The bill amends sections 341.02 and 5901.03 of the Revised Code and enacts section 341.43, which mandates that incarcerating institutions verify the veteran status of individuals in their custody. Under the new provisions, the sheriff is required to include a prisoner's veteran status in the jail register if verified through an investigation conducted under the newly established section 341.43. This section outlines the responsibilities of incarcerating institutions, including registering with the Veterans Reentry Search Service (VRSS), collecting personal information during the booking process, and confirming veteran status within three days of booking. Additionally, institutions must train staff to utilize VRSS and may seek assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs for training and software installation.

Furthermore, the bill expands the duties of the veterans service commission to include establishing outreach programs for veterans, which may involve providing financial assistance to veterans treatment courts and incarcerating institutions for necessary resources related to VRSS. The commission is also tasked with enhancing services for veterans within the county and ensuring that veterans who are incarcerated are assessed for potential outreach program placement. The existing sections 341.02 and 5901.03 are repealed as part of this legislative update.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 341.02, 5901.03
As Reported By Senate Committee: 341.02, 5901.03
As Passed By Senate: 341.02, 5901.03
As Reported By House Committee: 341.02, 5901.03
As Passed By House: 341.02, 5901.03
As Enrolled: 341.02, 5901.03