Bill > HB144

This bill expands the existing communication disability database to include a broader range of disabilities, such as intellectual impairments, hearing and visual impairments, autism, traumatic brain injury, and mental health conditions. The database, to be maintained by the Department of Public Safety, will now allow individuals with various disabilities (or their guardians) to voluntarily submit a verification form that includes personal information like name, address, driver's license number, and vehicle license plate numbers. The database will be accessible to law enforcement officers, emergency medical service personnel, and firefighters through the law enforcement automated data system and countywide 9-1-1 systems. The bill aims to help first responders quickly identify and understand an individual's disability during emergency situations. The Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities agency and the Department of Developmental Disabilities will be responsible for making the verification form electronically available and conducting public outreach about the database. Individuals can request to be added to or removed from the database at any time, and the information will remain confidential and not considered a public record. The legislation is named "Keith's Law" and represents an effort to improve communication and support for individuals with disabilities during emergency interactions.

Military Affairs and Security, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb144