The FBI is said to be interested in Rosenberger’s international travel last year with some lobbyists connected to payday lending. Rosenberger has said he believes his actions have been ethical and lawful.
He did not attend a House session on Wednesday, the same day a committee vote on a compromise bill to crack down on payday lending was halted.
Pressure was mounting among Republicans, including Ohio Auditor Dave Yost, for him to leave right away. A spokesman for House leadership said in a statement that now that Speaker Pro Tem Kirk Schuring has assessed the office’s responsibilities and who has the decision-making authority, Schuring felt it was in the best interest of the House that Rosenberger resign immediately.
What's Next After Rosenberger's Resignation?
Fallout continues from House Speaker Cliff Rosenberger’s announcement that he would resign effective May 1, after revealing that there was an FBI inquiry into his activities.
Rosenberger maintains his innocence but says he’s leaving because the matter will keep him and the House from devoting time to important issues. But some are asking questions about what happens now.
Ohio House Republicans balked at passing a bill to reform the payday lending industry just hours after Cliff Rosenberger, the top Republican leader, stepped down amid an FBI inquiry.
Lawmakers are returning to Columbus after spring break amid mounting questions about an FBI inquiry into activities involving Ohio House Speaker Cliff Rosenberger.