The bill amends the Revised Code to enhance the regulatory framework for surety bail bond agents in Ohio. It allows for the surrender of a defendant by a surety bail bond agent to any sheriff, requiring the delivery of a certified copy of the bond and a signed surety bail bond application. Additionally, the bill mandates that the surety bail bond agent must file a motion with the court for release from the bond within forty-eight hours of the defendant's surrender. A significant change is the introduction of new licensing requirements, stipulating that surety bail bond agents must hold a valid property and casualty insurance agent license, which will take effect two years after the bill's passage.

Moreover, the bill establishes a reinstatement procedure for suspended licenses, requiring payment of applicable fees, and specifies that licenses suspended for nonrenewal will be automatically canceled unless under investigation. It mandates that each licensee obtain a wallet identification card with their photograph while conducting bail bond business. The bill also ensures that the superintendent of insurance will not issue or renew licenses for business entities unless they are qualified and in good standing. Any fees collected will be deposited into the state treasury for the department of insurance operating fund, and the bill repeals existing sections of the Revised Code, presenting Section 3905.85 as a composite of amendments for clarity and simultaneous operation.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2713.21, 2937.22, 2937.24, 3905.85