Vacationland Times

State Representatives Gary Click and Brian Lorenz have introduced "Keith’s Law," a legislative proposal aimed at improving the capacity of first responders to assist individuals with special needs during emergencies. The law proposes enhancements to an existing statewide database, which would store health information voluntarily provided by individuals with special needs or their guardians.

The proposed database aims to equip first responders with critical health details when dispatched for emergency assistance, potentially improving the life-saving measures they can offer. Representative Click emphasized the importance of providing tools for first responders, stating, “Providing the necessary tools for our first responders to help Ohioans with special needs during a crisis is vital.” He added that the database would be accessible statewide, overcoming limitations posed by local community boundaries.

Representative Lorenz also highlighted the significance of preparing first responders for emergencies involving any Ohioan. “It’s essential to our communities that we prepare our first responders to help any Ohioan in an emergency,” he said. Lorenz expressed hope that his colleagues would support the legislation, believing it will benefit all state first responders.

The bill is pending assignment of a number and committee placement.