Most Important Ideas and Facts:
- Designation of Highway Section: The bill specifically targets a portion of “United States route number thirty-three between county road number one hundred ninety-one and Boundry road, in Auglaize county” for the memorial designation. This clearly defines the geographical area that will bear Lt. Kirkendall’s name.
- Official Name: The designated section of U.S. Route 33 will be officially known as the “Lt. James A. Kirkendall Memorial Highway.” This new name will exist “in addition to any other name prescribed in the Revised Code or otherwise,” meaning it will be a supplementary, honorary designation.
- Role of the Director of Transportation: The bill grants authority to the “director of transportation” to “erect suitable markers along the highway indicating its name.” This provision outlines the responsibility for physically implementing the designation by installing signage.
- Legislative Action: The bill is being enacted through the Ohio General Assembly, specifically as an amendment to the Revised Code by creating “section 5534.427.” This signifies a formal and legal process to establish the memorial highway.
- Sponsors: The bill was introduced by Representatives Klopfenstein and King, indicating their initiative in proposing this honor.
- Timing: The bill is part of the 136th General Assembly, Regular Session, 2025-2026, suggesting the legislative period during which this proposal is under consideration.
Quotes from the Source:
- “To enact section 5534.427 of the Revised Code to designate a portion of U.S. Route 33 in Auglaize County as the ‘Lt. James A. Kirkendall Memorial Highway.’” (Preamble – outlines the purpose of the bill)
- “Sec. 5534.427. In addition to any other name prescribed in the Revised Code or otherwise, the eastbound and westbound lanes of United States route number thirty-three between county road number one hundred ninety-one and Boundry road, in Auglaize county, shall be known as the ‘Lt. James A. Kirkendall Memorial Highway.’” (Section 1 – clearly defines the designated highway and its new name)
- “The director of transportation may erect suitable markers along the highway indicating its name.” (Section 1 – assigns responsibility for signage)
Conclusion:
Ohio House Bill No. 51 is a straightforward piece of legislation aimed at memorializing Lt. James A. Kirkendall by designating a specific portion of U.S. Route 33 in Auglaize County in his honor. The bill clearly identifies the highway section and grants the Director of Transportation the authority to erect appropriate signage. This action reflects a legislative effort to publicly recognize an individual, presumably for their service or contribution to the community, although further information about Lt. James A. Kirkendall would be needed for a more comprehensive understanding of the rationale behind this designation.