News from the Statehous in Columbus

Makenna’s Law Cleared by Ohio Senate Committee & Comppassionate Care Act headed to Governor’s desk

PRESS RELEASE: Office of State Rep. Jean Schmidt

COLUMBUS, OH (April 8, 2022) – With a yes vote from State Rep. Jennifer Gross, the Compassionate Care Act (HB 120) is making its way to the desk of Governor Mike DeWine while Makenna’s Law cleared the Ohio Senate Committe this week. Here’s the story: 

Gross Votes Yes on Compassionate Care Act

COLUMBUS – This week, the Ohio House of Representatives concurred on Senate amendments to House Bill 120, also known as the Compassionate Care Act. Legislation that will require long-term care facilities to develop and implement a compassionate caregiver visitation policy.

Recognizing the toll that limited visitation had on Ohio families in long-term care facilities, State Representative Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester) was a co-sponsor of the bill.

“As a Nurse Practitioner, the inability for patients to see their loved ones is unacceptable,” said Gross. “I am in full support of the compassionate care visitation policy because the need for in-person connection and care is vital.”

H.B. 120 now heads to Governor DeWine’s desk to be signed into law.

Makenna’s Law Cleared by Ohio Senate Committee

COLUMBUS – This week, the Ohio Senate General Government Committee reported out House Bill 178, otherwise known as Makenna’s Law. Bill sponsor State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) hopes to limit swimming pool’s water pressure.

 “I’m grateful for the Senate General Government Committee and their understanding of why this bill is important to the safety of Ohio families,” said Schmidt. “I’m hopeful Makenna’s Law receives a full vote on the Senate floor in the coming months.”

Schmidt and her joint sponsor, State Representative Adam Miller (D-Columbus), have been sounding the alarm for limits on pool water pressure after Makenna Day, seven-years-old at the time of the incident, was seriously injured at her local swimming pool while standing over a water feature.

Makenna endured the initial injury, but also underwent surgery and multiple follow up appointments to ensure a full recovery. To prevent such an event from happening to other children, Makenna has shared her story throughout the committee process.

“I am so proud of her,” said Schmidt. “I admire her bravery and advocacy, she is my motivation to get this across the finish line.”

The bill now awaits referral to the Senate floor from the Ohio Senate Rules and Reference Committee.

State Representative Jean Schmidt is serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 65^th house district, which includes northwestern Clermont County.

For more information, contact Rep. Schmidt’s office at (614) 466-8134 or rep65@ohiohouse.gov.