The bill amends sections 2903.22 and 2921.31 of the Revised Code to enhance penalties for obstructing official business and menacing when the victim is an emergency service responder or a probation officer. Specifically, it establishes that if a person obstructs an emergency service responder engaged in their lawful duties after being warned, the offense is elevated to a misdemeanor of the first degree. Additionally, if the obstruction creates a risk of physical harm to any person, it is classified as a felony of the fifth degree. The bill also clarifies the definitions of "emergency service responder" and introduces "probation officer" into the legal framework.

Furthermore, the bill removes the term "family" from the definition of "emergency service responder" and specifies that the term now includes probation officers. It also provides definitions for "warning" and outlines the conditions under which obstructing official business is considered a misdemeanor or felony. The existing sections 2903.22 and 2921.31 are repealed, indicating a complete overhaul of the legal language surrounding these offenses.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.22
As Reported By House Committee: 2903.22, 2921.31
As Passed By House: 2903.22, 2921.31