Make seat belt and booster seat violations a primary offense
Impact
If passed, the bill will fundamentally change how seat belt and child restraint violations are enforced in Ohio. Under the current framework, these violations can only be prosecuted if the driver is stopped for another offense. By making these infractions primary offenses, HB536 looks to enhance traffic safety by ensuring more stringent enforcement of seat belt usage and child safety in vehicles. Supporters argue that this will reduce fatalities and injuries among drivers and passengers, especially children.
Summary
House Bill 536 aims to amend existing Ohio traffic laws by categorizing the failure to wear a seat belt and the failure to properly secure a child in a booster seat as primary offenses rather than secondary offenses. This change means that law enforcement can issue citations solely for these violations without any other traffic infraction occurring at the time. The bill introduces significant alterations to multiple sections of the Revised Code, including the establishment of new sections that address these specific violations directly.
Contention
However, the bill has also generated discussions about potential overreach and enforcement concerns. Critics may argue that this could lead to increased stops disproportionately affecting certain demographics. Some stakeholders are wary of this shift as they believe it could divert law enforcement resources away from more severe traffic violations. Ultimately, while proponents argue it emphasizes safety, opponents raise valid concerns regarding enforcement and potential discrimination in policing practices.
Makes the possession of small amounts of schedule I through V controlled substances, except for the possession of marijuana, civil violations punishable by a ($100) fine for a first offense and up to ($300) for subsequent offenses.
Sentencing, to revise sentencing standards in certain circumstances, to repeal habitual felony offender act, to provide for resentencing for defendants whose sentences were based on the habitual felony offender act, Sec. 13A-5-14 added; Secs. 13A-5-9, 13A-5-10 repealed; Secs. 13A-5-6, 13A-5-13, 13A-11-241, 13A-12-231, 13A-12-233, 14-9-44, 32-5A-154, 32-5A-191 am'd.
Provides for tiered and reduced penalties for offenses of larceny, and shoplifting. Further provides that offenses of shoplifting or larceny would not be misdemeanors, repeals habitual offender provisions and other fraudulent offenses.
Concerns stalking and related restraining order protections for adoptive children and their adoptive parents victimized by persons whose parental rights to the adoptive children have been terminated.
Concerns stalking and related restraining order protections for adoptive children and their adoptive parents victimized by persons whose parental rights to the adoptive children have been terminated.