Ohio Senate Passes Senator Shirley Smith’s Legislation To Reform Collateral Sanctions

State Senator Shirley Smith (D-Cleveland) provides remarks on Senate Bill 337 during Senate Session

Columbus – Today, legislation introduced by State Senators Shirley Smith (D-Cleveland) and Bill Seitz (R-Cincinnati) was passed by the Ohio Senate.  Senate Bill 337 is an extensive reform of the collateral sanctions that impose restrictions and limitations on over 2 million Ohioans with misdemeanor and felony convictions.

This legislation addresses a number of issues that have prevented ex-offenders from gaining successful reentry into society and their communities.  It expands Ohio’s records sealing laws by allowing the sealing of one felony and one misdemeanor conviction, or two misdemeanor convictions.  The legislation also creates a Certificate of Qualification for Employment that lifts the automatic disqualification for certain state-issued occupational licenses, and protects employers from negligent hiring lawsuits.

Senate Bill 337 also modifies Ohio’s Child Support laws by giving courts more discretion in calculating Child Support obligations of incarcerated parents and parents with a felony conviction.  The legislation also allows courts to work with individuals who would otherwise have their drivers’ licenses suspended, and it allows the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles to create a repayment plan for license reinstatement fees.

“I have long advocated for expanding Ohio’s record sealing laws, and for giving ex-offenders a second chance when finding employment.  Senate Bill 337 accomplishes these goals,” Senator Smith said to her colleagues during Senate Session.  “It will benefit thousands of rehabilitated citizens who have paid their dues to society and want to move on with their lives.  This legislation eliminates barriers to employment, and it reminds society that ex-offenders have a place among us.”

“I have no doubt that people across the state will come to realize that, like us, ex-offenders want financial stability, employment, opportunity, a secure home, and the ability to support their loved ones.”