Weinstein Introduces "Megan's Way Out" Bill to Enhance Drive-Thru Safety

This week, state Senator Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson) was joined by City of Stow Mayor John Pribonic and the family of Megan Keleman to announce the introduction of new legislation aimed at addressing the safety risks that led to Megan’s tragic death last year. The bill, titled “Megan’s Way Out,” would mandate that drive-thru lanes in new or renovated facilities provide a bypass lane, at least 10 feet wide, to allow vehicles to exit and for emergency responders to access the scene quickly.

“The tragic loss of Megan Keleman highlighted a glaring safety risk in many drive-thru lanes across the state,” said Weinstein. “This bill ensures that no Ohioan will ever again be trapped in a drive-thru without a way out or without access to help when it’s needed most.”

Megan Keleman, a Stow resident, was tragically killed in a shooting while trapped in a drive-thru lane. Unable to escape and with first responders blocked from reaching her, her death exposed critical gaps in drive-thru lane safety.

Nick Keleman, Megan’s father, also spoke at the announcement, emphasizing the importance of businesses providing safe, accessible spaces for their customers.

“All businesses must provide a safe environment, inside and out,” said Nick Keleman. “A one-lane drive-thru that traps people without a way to escape is simply not safe.”

The bill includes exceptions for businesses where space constraints or property layouts make it impractical to add a bypass lane. These exemptions are designed to ensure that the bill is effective without creating challenges for businesses that cannot feasibly implement the necessary changes.

“Our goal is to enhance public safety while respecting the limitations some businesses may face,” added Weinstein. “We’ve been deliberate in ensuring this bill is flexible, balanced, and fair, particularly for small or space-constrained establishments. This legislation strikes a balance, offering a life-saving measure that’s practical and considerate of real-world limitations.”

The bill is currently out for co-sponsorship and will be filed next week.