House Committee Begins Hearings on Bill to Combat Drug and Human Trafficking in Ohio

COLUMBUS –State Reps. Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and D.J. Swearingen (R-Huron) today provided sponsor testimony on House Bill 230 during a House Homeland Security Committee meeting.

In response to the staggering increase in drug overdoses, specifically fentanyl poisoning, in Ohio and throughout the United States, this legislation will directly combat the drug and human trafficking crises in Ohio.

“We are looking forward to continuing to work with our law enforcement and prosecutors, as well as this committee on this important legislation to keep our communities safe,” said Abrams during sponsor testimony. “It is crucial that we take steps to protect our children and greater communities from the current drug and human trafficking epidemics.”

Key provisions of the bill are as follows:

• Increases drug trafficking charges for cocaine, fentanyl-related compounds, heroin and methamphetamine;
• Raises the charge for human trafficking to an F1 with its expansion of the definition of human trafficking; and
• Adds a specification that if someone is found or pleads guilty to a fentanyl-related death, there is a mandatory prison term of five years.

“This bill will ensure that the appropriate individuals face consequences for their horrific actions,” said Swearingen. “It is our responsibility to support law enforcement and protect all Ohioans.”

House Bill 230 will continue to receive hearings in the House Homeland Security Committee.