Josh Williams | The Ohio House of Representatives
Josh Williams | The Ohio House of Representatives
The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 168, a legislative measure aimed at addressing constitutional issues within the state's child enticement laws. State Representative Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) announced the passage of the bill, which seeks to ensure that offenses against children can be effectively prosecuted.
"For too long, there has been a loophole in Ohio’s child enticement laws—a loophole that can result in predatory actors remaining on the streets after intending to harm our youth," stated Rep. Williams, who co-sponsored the bill. "H.B. 168 closes this loophole and will allow our prosecutors to punish these actors to the fullest extent of the law."
House Bill 168 introduces several key provisions:
- It clarifies that criminal child enticement must involve a sexual motive or an illegal purpose.
- It removes legal defenses claiming actions were taken during an emergency or for protecting a child's well-being.
- It specifies that if an offender is guilty of both child enticement and another kidnapping-related crime for the same act and victim, these crimes are considered closely related.
- It enhances penalties for those committing criminal child enticement.
Following its approval by the House, House Bill 168 will proceed to the Senate for further consideration.
Alerts Sign-up