LAKEWOOD, OH – The Ohio Lakefront Group (OLG) is voicing strong support for Senate Bill 433, legislation recently introduced by Senator Theresa Gavarone (R- Bowling Green) aimed at bringing Ohio’s Coastal Management law into alignment with the Ohio Supreme Court’s Merrill decision and resolving more than 30 years of regulatory uncertainty.
S.B. 433, which proponents have termed the MERRILL Act, reflects the legal principles clarified by the Court and seeks to provide consistency, predictability, and transparency in how those principles are applied via regulatory agencies.
The legislation is a much-needed step to ensure that statutory law reflects the Ohio Supreme Court’s decision and provides clear guidance to property owners, governmental entities, and construction industry professionals seeking reasonable and cost-effective methods to protect their property.
“Senator Gavarone has demonstrated exactly the leadership that Ohio needs. Her bill is thoughtful, responsive, and grounded in the law. It will bring relief to property owners by upholding their deeds and providing clear guidance to update Coastal Management Administrative Code provisions – some of which have not undergone any review for more than 25 years,” said Yankel.
“With this bill, we conform Ohio law to the Merrill decision and ask that the state adopt updated regulations, which ultimately reduces uncertainty, respects property rights, and protects Lake Erie. This is about clarity, fairness, upholding our deeds, and allowing us to protect our lakefronts. We appreciate Senator Gavarone’s willingness to lead on this issue.”
Senator Gavarone added, “As the State Senator who represents the longest stretch of Lake Erie shoreline, I have heard countless examples of the regulatory nightmare lakefront owners encounter,” said Senator Gavarone. “Senate Bill 433 modernizes Ohio law to create a simplified regulatory environment for property owners to navigate, while preserving the health of one of Ohio’s most precious natural resources, Lake Erie.”
For more information on the Ohio Lakefront Group or to review the overview of the intent of the legislation, visit www.ohiolakefrontgroup.com.
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