PRESS RELEASE (PUBLIC SAFETY)

Media Inquiries:
Jaime Gillen
330-651-4388
jaimeg@oups.org
www.OHIO811.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ROGER L. LIPSCOMB APPOINTED BY GOVERNOR MIKE DEWINE TO UNDERGROUND TECHNICAL COMMITTEE

Columbus, Ohio – August 4, 2025 – Governor Mike DeWine announced the appointment of Roger L. Lipscomb, President/Executive Director of OHIO811, to serve as a non-voting advisory member of the Underground Technical Committee (UTC) for a four-year term. The UTC, established under Ohio law, collaborates with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) to investigate and adjudicate reported violations of Ohio’s excavation laws, ensuring the safety of Ohio’s residents and the integrity of its extensive underground utility infrastructure.

Roger Lipscomb, who has served as OHIO811’s President/Executive Director since 2006, brings over three decades of professional experience in public safety and underground utility protection. His leadership has driven numerous initiatives to advance excavation safety and public awareness across Ohio. As a UTC member, Lipscomb will provide critical subject matter expertise and support the panel’s efforts to ensure compliance with Ohio’s “Call Before You Dig” mandate and underground damage prevention laws.

“Ohio’s excavation laws are critical to safeguarding both our communities and the thousands of miles of buried utilities across the state,” states Jaime Gillen, OHIO811 Director of Public Relations and Communications, “Roger Lipscomb’s extensive expertise and steadfast commitment to public safety will strengthen the UTC’s efforts to ensure compliance and enhance excavation safety statewide.”

This appointment follows the enactment of House Bill 315, signed into law by Governor DeWine on January 2, 2025. Sponsored by Representatives Thomas Hall (OH-46) and Bill Seitz (OH-30), and co-sponsored by 32 Representatives and 17 Senators, H.B. 315 strengthens Ohio’s framework for utility protection and public safety.

For more information about Ohio’s excavation laws or the “Call Before You Dig” process, visit OHIO811.org.