Legislative Oversight Bill Heads to Governor

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Rodney Creech (R-West Alexandria) today announced the Ohio General Assembly has approved Senate Bill 22, legislation to establish legislative oversight over orders issued during a state of emergency. 

“The legislature represents the will of the people,” said Creech. “Providing legislative oversight during a state emergency ensures the voices of our constituents and local businesses can be heard.”

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 Orders may be extended or rescinded by the General Assembly.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 session today.