To enact section 3710.30 of the Revised Code to allow a person to use recycled asphalt roofing shingles for construction purposes so long as the shingles do not contain asbestos.
Summary
HB637 would create a new section of the Ohio Revised Code allowing recycled asphalt roofing shingles to be used in roadway construction and other construction projects, provided the shingles do not contain asbestos, asbestos tailings, or asbestos-containing waste material. The bill is framed as a materials-reuse measure that would expand the permissible use of recycled roofing shingles beyond current practice, while keeping an explicit safety restriction tied to asbestos contamination.
The bill also directs the Director of Environmental Protection to adopt administrative rules under Chapter 119 to implement and enforce the new law, including rules for testing recycled asphalt roofing shingles. In effect, the measure would establish a state-level framework for approving and monitoring the use of this recycled material in construction, while leaving room for existing building and safety laws under Chapters 3781 and 3791 to continue to apply where relevant.
Impact
If enacted, HB637 would add section 3710.30 to the Revised Code and create a specific legal authorization for the use of recycled asphalt roofing shingles in construction projects in Ohio. It would affect contractors, roadway builders, construction material suppliers, and environmental regulators by clarifying when the material may be used and by requiring testing and enforcement rules from the Ohio EPA. The bill would also interact with existing building and safety statutes and rules, preserving any contrary requirements under Chapters 3781 and 3791.
Sentiment
Because the bill was only introduced and no committee testimony or votes are available, there is no recorded public debate to gauge support or opposition. The bill’s text suggests a generally pragmatic and pro-recycling approach, emphasizing reuse of construction materials while addressing health concerns through an asbestos prohibition. Overall, the available record indicates a neutral-to-positive posture, but without evidence of formal legislative sentiment from hearings or floor action.
Contention
The main point of potential contention is environmental and public-health risk, specifically whether recycled roofing shingles can be reliably screened to ensure they are free of asbestos and related hazardous waste. Another possible issue is regulatory burden, since the bill would require the Director of Environmental Protection to develop testing and enforcement rules. Supporters are likely to focus on recycling, waste reduction, and construction cost savings, while any critics would likely raise concerns about contamination, compliance, and the safety of using recycled roofing materials in roadway or other construction applications.
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