Roemer, Williams Deliver Win for Public Safety as Governor DeWine Signs House Bill 23 Into Law

COLUMBUS – Governor DeWine signed the Escaped Convict Alert Program (ECAP) into law on Monday. Introduced by State Representatives Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) and Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.), this legislation will strengthen public safety through a new alert system which will notify residents when a nearby convict escapes from custody. 

ECAP will be used to alert the public to an incarcerated felon that has escaped from a jail, workhouse or correctional institution. Local law enforcement will be the controlling agency that would activate the ECAP once they are informed of the escape. 

“The best bills are those which act for the common good and lead to a safer, stronger society,” said Roemer. “This commonsense legislation will do just that. Awareness is the foundation of public safety, and ECAP will ensure that every community in Ohio receives the information it needs when a threat arises. This bill is a huge win for law enforcement, and for every citizen in Ohio.”

The legislation will also provide the following:

• Allows for local or regional adaptations of the alert system, ensuring flexibility for jurisdictions with existing programs;
• Grants liability protections to broadcasters and systems that participate in good faith, regardless of whether an alert is ultimately broadcast, and;
• Clarifies that ECAP does not permit use of the federal Emergency Alert System unless expressly allowed by federal law.
   

"Public safety is about making sure Ohioans have the information they need to stay safe, and ECAP does just that," said Williams. "By providing timely alerts when a convicted criminal escapes custody, we’re empowering communities and supporting law enforcement in keeping our neighborhoods secure. This is a commonsense solution that strengthens Ohio’s commitment to protecting its citizens.”

With ECAP now signed into law, Ohio has taken a decisive step towards stronger, more responsive public safety. Legislators are confident that this new system will support law enforcement agencies and bring a greater peace of mind to communities across the state.