Powell Announces ‘Good Samaritan Expansion Bill’ Signed into Law

Powell Announces ‘Good Samaritan Expansion Bill’ Signed into Law

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Jena Powell (R-Arcanum) today announced that legislation
protecting healthcare providers, first responders, schools, small businesses and others
from frivolous lawsuits stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic was signed into law.
“This is great news for Ohioans,” said Powell. “Our small businesses and workers have
suffered enough, and this legislation gives Ohioans the comfort of knowing they will not be
sued for simply doing their jobs.”
House Bill 606, also known as the Good Samaritan Expansion Bill, grants immunity to
healthcare providers, schools, local governments, businesses and others from lawsuits
stemming from the pandemic, unless those individuals or entities are reckless or engage in
intentional misconduct. The legislation received extensive support from a wide range of
trade associations, including the state’s largest associations representing large and small
businesses, agriculture, public schools, local governments, hospitals and healthcare
providers.
The bill is intended to provide peace of mind that Ohio’s healthcare workers, hospitals,
schools, businesses and others are protected from unnecessary and costly lawsuits.
“My job is not done until every Ohioan can live in freedom,” added Powell. “It’s crucial we
continue working on good policy to protect families, businesses, churches, non-profits, etc.
and ensure that the balance of power is retained here in Ohio.”
The bill applies to acts, omissions, conduct, decisions, or compliance from the date of the
Governor’s Executive Order, 2020-01D, issued on March 9, 2020, declaring a state of
emergency due to COVID-19, through September 30, 2021.

Powell voted in favor of the legislation earlier this month.

 

State Representative Jena Powell is currently serving her first term as a state representative.
She represents the 80 th Ohio House District, which encompasses Miami County and a portion of Darke County.

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