Bill > HB352

This bill expands the legal definition of domestic violence and restrictions on weapons possession in Ohio. Specifically, the bill broadens the definition of domestic violence to include dating relationships, not just family or household members. Under the new law, a "dating relationship" is defined as a relationship within the past twelve months, drawing from the definition in Ohio's domestic violence protection order statute. The bill also modifies weapons disability laws to include additional restrictions for individuals: those subject to domestic violence protection orders and those convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence are now prohibited from acquiring, carrying, or using firearms. The legislation increases penalties for repeat domestic violence offenders, with escalating consequences for subsequent offenses, including potential felony charges and mandatory prison terms, especially if the victim is pregnant. Additionally, the bill ensures that no fees can be charged for filing or prosecuting domestic violence charges, aiming to remove financial barriers for victims seeking legal protection. These changes are intended to provide broader legal protections for individuals in dating relationships and to more comprehensively restrict access to firearms for those with a history of domestic violence.

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https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb352