Legislation Overhauling Ohio Domestic Violence Laws Clears House

COLUMBUS, OH - Legislation that would revamp Ohio's domestic violence laws clearing the cleared the Ohio House of Representatives on Tuesday. House Bill 1, a bipartisan bill, passed with a vote of 12 to 0, according to the 132nd Assembly website.

The major change that could result if this legislation passes the Ohio Senate is victims of dating violence will be able to obtain civil protective orders against their attackers. That protection is currently allowed in every state except Ohio and Georgia.

The bill was jointly sponsored by Democratic State Representative Emilia Sykes, Akron, and Republic State Representative Nathan Manning, North Ridgeville. The bill has enjoyed broad support in the House, including several Democrats.

“For far too long, Ohio’s antiquated domestic violence laws have left thousands of Ohioans vulnerable to dating violence,” said Sykes in an emailed statement. “My colleagues and I agree: it is past time to pull Ohio out of the dark ages and join the rest of the country in protecting victims of abuse. I am pleased we were able to come together in a bipartisan manner to help bring Ohio’s domestic violence protections into the 21st Century.”

Besides allowed dating violence victims to get civil protective orders, the legislation would also require the Ohio Attorney General's victim's bill of rights pamphlet to get updated with information on victims and how they can obtain the protective orders. There would also be information on how to provide access to shelters for victims of dating violence.

The bill will also expand the definition of dating violence. Currently, dating violence is only recognized between two spouses. HB 1 would expand that scope to include couples in long-term relationships, so that those individuals can receive protection under the law.

“Dating violence is real, and HB 1 is a perfect example of good, bipartisan policy making that considers and includes the voices of victims who’ve been previously marginalized and excluded from the protections of Ohio law. I am proud and honored to be a co-sponsor,” said Rep. Janine Boyd, Democrat, Cleveland Heights, in a statement.

The National Coalition Against Dating Violence reports that women between the ages of 18 and 24 are the most likely victims of domestic violence. Half of youth who experience dating violence also report attempting suicide. The statistics on dating violence are shocking. You can find more information on the issue here.

Rep. Manning did not immediately return a request for comment from Patch.

A copy of the legislation is available for viewing here.

Photo from Pixabay