Rep. Brennan Supports Passage of "Aspen Runnels' Law" to Strengthen School Zone Safety

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Parma) today announced his strong support for House Bill (HB) 203, known as “Aspen Runnels’ Law,” which he proudly co-sponsored and voted to pass in the Ohio House. The legislation enhances penalties for dangerous driving in active school zones and establishes new safeguards to better protect students and families.

HB 203 was introduced in response to the tragic death of Aspen Runnels, a student who was struck and killed while walking near her school. The bill aims to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies by strengthening Ohio’s traffic safety laws in areas where children are most vulnerable

“Every parent should feel confident their child can get to and from school safely,” said Rep. Brennan. “This legislation sends a clear message: reckless driving in school zones will not be tolerated. By increasing penalties and improving safety measures, we are taking meaningful steps to protect our children and honor Aspen’s memory.”

Under HB 203, penalties for vehicular manslaughter and vehicular assault are significantly increased when the offense occurs in an active school zone and involves speeding or another traffic violation. In certain cases, offenses that were previously misdemeanors are elevated to felony-level charges, reflecting the seriousness of these actions.

The bill also allows courts to:

• Double fines for specific traffic violations committed in designated school-adjacent areas;
• Require offenders to complete a remedial driving course before regaining driving privileges; and
• Enforce stricter driver’s license suspensions for serious offenses in school zones.

Additionally, HB 203 requires the installation of clear signage in school zones to alert motorists of increased penalties, helping to promote awareness and encourage safer driving behavior.

“As a former public school teacher, I understand firsthand how critical it is to maintain safe environments for students,” added Rep. Brennan. “This bill not only holds dangerous drivers accountable but also works proactively to prevent harm through education and awareness.”

HB 203 represents a bipartisan effort to prioritize student safety and respond to concerns raised by families, educators, and communities across Ohio.

“By passing Aspen Runnels’ Law, we are honoring a life lost far too soon and committing ourselves to safer streets for every child in Ohio,” concluded Rep. Brennen.