Mansfield Times

State Representatives Meredith Craig and Melanie Miller have introduced a new piece of legislation named Philip Wigal’s Law. The bill aims to strengthen penalties for drivers who do not comply with Ohio's "Move Over Law." This initiative follows the tragic death of Town and Country Firefighter Lt. Philip Wigal, who was struck by a semi-truck on I-71 near West Salem in 2022. The driver involved did not adhere to the existing law requiring them to slow down or move over.

Representative Craig expressed her commitment to working with the Wigal family on this legislation, stating, "This initiative has been long overdue, and it is crucial that we take action now. I am committed to advancing this bill through the House and working closely with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure that we pass it into law."

Miller emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety for first responders: "Through this legislation, we can make a viable change to help keep Ohio drivers safer all while protecting our first responders and honoring the legacy of Philip Wigal. I am urging my colleagues to make the safety of first responders a top priority and pass this legislation as soon as possible."

Currently, drivers who fail to comply with the Move Over Law face fines up to $300. Under Philip Wigal’s Law, penalties would be increased significantly:

- First Violation: Fine up to $300 (Current Law);

- Subsequent Violations (within one year): Fine up to $1,000;

- Violation Resulting in Injury: Fine up to $5,000 and potential license suspension;

- Violation Resulting in Death: Fine up to $10,000, charge of vehicular homicide, and license suspension.

The proposed legislation is pending assignment of a bill number and committee review.