Carruthers's Bill Protecting Childcare Centers from Tuberculosis Passes Senate

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Sara Carruthers (R-Hamilton) today announced the Ohio Senate approved House Bill 210, her legislation that establishes safeguards to prevent the spread of tuberculosis in Ohio’s childcare centers.

“Tuberculosis is currently one of the top ten causes of death worldwide,” said Carruthers. “We must remain vigilant to assure TB does not make a comeback in this country as it continues to plague other world countries.”

Under the bill, prospective employees for licensed daycare and preschool centers are required to be screen for tuberculosis as part of the hiring process. In addition, prospective employees who meet certain criteria outlined in the bill must be tested for the disease.

The legislation also allows local health departments or the Ohio Department of Health to receive public recipient information from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services for purposes of a public health investigation.

Carruthers noted a potential outbreak situation at a daycare facility in Hamilton County last year.

“By passing this legislation, we have the opportunity to help keep Ohio’s children safe and healthy, and avoid dangerous situations like the one in Hamilton County last year,” added Carruthers.

The Senate added a number of amendments, including a provision that removes the requirement for certain employees of these facilities to be tested annually for five years.

H.B. 210 passed the Senate with a vote of 29-1. The measure now heads back to the House for a concurrence vote.