The bill amends section 2307.70 and enacts section 309.081 of the Revised Code to enhance civil actions for individuals who suffer injury or loss due to vandalism or riot activities. It introduces new provisions that allow individuals to pursue civil actions against offenders and any organizations that provided material support for the illegal activities. Specifically, it establishes that individuals can recover full compensatory damages, including emotional distress, and may obtain court orders requiring offenders to repair damages caused by their actions. The bill also creates a presumption that offenders are responsible for repairing damages if their conduct is proven to be a proximate cause of the injury.

Additionally, the bill prohibits government officials from limiting law enforcement's authority to arrest individuals involved in riot or vandalism activities and protects employees from punitive actions for participating in investigations related to such violations. It clarifies that the monetary limitations on compensatory damages do not apply to civil actions under the new provisions, and it allows civil actions to proceed regardless of whether the offender has been criminally charged or convicted. The existing section 2307.70 is repealed, consolidating the legal framework for addressing civil claims related to vandalism and riot activities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2307.70