Ohio House Passes 'V.J.'s Law' to Strengthen Child Abuse Reporting Requirements

COLUMBUS - State Representatives Matt Kishman and Josh Williams today announced the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 346, also known as "V.J.'s Law," legislation aimed at improving communication between child welfare agencies and law enforcement to better protect Ohio's children from abuse and neglect.

The bill strengthens Ohio's mandatory reporting laws by requiring healthcare professionals who are designated as mandatory reporters to immediately report known or suspected child abuse or neglect to both the local public children services agency and law enforcement, rather than to one or the other.

"Protecting vulnerable children must always be our highest priority," said Rep. Kishman. "V.J.'s Law closes gaps in Ohio's reporting system to help ensure that allegations of abuse are communicated quickly to all appropriate authorities so action can be taken without delay."

In addition to establishing dual reporting requirements, the legislation requires public children services agencies to notify law enforcement of qualifying reports promptly, but no later than 48 hours after receiving them. The bill also provides law enforcement agencies investigating allegations of abuse or neglect with access to relevant medical reports and records related to the alleged incident.

"Every report of suspected abuse has the potential to save a child's life," said Rep. Williams. "By improving coordination between agencies and increasing accountability, this legislation strengthens Ohio's commitment to keeping children safe."

House Bill 346 further establishes criminal and civil penalties for mandatory reporters who knowingly fail to comply with reporting requirements. The legislation also extends the dual-reporting requirement to individuals who voluntarily choose to report suspected abuse or neglect.

House Bill 346 now moves to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.