The bill amends sections 2903.13 and 2917.41 of the Revised Code and enacts section 306.20 to enhance penalties for assaults against operators of Ohio transit system buses or rail cars, as well as for fare evasion. It introduces a zero-tolerance policy for threatening or aggressive behavior towards transit staff, stating that assaults may result in felony convictions. Specifically, assaults against transit operators are classified as a fifth-degree felony, with increased penalties for repeat offenders. The bill also establishes new definitions related to public transportation personnel and outlines the circumstances under which different degrees of assault apply, thereby strengthening protections for transit employees.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding misconduct in public transportation, elevating certain violations from a fourth-degree misdemeanor to a second-degree misdemeanor and establishing penalties for fare evasion and non-compliance with public transportation police orders. It mandates that fines collected from these violations be allocated to the county treasury and the relevant transit authority. The bill also includes provisions for de-escalation and crisis intervention training for healthcare professionals and security officers in hospitals, aiming to improve interactions with individuals, particularly those with mental impairments. Lastly, it repeals the existing sections 2903.13 and 2917.41, streamlining the legal framework surrounding these issues.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.13, 2917.41