Ohio House Passes Aspen's Law

State Representatives Thomas Hall (R-Madison Twp.) and Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) announced that the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 203, legislation that aims to protect Ohio students crossing the street in active school zones and prevent accidents.

This legislation comes as a result of the tragic death of Aspen Runnels in May 2024. Runnels was walking from one school building to another when he was struck and killed by a motorist.

House Bill 203 mainly increases penalties for vehicular manslaughter and vehicular assault that involve speeding or the commission of a traffic offense in an active school zone.

"Aspen's Law comes in the wake of a tragedy in the 46th House District," said Rep. Hall. "I am grateful for Aspen's family, friends, and my colleagues, for all the support that has been shown in working to make active school zones safer for students, staff, and parents. I look forward to working on this further in the Ohio Senate."

"House Bill 203, named in honor of Aspen Runnels, ensures that future victims receive justice and that our most vulnerable citizens are adequately protected," said Rep. Williams. "Just as we safeguard workers in highway construction zones, we owe it to our children to provide the same protection in their active school zones."

Additional provisions of House Bill 203 are as follows:

• Doubles the fine for certain traffic offenses that occur in school-adjacent portions of active school zones;
• Establishes additional requirements for driver's license reinstatement that apply to an offender who committed vehicular homicide or assault in an active school zone, including completion of a remedial driving course; and
• Establishes requirements governing the posting of signage in school zones warning
  motorists of the bill's increased penalties.

House Bill 203 now goes to the Senate for further consideration.