Ohio legislation pending to make it easier for communities to access public school open spaces, tracks, etc.

Safe Places to Get Exercise 
Aren’t Always Available in Every 
Community–But They Could Be!

We all need physical activity to be healthy. In fact, research shows that people who have parks or recreational facilities nearby get 38 percent more exercise than those who don’t have easy access. Unfortunately safe places to get physical activity aren’t always available’”but they could be.

Help Open Doors to Physical Activity in Your Community 

Schools can offer a variety of safe, clean facilities, including running tracks, pools, gymnasiums, fitness rooms, and playgrounds. Unfortunately, districts often close their property to the public after school hours due to concerns about liability.

Representative Stebelton has drafted a bill that will address these liability concerns. It won’t force schools to open their doors and playgrounds to the community, but provides liability protection for those that want to make these opportunities available. We need to encourage every legislator to join him as a co-sponsor. The deadline for co-sponsors is October 4th. Your help is needed! 

Please send a quick message urging your legislator to co-sponsor this important legislation to remove this barrier to physical activity and healthier communities. 

Thank you for helping to create  a more active Ohio!

Cresha Auck Foley, OH Government Relations Director
American Heart Association

Melissa Brown, Grassroots Director
American Heart Association