Senate Passes Schaffer Bills Aimed at Helping Nonprofit Corporations and Small Wineries

COLUMBUS—The Senate today unanimously passed two pieces of legislation, sponsored by State Senator Tim Schaffer (R- Lancaster). The first bill, Senate Bill 175 will create civil immunity from liability for nonprofit corporations for concealed carry related incidents. The second bill, Senate Bill 195 will create revisions in the Ohio Revised Code for small wineries to be exempt from food establishment licensing. Senate Bill 175 will grant immunity from civil liability to nonprofit corporations when injury or death results from handguns carried by concealed-carry weapons licensees onto the nonprofit property or at its events. It would also give clarity in the Ohio Revised Code on this issue and mirrors protections already in place for private employers, local governments and state universities. “The concept for this legislation was brought to my attention by a constituent who wants to close the loophole in current law for his church” said Schaffer. “It will go a long way to protect the innocent organizations that have no ill intent and are trying to do the right thing.” Senate Bill 195 will clarify that commercially prepackaged food does not include wine. It would grant the retail food establishment license exemption for small wineries (A-2 or A-2f liquor permit holders) in cases where commercially prepackaged food does not exceed 5% of total sales. The bill would also require an owner or operator to display a notice informing guests that the establishment is not required to be licensed as a retail food establishment. “These wineries are simply attempting to offer pre-packaged snacks, such as store bought cheese, grapes, pretzels, or crackers, alongside their wine tastings,” said Schaffer. “If we don’t fix this the state will push small businesses out of operation and hurt Ohioans who are trying to create an enjoyable experience for their patrons. "I am proud to have sponsored two important pieces of legislation that will yield positive impacts to nonprofit corporations and Ohio’s small wineries," Schaffer added. Senate Bill 175 and 195 will now be sent to the Ohio House for further consideration.