Legal Proceedings Continue in Amish Lawsuit Challenging Ohio Flashing Light Law

Some more legal maneuvering will take place before a final decision is made in a lawsuit filed by the Amish community’s seeking an injunction of an Ohio law which mandates the use of flashing yellow lights atop horse-drawn buggies.

Four men from West Salem, Apple Creek, Dalton and Kenton are the plaintiffs in the case.

Listed as defendants are Ohio Attorney General Daivd Yost, Prosecutors from Hardin, Medina and Wayne Counties and Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Charles A. Jones.

The suit challenges the constitutionality of the law.

The plaintiffs claim it targets the Amish community and has effectively criminalized travel for the Old Order Amish denominations, whose adherents cannot use the electric lights without violating their religious beliefs.

At a hearing on Wednesday in Hardin County Common Pleas Court, both sides presented witnesses and evidence before resting.

Judge Steve Christopher then granted the defendants 14 days to respond to the plaintiff’s motion to amend their complaint and for class certification.

Both parties must file their proposed statement of facts with transcripts with the Clerk of Courts.

Pleadings related to the transcripts are then due 30 days after filing the transcripts.

The Temporary order issued in the case in November of 2024 will remain in full force pending final disposition by the Court.