Guest Column: A Legislative Update by Representative Scott Oelslager

The House was successful in passing several pieces of legislation, on Wednesday, May 12, including measures to expand Medicaid coverage, increase township police officer’s traffic authority, revise privately owned campgrounds protections, and expand Public Records Law. 

Medicaid Coverage: House Bill 136 expands Medicaid program’s coverage of chiropractic services to include Evaluation and Management (E/M) services by a licensed chiropractor. E/M services occur on the first visit and includes history, examination, diagnosis, and development of a treatment plan for the patient.

Privately Owned Campground: House Bill 229 grants limited liability protections for privately owned campgrounds in Ohio. House Bill 229 also exempts sites that host historical reenactor camps from the recreational and camping operation license requirements. 

Public Records Law: Senate Bill 4 exempts personal information of emergency service telecommunicators, protective service works, certain Ohio National Guard members, and some mental health care providers from the State Public Records Law. Currently, individuals employed as peace officers, parole officers, probation officers, correctional employees, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, prosecuting attorneys, and judges, among others, enjoy these protections.

Senate Bill 4 was passed by the House and now heads to the governor to be signed into law. House Bills 136, and 229 now head to the Senate for further consideration.

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.