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Schmidt Introduces Legislation to Ensure Cleanliness of Aquatic Amusement Rides

April 25, 2022
Jean Schmidt News

COLUMBUS - State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) has introduced House Bill 627, legislation clarifying the roles of the Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Department of Health in regard to maintaining Ohio’s aquatic amusement rides. 

“Ohio currently doesn’t clarify where aquatic amusement rides fall within the jurisdiction of either department,” said Schmidt. “As a result, Ohio has seen disease outbreaks at multiple aquatic amusement parks around the state. This bill seeks to clarify that ambiguity.”

Under the bill, the Ohio Department of Health will inspect the water quality of the pools into which the rides empty to prevent the spread of waterborne disease, while the Ohio Department of Agriculture will continue to be responsible for the inspection of the mechanical portions of the ride to ensure safety. 

Designation of responsibilities was based on duties already performed by the different departments. Since ODH already tests water quality in various public pools around the state, it was awarded jurisdiction over the pools the aquatic amusement rides empty into. 

“I believe it is important that those who are best qualified in a given field are the ones inspecting or testing amusement rides,” added Schmidt. 

The measure now awaits referral to a House committee.