Underground mines, some of which have been abandoned for years, can be found in many parts of the state, particularly eastern Ohio. When buildings are constructed above a mine, major damage to walls and foundations can occur if the mine collapses.

The Ohio Legislature enacted Ohio Revised Code sections 3929.50 et seq. in January 1985 to establish the Ohio Mine Subsidence Insurance Underwriting Association (OMSIUA), the Mine Subsidence Insurance Governing Board, and the Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund.