The Ohio General Assembly has let the dogs out.
On Wednesday, the Ohio Senate passed a bill that would allow dogs on restaurant patios, something that business groups see as a way to let companies expand their creativity.
HB 263, which passed the Ohio House in April, would let restaurant owners decide if they want to allow dogs on their patios.
Holly Gross with the Columbus Chamber of Commerce says this clears up confusion between businesses and local health departments. She adds that giving restaurants discretion can help businesses thrive.
“We do have creative business owners and they want to create a really exciting, innovative experience,” Gross says.
The bill also seeks to make sure restaurants comply with health codes if they allow dogs on their patios.
Now that the Ohio Senate has approved, the bill returns to the House for a final vote before heading to the desk of Gov. John Kasich.
This story has been updated.
