Mansfield Times

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Senate has unanimously passed House Bill (HB) 35, also known as the "Scout's Honor Law," which eliminates the civil statute of limitations for child sexual abuse in bankruptcy cases. This landmark legislation enables survivors and participants in The Boy Scouts of America settlement to receive the full amount owed to them.

State Representative Jessica Miranda, a Democrat from Forest Park, expressed her pride and gratitude for the passage of the bill, stating, "I am so proud of all the hard work and dedication that moved HB 35 to this incredible milestone. Nearly 2,000 survivors put their trust in me to shepherd this bill through the Statehouse. I am thankful for that trust and thankful for the progress we have made for survivors. Survivors of childhood sexual abuse deserve justice and today, we are one step closer."

The bipartisan bill had previously passed in the Ohio House with a vote of 95-0 in March of this year. The urgency to pass the bill arose as the settlement for survivors became available, but Ohio survivors faced obstacles in completing the final steps without the legislation in place. Recognizing the importance of the issue, an emergency clause was added to the bill, making it a priority for the Senate Judiciary Committee.

With the Ohio Senate's approval, HB 35 will now be sent back to the Ohio House for approval of the emergency clause. The final step in this legislative process will be for Governor DeWine to sign Scout's Honor into law, bringing justice and closure to survivors.

The passage of the Scout's Honor Law is a significant victory for survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Ohio. It ensures that they are not hindered by the statute of limitations when seeking justice for the trauma they have endured. This legislation reflects a commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and providing support to survivors.

For more information about HB 35 and its impact, please click here.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/darrell-kick/news/scouts-honor-bill-passed-by-ohio-senate-116945