Senate Passes Bill Providing Accountability and Oversight of Public Health Orders
February 17, 2021
Theresa Gavarone News
COLUMBUS—State Senator Theresa Gavarone (R-Bowling Green) today announced the passage of Senate Bill 22, legislation she co-sponsored which provides additional legislative oversight for public health orders in response to executive actions taken during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The bill would establish the bi-partisan, bicameral Ohio Health Oversight and Advisory Committee. The Committee would provide legislative oversight regarding actions taken by the Governor and the Ohio Department of Health during a statewide public health emergency.
“My constituents have been loud and clear that they want the legislature—their direct line to government—to play a bigger role in this and future health orders,” Gavarone said. “I co-sponsored Senate Bill 22 because, like my constituents, I believe we need more checks and balances in Ohio government.”
The bill also permits the General Assembly to adopt a resolution to terminate a public health state of emergency after thirty days, and may rescind a related executive order or rule eleven days after the initial emergency declaration is made. If a health order is rescinded, it may not be reissued for thirty days.
Senate Bill 22 will now be sent to the Ohio House for consideration.
The bill would establish the bi-partisan, bicameral Ohio Health Oversight and Advisory Committee. The Committee would provide legislative oversight regarding actions taken by the Governor and the Ohio Department of Health during a statewide public health emergency.
“My constituents have been loud and clear that they want the legislature—their direct line to government—to play a bigger role in this and future health orders,” Gavarone said. “I co-sponsored Senate Bill 22 because, like my constituents, I believe we need more checks and balances in Ohio government.”
The bill also permits the General Assembly to adopt a resolution to terminate a public health state of emergency after thirty days, and may rescind a related executive order or rule eleven days after the initial emergency declaration is made. If a health order is rescinded, it may not be reissued for thirty days.
Senate Bill 22 will now be sent to the Ohio House for consideration.