The bill proposes the creation of the Task Force on Missing Women and Girls who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color, as outlined in the newly enacted section 2901.44 of the Revised Code. The task force is tasked with developing policy changes to address the lack of care for missing and murdered women and girls from these communities, enhancing public awareness, and ensuring culturally competent responses from first responders. It will also focus on collecting relevant data, recommending preventive programming, and identifying major traffic hubs that may facilitate abductions. The task force will consist of various appointed members, including representatives from state agencies and community members, and will hold public meetings to gather input.
Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $250,000 for operating expenses related to the task force's activities for the fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The task force is required to submit a report every two years detailing its findings and recommendations to key legislative leaders, ensuring transparency and public access to its work. Members of the task force will serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred while performing their duties.