Rep. Richardson Supports Bill to Protect First Responders and Ensure the Safety of Ohio Communities

COLUMBUS— The Ohio House of Representatives this week passed commonsense legislation to ensure first responders can carry out their responsibilities effectively during emergency situations, announced State Representative Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville).

House Bill 20 will increase the penalty of obstructing official business from a second-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree misdemeanor if the victim of the offense is an emergency service responder, commonly known as a first responder, who is responding to an emergency in an official capacity. The bill will also extend current law to include probation officers under the definition of emergency service responder.

“Sometimes first responders have just seconds to make important decisions,” said Richardson. “In some circumstances, interference by others can make the difference between life and death. This bill ensures our first responders can serve and protect residents by doing their duty without delay.”

House Bill 20 now moves to the Ohio Senate for consideration.