Ohio businesses have enough challenges on their hands without having to deal with pervasive scams and fraud attempts. But Buckeye State lawmakers are working to help protect them, with efforts such as Senate Bill 98, passed last week.

The measure is meant to “address fraudulent business filings, deceptive mailings, reinstatement of canceled business entities, and addresses of statutory agents.” (This being the Ohio Legislature, SB 98 will also “make changes regarding property taxation, fire investigator firearms, acting or assigned judge reimbursements, common pleas clerk of court duties, recreational vehicle park and camp operation licenses, and state ballot numbering.”)

But SB 98, primarily sponsored by Michael Rulli, R-33rd Dist. and U.S. Rep.-elect for Ohio’s 6th Dist., appears to have been aiming to give whatever protection lawmakers could to entrepreneurs.

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose heartily approved.

“Our goal is clear, to make Ohio the best state in the nation to start and grow a business, and that includes looking out for our entrepreneurs,” LaRose said upon its passage. “As fraud and business scams continue to rise nationwide, Senate Bill 98 will take a monumental step toward increasing our ability to crack down on the bad actors trying to rip off Ohio’s job creators. Thank you to the Ohio General Assembly for passing this important legislation and sending a message that fraud is not tolerated in the Buckeye State.”

Those thanks may be doubled by the business owners who are eager for the help. Lawmakers are to be commended for making it happen.