A Legislative Update, October 30, 2019
The House was successful in passing several pieces of legislation last week including bills to protect children and strengthen penalties for promoting prostitution.
My colleagues in the Ohio House and I work hard to improve the lives of the Ohioans we represent, and I appreciate the opportunity to update you on these and other issues before us in the legislature.
Accountability for Ohio Daycares: Known as “Chase’s Law,” House Bill 65 will require any childcare providers licensed by the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (ODJFS) to notify parents if ODJFS determines that the provider allowed serious risk to a child’s safety. I co-sponsored House Bill 65 to help provide parents with peace of mind and to hold childcare providers accountable.
Designating Frank Robinson Day: House Bill 117 will designate August 31 as Frank Robinson Day. Robinson spent 10 seasons playing for the Cincinnati Reds and was the first African American to manage, serving as a player-manager for the Cleveland Indians. He played in 14 All Star games, and remains the only big league player to win Most Valuable Player in both the American and National Leagues. He was inducted to the MLB Hall of Fame in 1982. I co-sponsored House Bill 117, which passed unanimously out of the House.
Regulating Low Speed Electric Scooters: House Bill 295 cleans up outdated and conflicting definitions to clarify that Low-Speed Electric Scooters are permitted on the road. This legislation will give scooter riders similar rights and responsibilities as cyclists. House Bill 295 allows scooters to be ridden on roadways and bicycle lanes and paths where bicycles may be ridden. Municipalities, counties, townships, metropolitan park districts, township park districts, and recreation districts may regulate or prohibit the use of scooters within their jurisdictions.
Strengthening Penalties for Promoting Prostitution: Senate Bill 5 strengthens the criminal penalties for individuals who are convicted of promoting prostitution in Ohio. This legislation prohibits any person from knowingly taking part in the creation or operation of any enterprise that facilitates engagement in sexual activity for hire. Senate Bill 5 is one more step that the state has taken over the past several years to combat human trafficking. I co-sponsored Senate Bill 5, which passed out of both the House and the Senate unanimously.
In everything I do, whether it is in Columbus or back in my home district of Stark County, I will continue to make your priorities my priorities. With that goal in mind, I welcome your feedback and opinions at any time. Please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (614) 752-2438, emailing Rep48@OhioHouse.gov, or by writing me at 77 South High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215.