House Committee Begins Hearings on Aspen Runnels' Law

COLUMBUS—The House Judiciary Committee Wednesday began hearings on House Bill 203, Aspen Runnels’ Law, announced bill sponsor, State Representative Thomas Hall (R- Madison Twp.) Hall is sponsoring the legislation alongside State Representative Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.).

This legislation comes as a result of the tragic death of Aspen Runnels in May 2024. Runnels was walking from one school building to another when he was struck and killed by a motorist. 

Key provisions of House Bill 203 are as follows: 

• Increases penalties for vehicular manslaughter and vehicular assault that involve speeding or the commission of a traffic offense in an active school zone;
• Doubles the fine for certain traffic offenses that occur in an active school zone;
• Establishes additional requirements for driver’s license reinstatement that apply to an offender who committed vehicular homicide or assault in an active school zone, including completion of a remedial driving course; and
• Establishes requirements governing the posting of signage in school zones warning
  motorists of the bill’s increased penalties.

“I applaud the family, friends, and community took their pain and sorrow and turned it into action,” said Hall during sponsor testimony. “I’d like to specifically thank Aspen’s mother, Christina Alcorn, Trisha Parnell, and the many, many people who have advocated for these changes and helped in getting us to where we are today. This bill will directly improve road safety for Ohio students and ultimately, save lives.” 

House Bill 203 awaits further consideration by the House Judiciary Committee.