Mansfield Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has approved the Never Alone Act, aligning with the Ohio Senate's earlier decision. The legislation was sponsored by State Representatives Melanie Miller from Ashland and Beth Lear from Galena. House Bill 236 received unanimous support in the Ohio House, passing with an 89-0 vote.

The bill aims to ensure that patients have access to an advocate while in hospitals, nursing homes, or other congregate care settings, particularly during health emergencies. Representative Miller expressed gratitude for the legislative support: “I am grateful for the support of my colleagues in the General Assembly for their support of the Never Alone Act.”

Key provisions of the Never Alone Act include requirements for care settings to inform patients about their right to designate an advocate and prohibitions against denying patient access to advocates. It also prevents any political subdivision or state agency from enforcing rules that would violate these rights.

Additionally, the Department of Health is tasked with creating a Never Alone information sheet that must be provided to each patient upon admission.

The act now awaits approval from the Governor.