The bill seeks to establish the "Repeat Offender Act" by amending various sections of the Revised Code and enacting new provisions that introduce a classification for repeat offenders, modify firearm specifications, and increase penalties for specific firearm-related offenses. Key changes include the insertion of new sections 2941.1427, 2941.1428, and 2953.321, which detail the classifications and specifications for repeat offenders. The legislation also broadens the scope of relief from firearms disability, alters the sealing procedures for misdemeanors and lower-degree felonies, and mandates that the superintendent of the bureau of criminal identification and investigation maintain comprehensive records of individuals convicted of felonies and certain misdemeanors.

Additionally, the bill outlines new procedures for conducting criminal records checks, including the review of sealed records, and establishes specific timelines for the completion of these checks. It introduces mandatory prison terms for repeat offenders and those discharging firearms during the commission of a crime, emphasizing that these terms must be served consecutively. The bill also clarifies the handling of sealed and expunged records, ensuring that individuals cannot be questioned about such records during employment applications. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance public safety through stricter regulations on repeat offenders and firearm offenses while streamlining the processes related to criminal records and licensing.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 109.57, 109.572, 109.578, 109.579, 2151.357, 2901.08, 2923.125, 2923.13, 2923.14, 2929.01, 2929.13, 2929.14, 2941.141, 2941.144, 2941.145, 2941.146, 2953.25, 2953.26, 2953.32, 2953.34, 2953.61, 4723.28, 4729.16, 4729.56, 4729.57, 4729.96, 4752.09