Marietta, Ohio — A coalition of nonprofit organizations has filed an ethics complaint against Ohio state Sen. Brian Chavez (R-Marietta), alleging he failed to disclose ownership interests in multiple oil well companies while overseeing energy-related legislation.
The complaint was filed by Washington County for Safe Drinking Water and signed by several groups, including Buckeye Environmental Network, Save Ohio Parks, and FaCT Ohio. The organizations are calling for an “urgent, transparent investigation” into what they describe as serious ethics violations. Chavez currently chairs the Ohio Senate Energy Committee.
According to the complaint, Chavez did not disclose ownership interests in five oil well companies, including Chavez Well Service LLC, which has bid on at least five orphan well contracts since he took office in 2023. The groups argue that Chavez’s financial interests create a conflict with his legislative role, particularly regarding Senate Bill 219.
Senate Bill 219, which passed the Ohio Senate in November, revises state laws governing oil and gas wells and would make $150 million in state funds available for capping orphaned wells. The complaint alleges Chavez used his position to co-sponsor, fast-track, and advocate for the bill while standing to benefit financially if it becomes law.
The filing states that Chavez and his close family members could see increased profits with reduced oversight if the legislation is enacted. The groups argue Chavez should have recused himself from all involvement in the bill. Chavez did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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