Protecting What Matters: A Podcast by the Ohio Department of Commerce

Business owners and consumers around the state of Ohio have questions about the Division of Cannabis Control’s first set of proposed rules. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we sit down with Superintendent Jim Canepa and the division’s chief counsel Andrew Makoski to talk through who can receive licenses, the timeline for awarding licenses, and why it remains a benefit to be a medical marijuana patient. For more information on this new division within Commerce, please visit our FAQ.

We explore Ohio's Video Service Authorization Program in this podcast, you’ll discover what we do for cable customers who are having issues with their cable providers.

Linda Pausch, our program administrator, shares when we can help consumers, how to contact us and the step-by-step process of filing a complaint. Learn more by visiting, com.ohio.gov/vsa

Whether you're a business owner seeking certification or an everyday Ohioan curious about how safety standards are upheld in our state, the Bureau of Testing and Registration is your go-to resource. With a commitment to transparency, efficiency, and above all, the safety of Ohioans, the Bureau works tirelessly to make its services easily understandable and reachable for all.

On January 1, 2024, Ohio’s minimum wage will increase to $10.45 for non-tipped employees and $5.25 for tipped employees. In this episode, our Bureau of Wage and Hour Chief Steve Clegg talks about how the minimum is set year-to-year, what employees and businesses need to know as it increases, and how the Bureau of Wage and Hour works to ensure Ohioans are paid for the hours that they work. For more information, please visit https://com.ohio.gov/divisions-and-programs/industrial-compliance/wage-and-hour

Our Division of Financial Institutions Consumer Affairs Manager Viktoria Jurkovic, talks about strategies, tips and tricks for educating your kids this holiday season. We discuss how to approach gift giving with your kids in a financially focused way. Join us for an educational discussion on how to ensure the whole family is happy without breaking the bank, and stay on top of your finances while celebrating. Listen now!

From stuffed toys to your Halloween decorations, the OhioDepartment of Commerce is working to keep you safe this Halloween and all year round. On this episode of Protecting What Matters, hear how Division of Industrial Compliance’s Bedding Section ensures the safety of stuffed toys and bedding items, and hear valuable Halloween safety information from the Divisionof State Fire Marshal.

The Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal Fire & Explosion Investigations Bureau’s mission is to combat the crime of arson. Arson is a destructive act which involves setting fire to property and can result in devastating consequences, including loss of life, property damage, and economic loss. The intentional setting of fires can cause fear and terror and/or can be used to intimidate or harm communities.  In this episode, you’ll learn about why CSI-style TV shows aren’t a total picture of investigations, why arson dogs may get on a treadmill, how Ring doorbells are making a difference, and much more.

Join us in this episode as we explore the Volunteer Fire Service Task Force Report, packed with innovative recommendations to bolster Ohio's volunteer fire departments. Discover how these proposals focus on recruitment, training, and financial stability to support Ohio’s communities.

September is Realtor Safety Month! We're dedicated to ensuring real estate professionals have the tools and knowledge to stay safe while helping Ohio homebuyers find their dream home. DaphneHawk, superintendent from Commerce’s real estate and professional licensing division, and Ralph Mantica, president of Ohio Realtors, talks about how and why safety plays a significant role in real estate work right now and truly year-round. Listen in to learn some safety tips and resources to help keep everyone safe in the homebuying process.

Wait until you hear some of these stories from those who found money! The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Unclaimed Funds is holding nearly $4 billion in unclaimed funds. Hear from the division’s experts on how the money is collected and how you can get it back into your pockets.