COLUMBUS, Ohio — In Columbus, lawmakers have reintroduced House Bill 486, known as “Aisha’s Law,” with the aim of bolstering protections for domestic violence victims. Presented on April 10, 2024, the bill suggests adjustments to various sections of the Revised Code to address both civil and criminal facets of domestic violence.
Among its key provisions are changes to laws related to domestic violence, including a requirement for law enforcement to evaluate the risk of lethality for domestic violence victims. This screening aims to assess the potential danger posed by their partners.
Juanita Brent, a representative, highlighted that “Aisha’s Law” had previously cleared the House on two occasions but stalled in the Senate. The legislation takes its name from Aisha Fraser, a former Shaker Heights teacher tragically murdered by her ex-husband. Brent told Fox 8 in Cleveland, “What is propelling me is, you know, the person. At one time, she went to my church, she lived in the community. I knew the person that took her life. She’s not just somebody.”
The reintroduction of “Aisha’s Law” reflects ongoing efforts to honor Fraser’s memory and enhance protections for victims of domestic violence in Ohio.