Reps. Robb Blasdel and Johnson Announce House Passage of Excavation Safety Legislation

COLUMBUS—State Representatives Monica Robb Blasdel (R-New Waterford) and Mark Johnson (R-Chillicothe) today announced the Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 227, legislation that enhances excavation safety standards and restores Ohio’s eligibility for federal pipeline safety grant funding.

House Bill 227 updates several provisions within the Ohio Revised Code governing regulated excavation activities to improve public safety, streamline coordination between excavators and utility operators, and ensure Ohio continues to meet federal standards established by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

“This legislation is about safety, flexibility, and modernization,” said Rep. Robb Blasdel. “By updating Ohio’s excavation laws, we’re giving operators the time and clarity they need to work safely and helping Ohio regain access to federal funding that promotes damage prevention.”

The bill gives utility operators two full working days, excluding the day of the call, to respond to excavation notices and mark underground utilities. It also extends the timeframe to begin excavation from 10 working days to 16 calendar days, offering greater flexibility for project planning. Finally, the bill modernizes the definition of “excavation” by replacing outdated blanket exemptions with specific shallow-depth activities under twelve inches and removes obsolete references to “Limited Basis Participants,” a term no longer used in the industry.

“By aligning Ohio law with federal standards, we’re ensuring safer worksites and unlocking new opportunities for federal support,” said Rep. Johnson.

House Bill 227 now moves to the Ohio Senate for consideration.