Bill > HB396

This bill expands the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) by modifying existing law to broaden the types of crimes that qualify individuals for the program's protection. The bill specifically adds "crimes in which the victim is threatened with a deadly weapon" to the list of qualifying offenses, alongside existing categories like domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, rape, and sexual battery. The ACP allows victims to use a confidential address provided by the Secretary of State to help protect their safety by keeping their actual residential, work, or school address private. Applicants must be residents of Ohio and can be adults applying for themselves or parents/guardians applying on behalf of minors or incompetent individuals. The bill maintains existing provisions that sex offenders are not eligible for the program and requires applicants to work with a trained application assistant to complete their submission. The certification is valid for four years and can be renewed, and the bill includes strict penalties for anyone who knowingly discloses a participant's confidential address, with violations considered a first-degree misdemeanor. By expanding the qualifying crimes, the bill aims to provide additional protection for a broader range of crime victims who may be at continued risk of harm.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb396