State Rep. Cindy Abrams | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Cindy Abrams | The Ohio House of Representatives
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed House Bill 322 into law, a measure aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse. The legislation was sponsored by State Representative Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and former State Representative Bill Seitz (R-Cincinnati).
The new law introduces the offense of grooming, enabling prosecutors to seek criminal charges against individuals exhibiting a pattern of inappropriate behavior towards minors. "We have a collective responsibility to protect Ohio children, and House Bill 322 will allow us to do so," stated Abrams. She emphasized the importance of speaking up for children's safety and expressed gratitude to constituents who supported the bill.
Additionally, the legislation allows for criminal penalties against mandatory reporters who fail to report child abuse cases. House Bill 322 is set to become effective in 90 days.
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