The bill amends sections 2307.601, 2901.05, and 2901.09 of the Revised Code to clarify and limit the circumstances under which a person has no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense, defense of another, or defense of their residence or vehicle. Key insertions include defining "residence" and "vehicle" as having the same meanings as in section 2901.05, and specifying that individuals who are lawfully in their residence or vehicle, or are occupants of a vehicle owned by an immediate family member, have no duty to retreat before using force. Additionally, the bill removes language that previously allowed a trier of fact to consider the possibility of retreat when determining the reasonableness of the use of force.

The bill also establishes that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution to demonstrate that the accused did not act in self-defense, defense of another, or defense of their residence when evidence supporting such claims is presented. The presumption of acting in self-defense is maintained under certain conditions, but it is clarified that this presumption can be rebutted. Overall, the amendments aim to strengthen the legal protections for individuals using force in self-defense situations while ensuring that the definitions and conditions are clearly articulated.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2307.601, 2901.05, 2901.09