Gross Announces Legislative Oversight Bill Heads to Governor

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester) today announced the Ohio General Assembly has approved Senate Bill 22, legislation that establishes legislative oversight over orders issued during a state of emergency. 

“Proper checks and balances are vital to the functioning of our government,” said Gross, who co-sponsored the bill. “This common-sense legislation ensures the voices of Ohioans are heard and provides greater government transparency.”

Provisions in the bill give the legislature the ability to oversee orders issued by any department under the administration in response to public health emergencies. Orders may be extended or rescinded by the General Assembly.

The bill also ensures that local communities may determine the course of local health orders. As a result, the bill provides parameters for local boards of health in which they must operate when issuing county and district wide orders.

The measure passed the House by a vote of 57-37 and received final approval from the Senate during yesterday’s session.