COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed Senate Bill 109, a new law designed to enhance the State Medical Board of Ohio’s ability to address allegations of sexual misconduct and ensure greater accountability for medical professionals.
The legislation includes measures to allow the Medical Board to act more swiftly during investigations of sexual misconduct. Provisions include increased reporting requirements and the authority to temporarily suspend medical licenses while investigations are ongoing. The bill also emphasizes improved transparency for victims and patients.
Legislation Stems from 2019 Working Group Recommendations
Senate Bill 109 incorporates recommendations from a 2019 working group led by Governor DeWine. The group was tasked with evaluating the Medical Board’s handling of a case involving Richard Strauss, a former Ohio State University physician accused of sexual abuse between 1996 and 2002.
As a result of that review, the Medical Board has implemented several changes over the past five years to improve its handling of misconduct complaints. SB 109 represents another effort to strengthen those reforms.
“This bill is an important step in ensuring that the Medical Board has the tools it needs to address misconduct and protect Ohioans,” Governor DeWine stated.
Recent Local Case Highlights Need for Oversight
The signing of SB 109 coincides with the State Medical Board’s recent decision to permanently revoke the license of Rufus Lowman Jr., a former physician assistant in Chillicothe. Lowman’s license was revoked following allegations of unethical prescription practices and violations of medical regulations.
According to the Medical Board, Lowman improperly prescribed Schedule II controlled substances, such as opioids, to 11 patients without appropriate supervision between 2022 and 2024. These actions led to the suspension of his license in May 2024, and subsequent investigations uncovered additional concerns, including allegations of operating an “illegal pill mill” and ethical violations.
The case has drawn attention due to additional allegations of sexual misconduct. Local authorities have faced criticism for not pursuing these allegations further, despite having a reported audio confession, prompting collaboration with law enforcement in Florida, where some claims originated.
Looking Ahead
Senate Bill 109 is part of a broader effort to strengthen public trust in Ohio’s healthcare system. By providing the State Medical Board with greater authority and tools for addressing misconduct, state officials aim to ensure that patients are better protected and that allegations are handled more efficiently and transparently.