The bill, known as Philip Wigal's Law, seeks to amend the Ohio Revised Code to impose stricter penalties for traffic offenses, particularly those involving stationary vehicles, vehicular homicide, and vehicular assault. It introduces new legal language that establishes mandatory prison terms for offenders based on their prior convictions and the specifics of the offense. The legislation also mandates significant fines and license suspensions for violations leading to vehicular manslaughter, while clarifying that certain penalties apply only when appropriate signage is present in construction zones. The overall goal is to enhance road safety and hold drivers accountable for dangerous behaviors that endanger others.

In addition to increasing penalties, the bill emphasizes driver education by requiring online courses to cover the dangers of distracted driving and the responsibilities of drivers when approaching stationary emergency vehicles. It sets minimum instructional hours for new commercial drivers and allows the Department of Public Safety to charge fees for regulating these courses. The bill categorizes violations of the new driving regulations as minor misdemeanors or higher, introducing a strict liability offense for non-compliance. Furthermore, the Department of Transportation is tasked with creating signage that outlines penalties for vehicular manslaughter and assault related to these new provisions, reinforcing the legislation's focus on education and enforcement to improve road safety.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.06, 2903.08, 4508.02, 4511.213
As Reported By House Committee: 2903.06, 2903.08, 4508.02, 4511.213
As Passed By House: 2903.06, 2903.08, 4508.02, 4511.213