The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code to revise community control sanctions for felonies and misdemeanors, focusing on the duration and conditions of these sanctions. Key changes include the introduction of a "qualified individual" status that protects individuals from arrest for minor drug possession if they seek medical assistance during a drug overdose, provided they obtain a treatment referral within thirty days. The bill also establishes a tiered penalty system for drug possession offenses, with specific classifications based on the quantity of controlled substances involved. Additionally, it clarifies that community control sanctions for first or second-degree felonies shall not exceed five years, while those for third, fourth, or fifth-degree felonies shall not exceed three years.

Moreover, the bill removes the previous five-year limit on total time under community control sanctions, allowing for more flexible sentencing. It introduces provisions for handling technical violations, including penalties for repeated violations, and allows for intermittent confinement to accommodate offenders' work and family responsibilities. The bill also outlines criteria for judicial release during state emergencies, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation and victim notification throughout the process. Overall, the proposed amendments aim to enhance the management of community control sanctions, improve compliance among offenders, and balance public safety with rehabilitation opportunities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2925.11, 2929.15, 2929.20, 2929.25, 2951.02, 2951.07