+ − Contact Information
Phone: (614) 466-3506
Office Address:
77 S. High StFloor 11 Columbus, OH 43215
+ − Biography
As a farmer, business owner and former county official, Bob Peterson has devoted much of his time and attention to solving the challenges facing our communities. He now brings that same attitude and drive to the Ohio Senate as he works to improve all of Ohio. Bob represents the 17th Ohio Senate District, which encompasses Clinton, Fayette, Gallia, Highland, Jackson, Pike and Ross counties as well as portions of Lawrence, Pickaway and Vinton counties.
A farmer by trade, Senator Peterson and his family are the eighth generation of Petersons to farm in the U.S. Peterson raises corn, soybeans, wheat and livestock on his family’s farm. He also has been active in the Farm Bureau in a variety of leadership positions, culminating to his position as Ohio Farm Bureau President for nearly five years.
In addition to his farming duties, Senator Peterson served as a Fayette County Commissioner for 14 years before being elected to the Ohio House of Representatives in 2011. He joined the Ohio Senate in 2012, where his knowledge and leadership have earned him a seat at the table on the issues that matter most to the families and communities of the 17th Senate District.
Peterson currently serves as the Chairman of the Finance Subcommittee on General Government, where he plays a key role in examining issues related to all aspects of government during the state budget process. He also serves as Vice-Chair of the Ways & Means Committee, and chaired the Tax Reform Subcommittee of Ways & means. He also served as a member of the budget-writing Finance Committee, the Agriculture Committee, the Energy & Natural Resources Committee and the Insurance & Financial Institutions Committee.
Senator Peterson has received numerous awards for his efforts in the Statehouse. Last year, he received the Watchdog of the Treasury award from the United Conservatives, and was also named an Ohio Farm Bureau Friend of Agriculture. Additionally, Peterson was named Legislator of the Year by the Ohio Pest Management Association for his work on House Bill 420 during the 129th General Assembly.
Peterson received his bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University, and is also a graduate of its LEAD Program, an intense two-year agriculture leadership program that features extensive experience in economics, environmental issues and state and national political processes.
Senator Peterson and his wife Lisa are the proud parents of Sarah, Hannah and Todd. The family lives on their farm in Fayette County. They are active in church, 4-H, FFA and other community activities.