Reps. McNally, Munira Give Sponsor Testimony Legislation Requiring ODOT Install, Maintain Rest Stop Cameras

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) and Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus) Tuesday provided sponsor testimony in the Ohio House Transportation Committee for House Bill (HB) 63. This legislation requires the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to install and maintain cameras at all rest stops that they operate by June 30, 2031. ODOT operates 93 rest stops and has been installing cameras at new and renovated rest stops.

“HB 63 is a good government, public safety bill that increases traveler confidence in the safeness of our rest areas and can, in turn, assist law enforcement should the need arise. Cameras are meant to be an additional security tool and to help give travelers assurance. It says to them that, should something bad come to pass, evidence and a record will be readily available,” said Rep. McNally. 

“The cost of installing and maintaining security systems is a prudent investment that will yield long-term financial benefits by reducing crime-related expenditures and enhancing public confidence in the safety of our transportation infrastructure,” said Rep. Munira.

HB 63 will need at least one more hearing in front of the Ohio House Transportation Committee for committee members to hear proponent, opponent, and interested party testimony. Then it will be voted on by all the members of the Ohio House of Representatives. 

This bill received favorable passage by the Ohio House Homeland Security Committee last General Assembly as HB 473 but ran out of time to move before the 135th General Assembly ended.