Reps. Beth Lear and Monica Robb Blasdel Introduce Ohio Self Defense Act to Strengthen Protections for Law-Abiding Citizens

COLUMBUS – State Representatives Beth Lear (R-Galena) and Monica Robb Blasdel (R-New Waterford) this week introduced House Bill 498, the Ohio Self Defense Act, to ensure Ohioans are fully protected when exercising their right to self-defense. 

“Ohioans should never be placed in legal jeopardy simply for taking defensive action in the face of an imminent threat,” said Rep. Lear. “This bill ensures our citizens have the confidence to stand their ground without fear of unjust prosecution or financial devastation.”

The Ohio Self Defense Act makes several critical reforms to Ohio law, including:

• Pretrial immunity process: Allows citizens facing charges or lawsuits for lawful self-defense to request a pretrial immunity hearing, stopping unjust or politically motivated cases before trial.
• Strengthened civil immunity: Protects Ohioans from civil liability when acting lawfully in self-defense, while requiring courts to award attorney’s fees and costs if immunity applies.
  Codification of the “threatened use of force”: Clarifies that displaying a firearm or issuing a defensive verbal warning is protected under the law, helping deter violence before shots are fired.
• Clear presumptions: Establishes that citizens are presumed to have acted reasonably when defending themselves against intruders in their homes, vehicles, or places of business.
• Clarified burdens of proof: Requires prosecutors to present clear and convincing evidence at an immunity hearing, and to prove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
   

“Self-defense is a foundational right,” Rep. Robb Blasdel said. “bill protects good people who do the right thing, while ensuring accountability remains for criminals.”

The legislation is carefully written to exclude individuals engaged in violent felonies, unlawful activity, or acts against peace officers performing their duties.

The bill awaits a committee assignment.