HB 300 Summary

• Adds protections for search and rescue dogs and horses to Ohio law, including criminal penalties for assault, harassment, and theft comparable to those for police dogs and assistance dogs.

• Creates a statewide volunteer registration system under the emergency management agency and health department to recruit, register, train, and deploy volunteers during declared emergencies.

• Provides liability immunity for registered volunteers serving during emergencies or disaster-related training if their actions do not constitute willful or wanton misconduct.

• Prohibits employers with 40+ employees from terminating or disciplining employees for tardiness or absence when they respond to emergencies as registered volunteers, if proper notice and verification procedures are followed.

• Exempts search and rescue dogs from standard quarantine and dog bite laws when bitten occur during search and rescue operations or while under veterinary care.