Legislation that aims to protect Ohio campground owners from “frivolous” lawsuits was signed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine on Monday (Feb. 28).
State Rep. Shane Wilkin (R-Hillsboro) and D.J. Swearingen (R-Huron) were the sponsors of the legislation with the goal of supporting Ohio tourism by helping the campgrounds in the region.
“This legislation will help prevent frivolous lawsuits against Ohio‘s family-owned small businesses while equaling the playing field for those businesses with larger state-owned facilities,” said Wilkin.
The bill doesn’t prevent owners and operators from being held accountable for injuries that result from circumstances within their control. The bill intends to make fair laws and regulations for Ohio small businesses.
Long’s Retreat Family Resort in Western Pike County has expressed its frustrations with the current law to the representative. House Bill 229 was the result of those discussions.
The bill also exempts sites that host historical reenactor camps from the recreational and camping operation license requirements.
The NFIB has backed the legislation along with the Ohio Chamber, the Ohio Campground Owners Association, Long’s Retreat Family Resort, Zoar Community Association, and the Ohio History Connection.
This story originally appeared on The Highland County Press.