Ohio House representatives announce legislation passage

COLUMBUS — Rep. Susan Manchester (R- Waynesfield) announced on Thursday her legislation revising Ohio’s massage therapy law has been approved by the Ohio House.

The bill closes a loophole in Ohio law that permits non-licensed individuals to perform massage, as long as they do not specifically call it “massage therapy” or advertise their practices as “medical” or “therapeutic massage.”

These non-licensed individuals do not have to meet the educational and safety requirements prescribed by the State Medical Board.

House Bill 374 will also assist in the prevention of human trafficking and prostitution throughout Ohio.

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, illicit massage and spa businesses are the number one venue for sex trafficking in America.

“Non-licensed individuals take advantage of the current loophole and open establishments that serve as fronts for human trafficking and prostitution,” said Manchester, who sponsored the bill. “Last year alone, nearly two dozen illicit massage parlors were closed down.”

In addition, the bill ensures the Board will be able to refer bad actors and their establishments to local law enforcement, allowing them to root out those who are taking advantage of the massage profession for illegal activities.

“This bill will preserve the integrity of the massage therapy profession and protect vulnerable individuals from being taken advantage of in illegal establishments,” added Manchester.

The legislation now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Riedel announces legislation heads to governor

State Rep. Craig S. Riedel (R-Defiance) joined his House colleagues in passing Senate Bill 27, legislation that ensures the respectful and humane disposal of aborted fetal remains.

“The bill upholds the sanctity of life by ensuring the bodies of the unborn are treated with dignity,” said Riedel.

Under the bill, an abortion facility can only dispose of aborted remains through the use of cremation or interment.

The legislation also grants the mother the right to determine the final disposition of the remains.

“There is no current law that contains the process regarding the disposal of aborted human remains,” Riedel added. “This legislation provides a necessary structure to safely and respectfully dispose of the unborn.”

Riedel is a co-sponsor of SB 27. The bill now heads to Gov. Mike DeWine for his signature.