COLUMBUS, Ohio — A bipartisan bill, HB161, has been introduced by Ohio lawmakers to amend several sections of the Revised Code, including eliminating spousal exceptions for certain sex offenses. The offenses include rape, sexual battery, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, gross sexual imposition, sexual imposition, and importuning.
The bill would also allow a person to testify against their spouse in a prosecution for any of these offenses. Currently, Ohio law allows a spouse to refuse to testify against their partner in a criminal case involving these offenses.
The sponsors of the bill include Rep. Jessica Miranda, a Democrat, and Rep. Brett Hudson Hillyer and Rep. Josh Williams, both Republicans. The bill has been referred to the Criminal Justice Committee for further consideration.
If the bill passes, Ohio would join several other states that have already eliminated spousal exceptions for these types of crimes. The proposed changes would provide greater protection for victims of sexual assault and ensure that perpetrators of these offenses are held accountable, regardless of their relationship to the victim.