Leader Russo Celebrates Passage of Closing Archaic, Spousal Rape Loophole in Ohio

COLUMBUS - Ohio House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) celebrates the passage of House Bill (HB) 161, eliminating once and for all spousal exceptions for sex offenses from Ohio code, while also allowing  individuals to provide testimony against their spouse in the prosecution of any of the specified offenses. Closing the spousal-rape loophole has been championed by several past members of the Democratic Caucus, including former state Rep. Jessica E. Miranda (D-Forest Park) who introduced HB 161 this General Assembly. 

“I am thankful and proud of former state Rep. Jessica E. Miranda’s dedication to eliminating the archaic loophole in our state’s law,” said Leader Russo. “This was a necessary step, opening the door for survivors of sexual assault to seek help and pursue justice.”

The bill now heads to the governor's desk for his signature.