Brett Hillyer

Brett Hillyer is a former American politician who served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, representing the 98th district from 2019 to 2022. A member of the Republican Party, Hillyer was involved in various legislative activities during his tenure and was associated with significant events in Ohio's political landscape, particularly concerning energy legislation and political alliances.

Early life and career

Brett Hillyer was born on June 7, 1987. He pursued higher education at the University of Akron and later attended Ohio Northern University, where he obtained his law degree. Following his academic achievements, Hillyer began his professional career in law, serving as the city prosecutor and law director for Uhrichsville, Ohio. In this capacity, he played a significant role in implementing land banking initiatives within the community, which aimed to address issues related to vacant and abandoned properties.

Hillyer's legal background and experience in local governance provided him with a foundation for his entry into state politics. In 2018, the opportunity arose for him to run for the Ohio House of Representatives when incumbent state Representative Al Landis was unable to seek re-election due to term limits. Hillyer entered a competitive Republican primary, where he faced four other candidates. His campaign was successful, and he secured the Republican nomination for the 98th district. Following the primary, he went on to win the general election in November 2018, marking the beginning of his legislative career.

Legislative service

Brett Hillyer served in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2019 until 2022, completing two distinct terms during his time in office. His district encompassed all of Tuscarawas County and a portion of Holmes County, allowing him to represent a diverse constituency. Throughout his legislative tenure, Hillyer was involved in various legislative initiatives, including those related to energy policy.

One of the most notable pieces of legislation during Hillyer's time in the House was House Bill 6 (HB 6), which was passed in 2019. This energy law became embroiled in controversy and was later linked to a significant corruption scandal in Ohio, known as the Ohio nuclear bribery scandal. The scandal involved allegations of bribery and racketeering, with claims that FirstEnergy Corporation funded a $60 million scheme to influence legislation. Hillyer supported HB 6, which aimed to provide financial support for nuclear power plants in Ohio, a decision that would later draw scrutiny due to the scandal's implications.

Hillyer's association with former House Speaker Larry Householder was also a significant aspect of his legislative career. During the 2018 election cycle, Hillyer was identified as one of the candidates recruited by Householder as part of a strategic effort to regain control of the Ohio House. This group of candidates became known as “Team Householder,” and their successful election enabled Householder to secure enough support to be elected Speaker at the beginning of the 133rd Ohio General Assembly.

In a notable vote during the 134th Ohio General Assembly, Hillyer voted against the expulsion of Larry Householder, who faced federal indictment and subsequent conviction related to the bribery scandal tied to HB 6. The House ultimately voted overwhelmingly in favor of expelling Householder, but Hillyer was among the minority of Republican members who opposed the resolution.

Policy focus and district

During his time in the Ohio House, Hillyer focused on various policy areas, including energy, local governance, and community development. His background as a city prosecutor and law director informed his approach to legislative issues, particularly those affecting local communities. Hillyer's involvement in land banking initiatives during his legal career highlighted his commitment to addressing urban development challenges and improving local infrastructure.

As a representative of the 98th district, Hillyer was tasked with addressing the needs and concerns of his constituents in Tuscarawas and Holmes Counties. His legislative efforts were aimed at promoting economic development and ensuring that local voices were heard in state government. Hillyer's support for energy legislation, particularly HB 6, reflected a broader interest in energy policy and its implications for Ohio's economy and environment.

Throughout his legislative service, Hillyer maintained a connection to his community, residing in Uhrichsville, Ohio, with his wife, Anna Hillyer, and their family. His personal and professional experiences shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by residents in his district, guiding his legislative priorities and decisions.

In summary, Brett Hillyer served as a Republican member of the Ohio House of Representatives from 2019 to 2022, representing the 98th district. His background in law and local governance informed his legislative work, particularly in areas related to energy policy and community development. Hillyer's tenure was marked by significant events in Ohio's political landscape, including his association with House Bill 6 and the controversies surrounding it. His legislative career reflects the complexities of state politics and the challenges faced by elected officials in addressing the needs of their constituents.