The proposed bill, known as the Hate Crime Act, aims to amend section 2927.12 and introduce new sections 2749.01 through 2749.04 and 2927.121 to the Revised Code. The bill defines "intimidation by threat of violence" and establishes that no person shall terrorize another based on specific characteristics such as race, religion, political affiliation, or disability. It also clarifies that speech alone does not constitute a violation unless it meets certain criteria, including the threat of violence against a specific individual or group. Additionally, the bill prohibits requiring individuals to waive protections against such intimidation as a condition of contracts for goods or services.

Furthermore, the bill creates a civil remedy for individuals who are victims of hate crimes, allowing them to bring actions in court and seek damages, including actual and punitive damages, as well as civil fines. The bill also empowers the attorney general or county prosecutors to investigate complaints of violations and take legal action on behalf of victims. Notably, the existing section 2927.12 is repealed, and the new section 2927.121 establishes penalties for committing offenses of violence against individuals based on their perceived characteristics, categorizing such offenses as hate crimes.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2927.12