Ohio Governor Signs Bill to Protect First Responders and Ensure the Safety of Ohio Communities

COLUMBUS- State Representative Meredith Craig (R-Smithville) is pleased to announce that Ohio Governor Mike DeWine this week signed House Bill 20, legislation to ensure first responders can carry out their responsibilities effectively during emergency situations.

The legislation, co-sponsored by Craig, creates the offense of harassing an emergency service responder, commonly known as a first responder. An individual commits the offense if, after receiving a warning, they remain within 15 feet of a first responder performing official duties and either interfere with the responder's work or threaten them with physical harm.

House Bill 20 also strengthens penalties for obstructing official business, increasing the offense from a second-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree misdemeanor. If the violation creates a risk of physical harm to a first responder, the offense is elevated from a second-degree misdemeanor to a fourth-degree felony.

The bill will also extend current law to include probation officers under the definition of emergency service responder.

"As the wife of a Wayne County Sheriff's Deputy, this legislation hits close to home," said Craig. "Ensuring that our first responders feel safe while performing their duties is essential. When we protect those who protect us, everyone in our community benefits."

House Bill 20 will become law in early October.