The bill amends section 2903.22 of the Revised Code and enacts section 2927.31 to enhance protections for emergency service responders. It prohibits individuals from knowingly harassing or impeding emergency responders while they are performing their lawful duties. The bill specifies that menacing behavior towards emergency responders or their family members will incur heightened penalties, categorizing such offenses as misdemeanors of the first degree or felonies of the fourth degree if the offender has prior convictions related to violence against these individuals.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definitions of "emergency service responder," which now includes probation officers, and introduces a new section that defines harassment in relation to emergency responders. It establishes that harassment occurs when a person engages in conduct that causes substantial emotional distress or interferes with the responder's ability to perform their duties. Violating this provision is classified as a misdemeanor of the first degree. The existing section 2903.22 is repealed, streamlining the legal framework surrounding these offenses.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.22