The bill amends sections 2307.601, 2901.05, and 2901.09 of the Revised Code to clarify the circumstances under which individuals have no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense, defense of another, or defense of their residence or vehicle. Key changes include the insertion of definitions for "residence" and "vehicle," which now have the same meanings as in section 2901.05. The bill specifies 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 possibility of retreat will not be considered by a trier of fact when determining the reasonableness of the use of force in these situations.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing language that previously allowed for the consideration of retreat as a factor in assessing the necessity of force used in self-defense. This change aims to strengthen the legal protections for individuals acting in self-defense by ensuring that they are not penalized for failing to retreat when they are in a place where they have a right to be. Overall, the bill seeks to provide clearer guidelines regarding self-defense laws in Ohio, emphasizing the rights of individuals to protect themselves without the obligation to retreat.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2307.601, 2901.05, 2901.09