The bill, known as Andy's Law, seeks to enhance penalties for assaults and homicides involving specific victims within state or local correctional institutions. It introduces mandatory prison terms for offenders who commit these crimes against designated victims, including law enforcement officers, correctional facility employees, and visitors. The bill also expands the definition of victims to include visitors and volunteers at correctional facilities and modifies existing laws to impose stricter penalties for felonious assaults against employees of correctional institutions, particularly when the assault occurs on facility grounds. Additionally, it establishes a presumption for prison terms in certain circumstances and updates terminology related to mental health services.

Furthermore, the bill addresses various offenses, including illegal conveyance of items into detention facilities, harassment with bodily substances, and firearm-related felonies, imposing mandatory prison terms for specific crimes. It allows for consecutive sentences for offenders convicted of multiple offenses and clarifies the responsibilities of the court in determining sentencing for those with serious mental illnesses or under the age of eighteen. The legislation also includes provisions for the management of state correctional institutions and updates eligibility criteria for surviving spouses of public safety officers regarding health benefits. Overall, Andy's Law aims to enhance public safety and accountability within correctional environments.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 121.03, 2903.01, 2903.11, 2903.13, 2921.36, 2921.38, 2929.03, 2929.14, 5120.01
As Reported By House Committee: 121.03, 2903.01, 2903.11, 2903.13, 2921.36, 2921.38, 2929.03, 2929.14, 5120.01
As Passed By House: 121.03, 2903.01, 2903.11, 2903.13, 2921.36, 2921.38, 2929.03, 2929.14, 5120.01