Nearly a year to the day after Ohio HB 161 was introduced, it landed on the desk of Ohio Governor DeWine, who promptly signed the measures into law.
The measure updated the Ohio Revised Code to eliminate the spousal exceptions for the offenses of rape, sexual battery, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, gross sexual imposition, sexual imposition, and importuning. It also permits a person to testify against their spouse in a prosecution for any of those offenses.
Proponents of Ohio House Bill 161 expressed support for the bill through several key arguments:
Equal Treatment Under Law: Advocates emphasized that the spousal exception for sexual offenses is an outdated concept that contradicts modern principles of equality and justice. They argued that marriage should not be considered a shield against criminal accountability.
Strengthening Protections for Survivors: Supporters highlighted that eliminating the spousal exemptions helps protect survivors of sexual offenses by recognizing that consent is crucial and must be respected in all circumstances, including within a marriage.
Legal Consistency: Proponents pointed out that the change would align Ohio’s laws with those of other states that have already eliminated such exceptions, fostering a more consistent legal landscape across the country.
Support from Law Enforcement and Advocacy Groups: Endorsements from various law enforcement bodies and advocacy groups see this change as necessary for ensuring that all individuals have equal protection under the law and that perpetrators are held accountable, regardless of their marital status.
Our local Ohio Senate Representative, Dr. Terry Johnson, Co-Sponsored the bill.
The measure was unanimously passed in the Senate. The bill had only one detractor in the House (Republican Bill Dean of Xenia), and the rest of the members voted for it.
