Ohio House Passes Bill Safeguarding Ohio Racing Facilities

State Representative Gary Click (R-Vickery) and Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) today announced the Ohio House passed House Bill 639 - also known as the Right to Race Bill - works to create a clear legal framework for nuisance claims involving racing facilities and racetracks across the state.

The bill would establish a complete legal defense for racing facilities against certain nuisance claims regarding activities such as noise, traffic, dust, or lighting. This would apply to a property owner who acquired or developed property after the racing facility was constructed.

"House Bill 639, The Right to Race, is one more piece of common-sense legislation that protects Ohio's business community from frivolous lawsuits and continues to respect the right of our constituents to enjoy their mother sports. The 88th district is home to Hoth the Fremont Speedway and to the Attica Raceway. These venues not only create many opportunities for local citizens but also serve to invite tourism into Seneca and Sandusky Counties," said Click.

"House Bill 639 is about fairness, common sense, and protecting Ohio traditions," said Deeter. "Across our state, racetracks have operated for generations, creating jobs, supporting local economies, and providing family-friendly entertainment. Too often, new development occurs around these long-established facilities, only for those same facilities to face nuisance lawsuits over activities that have existed for years. This legislation provides certainty for racetracks while preserving all existing environmental, health, and safety protections. Ohio's motorsports industry contributes billions to our economy, supports thousands of jobs, and serves as an important part of our state's heritage. House Bill 639 helps ensure these facilities can continue operating and investing in their communities for years to come."

The legislation is intended to provide certainty and stability for existing racing facilities while preserving compliance with all state and federal environmental, health, and safety laws.

If enacted, the measure would also prohibit counties or townships from adopting regulations that conflict with the provisions of the bill.

House Bill 639 now heads to the Ohio Senate for consideration.