Senate Passes Schaffer, Hoagland Bill Protecting Future County Fairs

COLUMBUS—State Senators Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) and Frank Hoagland (R-Mingo Junction) announced today that the Senate passed Senate Bill 375, which would rescind the Ohio Department of Health order issued on July 30, 2020 limiting the operations of Ohio's county fairs. “County fairs hold tremendous cultural and financial importance throughout the state. Not only do they develop our next generation to become more knowledgeable about our state’s agriculture,” said Schaffer. “They also present opportunities for Ohioans to safely come together for a local showcase that celebrates what makes each county unique and exemplary.” In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ohio Director of Health signed orders on July 30th “limiting County Fairs to Junior Fair Activities and Animal Exhibitions”. This order limited Ohio’s county fairs to operate only as junior fairs, and prohibited rides, games, and other grandstand events. "Our fair boards and communities have shown their commitment to conducting fairs in a safe and responsible manner, and though state’s annual county fairs have concluded for the season, it is necessary to ensure they can fully operate in future years," Schaffer said. This legislation is necessary for the preservation of our county fairs, that provide so much for our communities," said Hoagland. "It is essential that we reopen Ohio and allow local officials to make their own decisions based on the needs of their counties." For more information about Senate Bill 375, click here. To watch Senator Schaffer's floor speech, click here.