The bill amends sections 111.41, 111.42, and 111.99 of the Revised Code to expand the Address Confidentiality Program in Ohio. Key changes include the inclusion of "household members of victims" in the definition of "application assistant," and the addition of various crimes, such as those causing serious physical harm or death, or involving threats with a deadly weapon, as qualifying factors for program participation. The bill also clarifies that the program is available to individuals who fear for their safety due to being victims of domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, and other serious offenses.

Additionally, the bill outlines the application process for individuals seeking to participate in the program, requiring a notarized statement of fear for safety and a recommendation from an application assistant. It establishes that the certification for program participants is valid for four years and can be renewed, while also specifying that tiered sex offenders are ineligible for the program. The bill emphasizes the confidentiality of participants' addresses and imposes penalties for unauthorized disclosure of confidential information related to the program. Existing sections of the law that are being amended are also repealed.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 111.41, 111.42, 111.99
As Reported By House Committee: 111.41, 111.42, 111.99