-quarter fundraising totaled $3.7 million, "the highest amount ever raised by a Republican candidate at this stage of a U.S. Senate race in Ohio," his campaign said in an Oct. 14 news release. The newly minted senator has grown his fundraising totals by roughly $1 million each quarter, "demonstrating enthusiasm fueled by Ohioans who believe in his mission," his campaign said.

"We continue to see record enthusiasm for Senator Husted's campaign," said Tyson Shepard, the Husted campaign's communications director, in the release. "Our fundraising success reflects strong support from every corner of the state and shows that Jon is building the operation needed to win decisively in 2026."

Brown announced his comeback bid in August, less than a year after narrowly losing reelection in 2024 to Sen. Bernie Moreno. The Democrat's campaign previously said it raised $3.6 million in the first 24 hours after his announcement. Husted began his campaign in April and was sitting on more than $2.6 million in fundraising while waiting for Brown to enter the race.

Polling released Monday found Brown and Husted in a near deadlock. Data from a Bowling Green State University Democracy and Public Policy Research Network poll of 800 registered Ohio voters shows Brown barely leads the race over Husted, at 49%-48%. This marks a change from August, when Emerson College Polling had Husted with a six-point lead.

Brown boasts endorsements from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters and the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters, alongside the Ohio Federation of Teachers and the Ohio Association of Public School Employees.

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Husted's endorsements include Republican gubernatorial favorite Vivek Ramaswamy, President Donald Trump, the Northwest Ohio Building & Construction Trades Council, and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18 and 66 chapters.

Several lesser-known candidates are also vying for the Democratic nomination against Brown. However, those candidates haven't released their fundraising totals. They include entrepreneur Fred Ode, software designer and Special Olympics volunteer Ron Kincaid, U.S. Air Force veteran Lynnea Lau, and small business owner and game developer Chris Volpe.

Greg Levy, a community organizer and veteran, announced on Wednesday that he is running for Senate seat under the Party for Socialism and Liberation.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Beechcroft High School's football season is officially over, cut short due to safety concerns.

The Beechcroft Cougars were supposed to take the field Friday for their final regular season game – and Senior Night -- but that matchup against Northland won't happen.

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"It really felt like this was going to be the one we were going to win, so having this game stripped from us really hurt," Beechcroft High School football senior Sherwin Armistead said.

For many players, this was the final chapter of their season, and for seniors, their high school careers. Instead, they're watching it end from the sidelines. 

"Let us play," Beechcroft High School football senior Harlem Walker said. "That's all we want to do. That's all we've been wanting to do. Our whole year has been riding up to this moment, and it's a core memory for us that we just want to experience."

Senior football players said they didn't expect their season to end this way.

"Especially going up against our team rival, this game meant a lot to us," Armistead said. 

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The decision comes just days after two juveniles were shot Saturday night near the high school. According to Columbus police, multiple people were seen exiting a black Honda SUV and fired shots at multiple individuals. 

"As a team captain, that hurts a lot because those two players were our key players right there and it's sad to hear that they're the ones that got hit with the bullet," Beechcroft High School football senior Jaymir Radford said.

Police and the Columbus City Schools District have yet to confirm the victim's identities.

"They want to play for those injured boys," parent Janice Cubbage said. "So, I don't agree with the game being canceled. I don't agree with how it's being handled."

The district released a statement regarding the season's cancellation:

"Due to an ongoing concern directly involving the safety of Beechcroft High School football student-athletes, the Beechcroft team’s season will conclude with the last game of play being the week 9 HOME game on October 17, 2025. This means the game between Beechcroft HS v. Northland HS scheduled for October 24, 2025 will not occur, resulting in a forfeit loss for Beechcroft. The safety of Columbus City School’s students is always our first priority, and the Superintendent approved the request of Beechcroft’s Principal and the District’s leadership team."

"Just let us play," Radford said. "It don't have to be at our field. It don't have to be at Northland's field. We could go to like the old Columbus Crew stadium, that has maximum security."

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According to players, they feel robbed and were looking forward to continuing their winning streak. 

"We were just really in our groove, and we can't do anything about it," Walker said. "It's like you have it right there in your hands and it's just taken from you."

Beechcroft's principal held a meeting on Wednesday night with players and parents, according to those NBC4 spoke with. They said the principal stood firm on his decision. 

"In the meeting, he said that the boys were targeted, that the shooter asked, ‘Did you play football? Yes or no?’ And that they shot," Cubbage said.

According to the district, the superintendent signed off on the principal's request to end the season early.

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"I want the future for all children," Cubbage said. "I'm a mom of two. I want everybody to be safe going forward. So, I told him, 'What is it in the budget for CPD to be here at these games? What is the budget?' I was told is outside of his pay grade, so I don't know if he has reached out to them."

According to the seniors, they were told by the principal that they'd be honored on a different night. In the meantime, Friday's cancelled game will go down as a forfeit loss for Beechcroft.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Felony Assault Unit at 614-645-4323 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477 to leave an anonymous tip.

BEXLEY, Ohio (WCMH) - Otterbein University and Capital University continue their historic rivalry on the gridiron Saturday. 

The two schools are connected by more than the city of Columbus. Alum Creek runs from Westerville in the north down through Bexley. 

"The start of the rivalry is lost to the mists of time. We assume that it goes back, though, to the late 1800s, when there would be canoe races down Alum Creek. It might have also been a religious thing. We were United Brethren. They were Lutheran. And so, you know, we can't let that other church beat us," explained Otterbein Archivist Stephen Grinch. "As our sports began to develop in the late 19th, early 20th century, we found ourselves developing a very healthy rivalry with that school down in Bexley," Grinch said.

The rivalry has gone through ebbs and flows with different generations, said Grinch. "The rivalry has taken many different shapes over the years. Sometimes it's as simple as just flying a flag that says 'Screw Cap'. Am I allowed to say that on television?" Grinch joked.

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The Otterbein/Capital rivalry pre-dates Ohio State's rivalry with Michigan. The first game played between Otterbein and Capital was a 60-0 win by Otterbein in 1894, though it isn't counted on the official record because football wasn't yet an official varsity sport at Capital. Ohio State didn't play Michigan for the first time until three years later in 1897.

"It's the small school experience. It's one thing to be a part of a big rivalry like the OSU Michigan rivalry. That's a wonderful thing. But it's also kind of impersonal. Whereas here at a smaller school, you bring people together, closer together," Grinch said. "Even though we are rival schools, there's still that bond and camaraderie. It's a lot smaller. It's a lot friendlier. And, I think it's a lot more fun, quite frankly," said Grinch, who has worked at Otterbein for 27 years after he called the school home as a student.

The rivalry has seen plenty of mischief over the years.

"Back in the early 70s, the band director Gary Tirey would have all of the school flags flown by the band at pregame and Capital's would, of course, always be upside down. We once managed to take down their goalpost, I think in the mid 60s. They were caught unfortunately, and they all had to spend a night in jail before our, Dean of Students went down to bail them out," Grinch said.

"They took the goalpost they tore down, and they cut it into rounds, and they painted them. And they sold them to the student body at Otterbein. And that's how they raised the money to pay back the Dean of Students," Grinch explained with a smile.

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The President of the university's home was on Otterbein's campus and featured a sunken garden that, to the untrained eye, was hard to spot, especially in the dark.

"They were doing some mischief on the tower's front lawn, and a bunch of our guys saw them and started chasing them. Well, they'd made a beeline for the president's front lawn. President J. Gordon Howard said that he looked out his front window to see what the commotion was, and one by one, he watched as these Capital students run full speed and then, fall. Right into the sunken garden," Grinch said.

The rivalry takes on another chapter Saturday at 1:30 p.m. as Otterbein's football and men's soccer teams travel to Capital while volleyball and women's soccer host Capital.

Capital University Athletic Director Darrell Bailey is working to restore the old rivalry.

"It's been exciting. It's one of those things that we're trying to really reinvigorate. It's the sense of community because we want to evolve it into more than just the game. So currently it's the play, and it's each sport has their own version of this," Bailey said. "So, the next step of that is to add on academics. Then the community is involved, academics is involved as well as sport, because that's the embodiment of what Division three is all about," he said.

The schools battle in each sport for 'The Oar', an homage to the students of the late 1800's who would race canoes down Alum Creek.

"Why change something that's happened well before us? Why not embody it and make it something that both teams can, resemble and understand," Bailey said.

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Otterbein holds the Oar, at least until Saturday. But Bailey said he has other expectations for Saturday's game.

"A victory, I expect the young men on the football team to come out with a vengeance, to be ready to play and put it on. To let them know that this is the year of the Capital," Bailey said with a smile.

Otterbein's football team enters the matchup with an 0-6 record while Capital is 2-4. Otterbein's only win in 2024 came in the rivalry game against Capital.

Grinch, who will surely remind his Capital friends of Otterbein's previous win, wanted to make sure everyone collects history while it happens.

"Write down your stories, label your photographs, and don't make scrapbooks," Grinch said.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- As the weather in central Ohio gets colder, the Ohio Department of Transportation is making sure it is ready for the winter months.

On Wednesday, the department staged its annual winter readiness event.

The department goes through a safety process and conducts and inspection for all trucks taking on the winter roads. Plow drivers went through a 150-point inspection of each truck, checking things like the plow blade, the salt spinner and brakes.

The inspections are to help protect both plow drivers and other vehicles on the road during winter conditions.

"We're doing our checks, everything that is necessary, something that we always like to focus on is safety," Morgan Eibel said. "Last year in the 2024-2025 winter season, our plows were struck 54 times, so that's 54 more times than they should have been struck. We always want that number to be as close to zero as possible."

Each ODOT garage has one of these winter preparedness days so plow anywhere in Ohio are ready to go in a moment's notice.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Everything old is new again at this year's Art for Life.

The charity art auction started in 1989 and has raised millions to support the HIV and AIDS services provided by Equitas Health. It has been held every other year for nearly four decades as an evening gala, but for the first time, it will take place during the day as a Sunday brunch. Also for the first time, the artists themselves will benefit financially.

Co-chair and former director of the Columbus Museum of Art, Nannette Maciejunes, said a special fund was donated to give artists 10% of the final sale price of the artwork they donate.  

"We're calling it Wayne's 10%, because the late Wayne Lawson, who used to run Ohio Arts Council, used to complain endlessly that we ask artists to donate and they get nothing in return," Maciejunes said. 

The fund was donated in Lawson's memory. 

"This is a small gesture back to the artists, but we really think it’s important," she said.

Six galleries and nearly as many restaurants in the Gay and High streets arts district are helping to host the event. Each gallery will display 15 pieces donated for the silent auction. The live auction will take place mid-afternoon inside The Citizens Trust.

Patrons can stroll from gallery to gallery and to the food stations set up along the way. The owner of Lindsay Gallery, Duff Lindsay, said it's a way for gallerists to support an important cause and to showcase the arts district. 

"I often say the biggest job of a gallery owner is not about the art, it’s about getting people in the door. This helps us do that, and in the process, do something for an organization that really deserves support."

Art for Life begins at 11 a.m. Sunday and runs until 4 p.m. You can find information on tickets at this link.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- An alternative to assisted living has been expanding all over the country and now Ohioans have the option too.

The Ohio Department of Aging has been working to expand the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, also known as PACE. On Wednesday morning, BoldAge PACE opened its doors to Franklin County residents.

“I thought to myself, this sounds too good to be true. So I talked to the leaders some more and I thought I'd give it a try and I have not looked back,” said Joyce Spear, Hilliard resident and BoldAge PACE participant.

The center is meant to be a one stop shop for older residents. “Participants are usually folks with a lot of chronic medical conditions that make it difficult for them to function and be independent so we can provide the care and support that they need,” said Mary Austin, CEO of BoldAge PACE.

Adults 55 years and older can get check ups, meals and socialize all in one place. Austin said insurance or Medicaid often covers the cost, aiming to make it as accessible as possible.

“We provide free rides to and from the center to and from all medical appointments and to and from any other activities,” she said.

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The center has started enrolling participants including Spear. She said she relies on bus transportation which made it difficult to make it to different appointments. Now, it’s all under one roof.

“I was taking the bus to every doctor appointment which amounted to tons of time and transportation for maybe a 20-minute appointment,” she said.

Spear said it’s important for her to keep living at home but that also comes with isolation. Now, she comes to the center for meals, activities and to hang out with friends.

“I'm a crafter. I had fun with that to a degree, but being so isolated the fun of it, it just kind of dissipated and now that I'm here, I'm doing crafts and I'm having the time of my life,” Spear said.

BoldAge PACE is partnering with many community organizations to make this program happen including the Mid-Ohio Food Collective and Stonewall Columbus.

“We want to bring PACE to communities, but we need to partner with communities because it really needs to be a program that comes from the people,” Austin said.

Learn more about how to get enrolled here.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Central Ohio first responders and doctors are trying to raise awareness about the increasing number of kids they're seeing get hurt on electric scooters and electric bikes.

"We’ve definitely seen an increase in injuries related to electric bikes and electric scooters. I would say over the last few years it’s been increasing exponentially," said Dr. Chelsea Kadish with Nationwide Children's Hospital.

Kadish, an emergency room doctor at NCH, urged parents to talk with their children about wearing helmets, as she said many patients she's seen were not.

“Emphasizing how important it is to protect the head because head injuries are a lot harder to fix than those cuts and scrapes and broken bones," Kadish said.

The city of Upper Arlington recently released a public service announcement about the issue. Their first responders said they are seeing injuries from crashes on e-bikes or scooters every week. They reminded parents to teach their kids about riding safely and to make sure they know the rules.

“I think there is a little bit of shock sometimes from family members about oh my gosh I can't believe this happened to my child. I had no idea they were out there riding, renting electric scooters and riding them without helmets," Kadish said. "It's more about talking about safety and raising awareness to children, and their parents and just trying to get families to understand these devices come with high risks."

New Albany City Council this week passed new laws related to electric bikes and powered scooters. 

“These are regulations that aren't trying to ban the use but to kind of regulate and make it safe for everybody to use our sidewalks and leisure paths around the community," a councilmember said during the meeting.

The new laws include a helmet requirement for those younger than 18, reflector and light requirements, and a speed limit on shared-use paths.

“Whatever we can do to sort of protect the safety of our children is to the benefit of our population, and I hope as we increase awareness on this topic and get kids to wear their helmets more, that I hope we’ll see fewer of these really severe injuries in the emergency department," Kadish said.

DUBLIN, Ohio (WCMH) -- Dublin City Schools leaders heard from passionate parents Wednesday during three listening sessions about plans to redistrict three high schools.

The decision comes as the Dublin area continues to grow, and thousands of students and families will be affected.

Many parents have not been quiet during the process, with dozens attending the listening sessions held by the district. Some said they aren’t happy with how Dublin has handled redistricting.

“This process is being done backwards,” Dublin parent Alicia Pauling said.

Dublin City Schools began the process of redistricting students in April. Superintendent Dr. John Marschhausen said the process would be data-driven, but Pauling said that’s not how it’s gone so far.

“We are just looking for a fair, transparent and equitable process where decisions are being made based on actual, real data and not emotions or opinions, and I don't feel like that has been done,” Pauling said.

Marschhausen said at an April meeting that a traffic study would be conducted, but the study wasn’t actually done until the end of September, after draft maps were shared with the public.

“When we look at Dublin, traffic is a concern for everyone, and our goal is to try to balance the information we have as we look to create seats for students to be in in high schools in the future,” Marschhausen said.

The superintendent said the district will continue to look at those traffic patterns, but Pauling said the study was done too late. She also said it doesn’t have all the information parents were hoping to see.

“It doesn’t include teen driver crash data. It doesn't include ODOT safety data, it doesn't include specific commuter routes that are being analyzed,” Pauling said.

At a Wednesday morning listening session alone, district leaders heard from 30 parents. Marschhausen said everything they hear at these sessions will be taken into consideration. He also said it was concerns that had been brought up before.

“I think our community has done a phenomenal job communicating with us,” he said. “A lot of the things we've heard today are the same things we've heard in emails and communications and conversations over the past several weeks.”

Pauling said the listening sessions are a step in the right direction but she still isn’t sure parents will actually be heard. She doesn’t believe anything has been done right in the redistricting process so far and would like the district to start the process over.

“They will say ‘we listened,’ but then nothing potentially will be addressed, or the predetermined outcome that we think is going to happen will happen anyway,” Pauling said. “It’s hard to trust the process.”

The superintendent said no decisions have been made yet and parental input will be at the front of district leaders’ minds.

The Board of Education will hold a meeting on Wednesday to discuss the feedback received at the listening sessions. Marschhausen said the goal is to release the final map by Nov. 10.