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Ohio Breach of Contract Statute of Limitations Shortened to 6 Years

Client Alert

On March 16, 2021, Governor DeWine signed into law S.B. 13 which shortens Ohio’s statute of limitations for filing lawsuits based on breach of contract.  A statute of limitation is the time period within which a party must file a lawsuit before its claim expires as a matter of law.

Specifically, the new law reduces the statute of limitations for breaches of written contracts from eight years to six (R.C. 2305.06); and reduces the statute of limitations for breaches of oral contracts from six years to four (R.C. 2305.07).  This change in law follows a 2012 amendment which reduced the statute of limitations for breach of written contract claims from fifteen years to eight.  The new law is set to take effect as of June 14, 2021.

Despite the change in Ohio law reducing the statutory time period to file a breach of contract claim, it is important for parties to know and understand the terms of their own contracts which may already contain language limiting the time period within which to file a claim.  If the parties’ contract reduces the time for filing a claim to something less than the statutory time period, the shorter contractual limitation will often control. 

For any questions, please contact Justin M. Alaburda at jmalaburda@bmdllc.com or by calling 330.253.9134.


Ohio House Bill 537: Proposed Regulations for Midwives and Birthing Centers

House Bill 537, introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives, proposes a comprehensive regulatory framework for certified nurse-midwives, certified midwives, licensed midwives, and traditional midwives. The legislation would clarify scope of practice, establish licensure standards, and impose new requirements for freestanding birthing centers and home births. Healthcare providers and facilities should be aware of the proposed changes and their potential operational impact.

Proposed Health Information Privacy Reform Act Expands Protections Beyond HIPAA

The Health Information Privacy Reform Act (HIPRA) seeks to extend privacy protections to health data not covered under HIPAA, including data collected by apps and wearables. HIPRA introduces broader definitions of protected health information, strengthens privacy and security requirements, establishes patient notification rights, and sets national de-identification standards. Companies processing health data should monitor developments to ensure compliance.

Medicare Updates on Skin Substitutes: LCDs Withdrawn, Payment Changes Take Effect

Medicare’s planned Final Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) for skin substitutes were withdrawn in late December 2025, meaning previous coverage rules remain in effect. The 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule introduces a single payment rate of approximately $127.14 for these products. Providers should review implications for diabetic foot and venous leg ulcer treatments.

Understanding the Seven Core Elements of an Effective Healthcare Compliance Program

The Affordable Care Act requires healthcare providers participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP to maintain an effective compliance program. Guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of Inspector General outlines seven core elements that form the foundation of these programs, from written policies and compliance oversight to auditing, training, and corrective action. This alert highlights each element and explains how practices can tailor compliance programs to their size and risk profile while meeting federal expectations.

Preventing a Board Investigation

Healthcare professionals in Ohio are subject to licensing board investigations that can lead to disciplinary action. Staying compliant with regulations, documenting carefully, and operating within your professional scope can help prevent issues. If contacted by a board, working with an attorney is critical to protect your license and rights.