Reineke Scenic Rivers Bill Passes Ohio Senate

COLUMBUS—The Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 156, legislation sponsored by State Senator Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin) to protect both property owners and waterways throughout the state.

"The idea for this legislation came directly from a Seneca County constituent dealing with the Sandusky River Watershed Coalition, who went to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources with concerns about the balance of private property rights and maintaining our natural resources," Reineke said. "Senate Bill 156 safeguards the rights of our citizens to own and use their property while preserving our rivers and streams for generations to come."

Senate Bill 156 clarifies the law to ensure protections against private property use restrictions and other landowner concerns. The bill also extends the public comment period from 30 to 60 days for proposed wild, scenic or recreational river designations. 

Senate Bill 156 now goes to the Ohio House of Representatives for consideration.