Bill > HB23

This bill creates the escaped convict alert program and expands the ability of certain companies to have their own police officers commissioned by the Secretary of State. Specifically, the bill allows prior parent companies of banks to apply for police officer commissions for people who worked as police officers at financial institutions they previously owned. The escaped convict alert program is designed to help law enforcement agencies quickly disseminate information about escaped felons from jails, workhouses, or correctional institutions. The program enables law enforcement to activate an alert for the surrounding area when a felon escapes, with provisions protecting broadcast stations and cable systems from liability for sharing or not sharing alert information. The bill also clarifies that the alert program cannot use the federal emergency alert system unless federally authorized. Additionally, the bill maintains existing requirements that commissioned police officers be citizens of good character, complete training programs, and be certified by the Ohio peace officer training commission within six months of starting their duties.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb23