State Senator Bill Beagle (R–Tipp City)
Beagle Moves to Clarify, Strengthen Child Enticement Laws 

COLUMBUS– State Senator Bill Beagle (R–Tipp City) today introduced Senate Bill 64 to strengthen Ohio’s child enticement laws by clarifying that a potential offender must have unlawful intent for their actions to be considered illegal. The legislation, jointly introduced with State Senator Gayle Manning (R–North Ridgeville), is in response to a recent ruling by the 9th District Court of Appeals where Ohio’s current child enticement law was found unconstitutional. 

“As the father of three children, I can think of few things more important than keeping our kids safe,” said Beagle. “Senate Bill 64 seeks to make Ohio law clear so that our children are protected and would-be offenders are kept accountable.” 

The appellate court found Ohio’s current statute unconstitutional because it lacks an “illicit intent” provision. As part of the Akron case, it was argued that the current law treats a person with unlawful intent the same as a parent who offers a ride home to a child’s friend.

Senate Bill 64 clarifies Ohio’s law to ensure that the statute gives future courts the instruction and ability to convict individuals with intent to harm Ohio’s children. 

Senator Bill Beagle serves the people of Ohio’s 5th Senate District, which includes Miami and Preble Counties as well as portions of Montgomery and Darke Counties. He presides as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Workforce & Economic Development. Learn more at www.OhioSenate.gov/Beagle.