State Representative Swearingen's Legislation Helping Campground Owners and Workers Passes in the Ohio House
State Rep. D.J. Swearingen’s (R-Huron) legislation to support Ohio tourism and protect campground owners from frivolous lawsuits has been approved by the Ohio House.
“Thank you to all my House colleagues today who supported House Bill 355 and everyone’s hard work on this legislation,” said Swearingen. “Eleven million visitors come to Erie and Ottawa counties annually and many constituents make their livelihoods on our tourism sector with 14 campgrounds in the 89th district, which is very important for jobs throughout the district.”
The legislation exempts campground owners and operators from certain liability for damages resulting from risks inherent to camping.
However, Swearingen indicated that it does not exonerate them from all liability, including:
- Damages for recreational activities within their control
- Purposeful or criminal conduct from the campground owner or operator
- Willful disregard for the safety of the campers
- Disclosing certain known risks to the camper
Additionally, the bill requires owners place signage at the entrance of the campgrounds for campers to be aware of the risks of camping.
“Tourism plays a big role in parts of the district,” said Swearingen. “As the local tourism industry generates $2.1 million in annual sales, I am optimistic we can move this legislation forward in the Senate to continue to support our state’s tourism, jobs, and economy.”
Last month, the House Civil Justice Committee passed House Bill 355, which has drawn support from campground owners and business groups, including the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and the Ohio National Federation of Independent Business.