The bill amends section 5503.02 of the Revised Code to expand the jurisdiction of the State Highway Patrol (SHP) by allowing it to provide security for the Lieutenant Governor, gubernatorial candidates, and other designated officials. Key insertions include the definition of "eligible candidate" for security detail, which encompasses candidates for governor or lieutenant governor endorsed by a political party, those nominated in a primary election, independent candidates certified for the ballot, and others deemed necessary by the governor. Additionally, the bill authorizes the SHP to undertake major criminal investigations involving state property interests and mandates reporting to legislative leaders following such investigations.

The bill also includes appropriations of $10 million from the General Revenue Fund to support the SHP's security responsibilities, with specific allocations for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. It emphasizes the urgency of the legislation due to the approaching gubernatorial election amid rising political violence, declaring it an emergency measure for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety. The bill repeals the existing section 5503.02 and establishes new provisions for the SHP's expanded role and responsibilities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5503.02