A Legislative Update, A Guest Column by Representative Scott Oelslager - Feb. 4, 2020

The House was successful in passing several pieces of legislation last week to revise campground laws and to update the scope of practice for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.

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.

Providing Immunity to Camp Operators for Inherent Camping Risks: House Bill 355 grants limited liability protections for privately owned campgrounds in Ohio. This legislation will grant camp operators qualified immunity from civil liability for any harm to a camper or visitor that results from a risk inherent to camping.

Clarifying the Scope of Practice for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists: House Bill 224 clarifies the scope of practice for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists in Ohio. Under HB 224, CRNAs will be allowed to order drugs, tests, treatments, fluids, and diagnostic tests in the perioperative period. A provision allows supervising physicians to opt-out of the expanded authority for CRNAs. These changes will allow CRNAs to be utilized more by healthcare facilities throughout 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.