The bill amends sections 5502.29 and 5502.41 of the Revised Code and enacts section 5502.301, focusing on workers' compensation coverage for members of designated urban search and rescue teams who assist in Ohio at the request of the state's Emergency Management Agency Executive Director. It establishes that these team members will be considered employees of the emergency management agency for workers' compensation purposes if they sustain injuries or contract occupational diseases while performing their duties, provided they have a written agreement with the agency. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of personnel from political subdivisions during emergencies, ensuring they remain employees of their respective subdivisions and retain their tort liability protections while providing aid.

Additionally, the bill enhances the legal framework for mutual aid agreements between political subdivisions and universities or colleges in emergency response situations. It specifies that personnel injured or killed while assisting are entitled to benefits under Chapters 4121 and 4123 of the Revised Code and are considered agents of their political subdivision for tort liability. The bill outlines a reimbursement process for political subdivisions providing aid, allowing for the recovery of losses or expenses incurred, with certain exceptions. It also allows for the assumption of costs and equipment loans among political subdivisions. Notably, the bill repeals the existing sections 5502.29 and 5502.41, streamlining the legal framework for emergency response collaboration.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5502.29, 5502.41
As Reported By Senate Committee: 5502.29, 5502.41
As Passed By Senate: 5502.29, 5502.41