Ohio House approves Reps. Cross and Wilkin's Business Fairness Act

State Reps. Jon Cross (R-Kenton) and Shane Wilkin (R-Hillsboro) announced Friday the Ohio House has approved House Bill 215, their legislation that allows any business that can comply with safety standards from government orders or regulations to stay open.

The measure, known as the Business Fairness Act, provides businesses with stability and ease of mind in the future by ensuring all businesses are deemed essential. It promotes competitive fairness among big and small businesses by giving any business the ability to maintain operations during a public health emergency. 

“During the statewide shutdown, large retailers were allowed to have hundreds, if not thousands, of people in their stores daily, but I couldn’t shop at a locally owned business selling the same product,” said Wilkin. “This legislation allows them to stay open provided they meet the proper guidelines and safety standards.”

The bill was originally introduced last year as House Bill 621 and passed the Ohio House with bipartisan support.

“Small business owners had their worlds turned upside down when they were forced to shut down last year,” added Cross. “Getting this bill signed into law will send a strong message that Ohio will remain open for business and keep our economy moving forward.” 

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.