Kennedy Kent issues statement on unanimous House passage of her bill to protect Ohio children

State Rep. Bernadine Kennedy Kent (D-Columbus) today released a statement after her bill, House Bill (HB) 137, passed the Ohio House. HB 137 would join Ohio with every other state to mandate law enforcement officials to report child abuse and neglect.

“As lawmakers, our duty is to pass laws that put the health, safety and well-being of Ohioans first—and that begins with our children. I was shocked and saddened to learn that Ohio was the only remaining state not to have law enforcement listed as mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect. Now, thanks to the tremendous support from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, we are one step closer to adding another critical layer of protection for the most vulnerable in our society. I urge the Senate to move quickly and pass this common-sense legislation.”

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.