SB 160 prohibits health insurance plans from making certain changes to drug coverage during a plan year, such as increasing patient costs, moving drugs to more restrictive tiers, or removing drugs from formularies (except for specific safety or manufacturer discontinuation reasons). It directly affects health insurance issuers and plan members by limiting how insurers can adjust coverage for prescription drugs. Key provisions include allowing generic substitution when available, preventing prior authorization for covered drugs, and exempting plans from restrictions if a drug’s cost rises more than 5% plus inflation. The bill aims to stabilize drug access for patients while permitting standard practices like formulary additions and generic substitutions.
To amend sections 1751.91, 3923.89, 4729.01, 5164.14, and 5167.051 and to enact section 4729.392 of the Revised Code to authorize pharmacists to screen, test, and provide treatment for certain respiratory health conditions.
SB 149 would allow Ohio to join the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact, enabling Ohio-licensed respiratory therapists to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. The bill creates a "Compact Privilege," letting therapists provide care across state lines while still adhering to each state's specific rules and scope of practice. It preserves each state's authority to regulate licensing and protect public safety, requiring therapists to maintain an active Ohio license and comply with the laws of the state where care is delivered. This affects respiratory therapists seeking to work in multiple states, particularly for telehealth or temporary assignments, without changing Ohio's existing licensing requirements.
To amend sections 4773.01, 4773.02, 4773.03, and 4773.06 of the Revised Code to revise the law governing general X-ray machine operators and other radiation technicians.
To enact sections 3727.81, 3727.811, and 5119.192 of the Revised Code to require hospitals to provide overdose reversal drugs under certain circumstances.
SB 18 designates February 14 as "Cardiovascular Health Awareness Day" in Ohio law. This ceremonial bill establishes a specific date for public recognition of cardiovascular health issues without creating new programs, funding, or requirements. It directly affects Ohio residents by adding this awareness day to state law, encouraging community engagement around heart health. The bill is purely symbolic, with no policy changes beyond the official designation.
To amend sections 4723.01, 4723.43, 4723.432, 4729.01, 4731.27, 4731.35, and 4761.17; to enact new section 4723.433 and section 4731.513; and to repeal sections 4723.433, 4723.434, and 4723.435 of the Revised Code to revise the law governing the practice of certified registered nurse anesthetists.
SB 354 creates the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact, allowing podiatric physicians (foot and ankle specialists) to more easily obtain licenses in multiple states. The bill establishes an "expedited license" pathway for physicians already licensed in one participating state, while requiring them to hold a license in the state where the patient is located during treatment. It does not change existing state licensing laws but adds a new process for cross-state practice, with participating states retaining full authority to discipline physicians. This directly affects podiatric physicians seeking to practice across state lines, improving their ability to serve patients in different jurisdictions without duplicating licensing steps.
SB 321 creates new rules in Ohio law allowing certain special police officers to carry firearms while on duty. It directly affects special police officers employed by entities like universities, hospitals, or private security firms. The bill establishes specific requirements for these officers to carry firearms, including training and certification standards. These provisions are codified in new sections of the Revised Code (5119.081 and 5123.131), replacing previous, less specific guidelines. The law aims to clarify and standardize firearm carrying authority for this specific group of law enforcement personnel.
SB 320 would allow Ohio to join the Athletic Trainer Compact, a multi-state agreement. This bill directly affects athletic trainers seeking licensure in multiple participating states. By enacting specific sections of the Revised Code, it would enable reciprocal licensure, meaning Ohio-licensed athletic trainers could more easily work in other states that are part of the compact without obtaining separate licenses. The key mechanism simplifies the process for athletic trainers to practice across state lines within the compact.