The bill proposes significant amendments to the Ohio Revised Code, primarily aimed at abolishing the death penalty and modifying juror challenge procedures in cases involving life imprisonment. It repeals existing sections related to capital punishment and introduces new legal language to streamline the trial process for defendants facing severe penalties. The bill reflects a broader national trend towards the abolition of the death penalty and seeks to ensure fairer trial processes by adjusting the rules regarding juror challenges. Additionally, it outlines new responsibilities for private contractors operating correctional facilities, including requirements for housing out-of-state prisoners and compliance with operational standards.

Moreover, the bill enhances the legal representation framework for indigent defendants, clarifying the roles of public defenders and establishing new reporting requirements. It introduces provisions for the representation of children in legal matters and outlines the responsibilities of county public defender commissions. The bill also addresses the appeals process, postconviction relief, and the handling of DNA testing applications, ensuring that individuals maintain their rights while streamlining legal procedures. Overall, the legislation aims to modernize Ohio's criminal justice system, enhance public safety, and improve the rights and representation of defendants and victims alike.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9.07, 120.03, 120.041, 120.06, 120.14, 120.16, 120.18, 120.24, 120.26, 120.28, 120.33, 120.34, 149.43, 149.436, 1901.183, 2152.13, 2152.67, 2301.20, 2307.60, 2317.02, 2701.07, 2743.51, 2901.02, 2909.24, 2929.02, 2929.13, 2929.14, 2929.61, 2930.19, 2937.222, 2941.021, 2941.14, 2941.148, 2941.401, 2941.43, 2941.51, 2945.06, 2945.10, 2945.13, 2945.21, 2945.25, 2945.33, 2945.38, 2949.02, 2949.03, 2953.02, 2953.07, 2953.08, 2953.09, 2953.10, 2953.21, 2953.23, 2953.71, 2953.72, 2953.73, 2953.81, 2967.05, 2967.12, 2967.13, 2967.193, 2967.194, 2971.03, 2971.07, 5120.113, 5120.53, 5120.61, 5139.04, 5919.16, 109.97, 120.35, 2725.19, 2929.021, 2929.022, 2929.023, 2929.024, 2929.025, 2929.03, 2929.04, 2929.05, 2929.06, 2945.20, 2947.08, 2949.21, 2949.22, 2949.221, 2949.222, 2949.24, 2949.25, 2949.26, 2949.27, 2949.28, 2949.29, 2949.31, 2967.08