The Gist
State Representative, 74th District
Photo of Bernard Willis
Bernard WillisOfficial portrait — Ohio House

Bernard Willis

Candidate for State Representative, 74th District

RepublicanIncumbent

Background

Occupation
State representative; retired military pilot
Lives in
Springfield

Republican state representative for the 74th District, in his second term, and chair of the House Transportation Committee. A career military pilot who reached the rank of colonel, he later worked as a federal law enforcement officer.

Report

Photo: Official portrait — Ohio House

Documented positions

Public safety

  • Sponsored requiring warrants for police drone surveillance (HB 251).In office

    Signed into law in September 2026, with exceptions such as emergencies, disaster response and traffic investigations.

    Legislation to Address Evolving Technology and Air Mobility Signed into Law

    Government record · Ohio House of Representatives · Sep 15, 2026 · ohiohouse.gov

    “requiring law enforcement to obtain a search warrant before using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance purposes”
    Report

Education

Economy & jobs

Courts & justice

  • Sponsored tougher penalties for armed repeat violent offenders.In office

    The Repeat Offender Act, with Rep. Josh Williams, passed the House in May 2025.

    Willis, Williams Legislation to Curb Violent Crime Passes House

    Government record · Ohio House of Representatives · May 21, 2025 · ohiohouse.gov

    “legislation to increase the penalty for the use of a firearm in the commission of a violent crime has passed the Ohio House”
    Report

All sources (9)

Positions are summarized from the sources listed and are not inferred from party affiliation. Items marked “Provided by” were published by the candidate's verified campaign or party office under our campaign content standards. See something wrong? Use the Report link beside it, or contact us.