Episode 13-State Rep. Tristan Rader: How Ohio Just Took Down Big Utility Corruption

In this episode of Zero Distortion, State Representative Tristan Rader joins Russ Bates to break down his first major legislative victory: HB 15, a sweeping, bipartisan clean energy reform law that repeals Ohio’s corrupt coal subsidies from HB 6, introduces new solar energy financing for schools, and puts real guardrails on utility billing practices.

Tristan shares what it’s like transitioning from local politics to the Ohio Statehouse, how the national political climate is bleeding into state-level policymaking, and why the fight for clean, affordable energy is far from over. We dive into utility accountability, energy system fragility, misinformation around renewables, and how federal threats to clean energy policy could impact states like Ohio. This is a real, honest look at what it takes to make change from the inside—and what gives Tristan hope despite all the noise.

🔋 Topics include: Repealing HB 6 coal subsidies HB 15 and Ohio’s new solar loan program Clean energy vs. utility monopolies Federal policy chaos and state-level resistance Political misinformation, ALEC influence, and energy grid realities What gives Rep. Rader hope—and how to take action

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📩 Contact Tristan at: Rep13@ohiohouse.gov

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