A Legislative Update, A Guest Column by Representative Scott Oelslager - Feb. 24, 2020
The House was successful in passing several pieces of legislation two weeks ago including bills to give first responders PTSD coverage under the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and to establish the Chiropractic Loan Repayment Program.
My colleagues in the Ohio House and I work hard to improve the lives of the Ohioans we represent, and I appreciate the opportunity to update you on these and other issues before us in the legislature.
Workers’ Compensation Coverage and Disability Retirement for PTSD: House Bill 308 would make a peace office, firefighter, and emergency medical worker diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder arising from employment eligible for compensation benefits under Ohio’s Workers’ Compensation law. I cosponsored this bill because I believe it’s important to support the first responders who risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe.
Designating Aortic Aneurysm Awareness Day: I co-sponsored House Bill 364 to designate February 13 as “Aortic Aneurysm Awareness Day.” An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement or bulging of the wall of the aorta. Early diagnosis of an aneurysm is critical to managing the condition and reducing the risk of rupture. House Bill 364 passed out of the House unanimously.
The Chiropractic Loan Repayment Program: Substitute House Bill 151 creates the Ohio Chiropractic Loan Repayment Program. Under the program, in exchange for loan repayment assistance, Doctors of Chiropractic commit to providing chiropractic services in a designated chiropractic health resource shortage area for a minimum of two years and see patients regardless of their ability to pay. In return, selected applicants may receive up to $10,000 annually for repayment of outstanding chiropractic school debt.
The Community Bank Tax Relief Act: Substitute House Bill 150 provides tax relief to all financial institutions, but provides a targeted 50% tax reduction to community banks. Over the last decade, Ohio has lost 76 banks due to closures or mergers. This bill aims to help community banks prosper.
Preventing Accidental Drug Overdose: House Bill 341 expands on existing law to allow for the use of injectable medication-assisted treatments in combatting opioid use disorders. This legislation increases a patient’s access to addiction treatment in a way that is safe and overseen by medical professionals. House Bill 341 passed unanimously.
Designating Multiple Memorial Highways and Bridges: The House agreed to the House Bill 276 Conference Committee report, which designates multiple memorial highways and bridges across the state.
In everything I do, whether it is in Columbus or back in my home district of Stark County, I will continue to make your priorities my priorities. With that goal in mind, I welcome your feedback and opinions at any time. Please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (614) 752-2438, emailing Rep48@OhioHouse.gov, or by writing me at 77 South High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215.