Rep. McNally Bill Improving Safety Conditions at Ohio's Public Rest Areas Passes House Homeland Security Committee
COLUMBUS – State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) today announced the Ohio House Homeland Security Committee’s passage of House Bill (HB) 473, legislation requiring the maintenance of a system of security cameras at each rest area over which the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has jurisdiction, a total of 85 rest stops in Ohio.
“I’m grateful this committee heard and took seriously the words and stories of Ohioans who understand better than anyone how important this legislation is to keeping people safer,” said Rep. McNally. “With a great return on investment for taxpayers, I’m proud to keep working on making this one more part of our state’s public safety strategy.”
In committee, HB 473 received support from crime survivors and anti-human trafficking advocates including the Alliance Against Human Trafficking. Mahoning County Prosecutor Gina DeGenova also came to Columbus to testify on the legislation. The Legislative Services Commission estimates the range of cost for adding security cameras and other necessary equipment to a new rest area to be between $183,000 and $508,000. 17 of Ohio’s 85 rest stops are currently closed and some have already begun the process of adding this technology. With ODOT having until June 30, 2031, to implement that bill’s requirements, the total cost to the state, which could be spread over several state budgets, is minimal. Cameras have been linked to deterring crime and solving crimes, all at an overall cost benefit to taxpayers.
“I am pleased to see this bill move forward. The fight against human trafficking is so important and I believe these cameras will provide necessary and critical information in future investigations,” said DeGenova about today’s committee vote on the bill.
The bill now awaits a vote on the floor of the Ohio House. Rep. McNally intends to re-introduce HB 473 in the 136th General Assembly if not made law by the end of the year.