Update on the SmokeFree Ohio rule review

Report from Cresha Auck Foley, American Heart Association. reposted at http://www.tobaccodeathray.blogspot.com

 

ODH held its public hearing on the rules back on June 12^th.  Much to everyone’s surprise, no one from the opposition showed up (or at least they didn’t offer testimony on the rules.)  Jeff Stephens, on behalf of the SFO Steering Committee, gave supportive testimony.

As mentioned, the rules now go before the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review.  This is a legislative committee that has the ability to review all agency rules to make sure they match the intent of the legislation (or ballot language in the in case.)  The SFO rules have been divided into the “no change” rules (those that aren’t changing from the current) and the “change” rules (those that are being amended or fixed.)  The first hearing was originally scheduled for July 8^th, but with the holiday was moved to July 9^th.  Since this is the same day as the Tobacco Free Ohio Alliance meeting, I wanted to make sure everyone had the new date.  You are welcome to attend the hearing.  At this time, we aren’t expecting much of any testimony, but it never hurts to have supporters in the audience. 

The July 9^th hearing will be at 1:30PM in Room 121 at the statehouse.  Here is a link to the agenda.  As of now, we are on the consent agenda, which means things should/could go fast.

 The next hearing, for the no change rules, is still scheduled from July 22^nd.