Schmidt Announces Legislation Increasing Penalties for Voyeurism
August 31, 2021
Jean Schmidt News
COLUMBUS – State Representatives Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) today introduced House Bill 406, which will revise Ohio’s voyeurism laws and increase penalties.
“I was regretfully inspired to sponsor this legislation after a constituent of mine was in a dressing room, when she saw a camera. The perpetrator was caught, but because of a technicality in the law, he could not be prosecuted for voyeurism,” said Schmidt. “We must work to ensure that everyone’s privacy is safe and secure in places that it’s expected – whether that be a changing room, locker rooms, bathrooms – and this legislation is a step in the right direction. “
This legislation will:
- Update the list of methods for videotaping and photographing to include streaming and broadcasting;
- Eliminate a clause in two sections requiring the act be committed for the purpose of sexual gratification to broaden the scope for persons to be charged, thus creating a more secure expectation of privacy; and
- Increase penalties for repeat offenders.
HB 406 now awaits referral to a committee.