Bill Removing Mask Mandate Receives First Hearing

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Jena Powell (R-Arcanum) today gave sponsor testimony on House Bill 202, her legislation that removes the statewide mask mandate in Ohio.

Currently, 24 states do not have a statewide mask mandate. 

“Wearing a face mask should be a personal choice for Ohioans,” said Powell. “In this country, and in this state, we believe in the importance of self-government, and of individual liberty and responsibility.”

House Bill 202 also prohibits any statewide mask mandates by the Governor or any department director during the duration of the COVID-19 state of emergency, unless approved by the General Assembly.

During her testimony, Powell shared numerous stories from Ohioans that expressed their personal troubles with the mask mandate.

“The executive branch of government, for an extended period of time, has been infringing on our rights by mandating every individual’s personal health decisions,” added Powell. 

The bill currently has 23 cosponsors and awaits additional hearings in the House Government Oversight Committee.