The bill amends section 4973.17 of the Revised Code and enacts section 5502.54 to create an escaped convict alert program and expand the authority for appointing banking police officers. It allows prior parent companies of banks to apply for the appointment and commissioning of police officers, who can be designated by these companies to operate on bank premises or elsewhere. The definition of a "prior parent company of a bank" is clarified to include companies that previously held a controlling interest in a bank and have since divested that interest. The bill also sets forth requirements for these police officers, including citizenship, good character, and completion of an approved training program, with their positions lasting three years unless revoked for good cause.

Additionally, the bill outlines a framework for the appointment and operation of police officers for amusement parks, requiring joint approval from local police chiefs and a written agreement detailing the scope of activities and mutual aid arrangements. The newly established "escaped convict alert program" allows law enforcement to activate alerts for escaped felons, defining the conditions for activation and protecting media from liability related to these broadcasts. The bill repeals the existing section 4973.17, signifying a comprehensive update to the legal framework concerning law enforcement and public safety in relation to amusement parks and escaped convicts.

Statutes affected:
As Reported By Senate Committee: 4973.17
As Passed By Senate: 4973.17