COLUMBUS – The Ohio House on Wednesday unanimously approved a bill offering victims of domestic violence more protection.
The bipartisan measure, called “Aisha’s Law,” allows domestic violence victims to get emergency protection order from a law enforcement officer if a court official is not available.
Democratic lawmakers say the bill’s passage comes at a critical time as prolonged isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a spike in domestic violence cases.
“The current health crisis has placed victims at home with their abusers and the cases of domestic violence are likely to rise. This law is one positive step toward decreasing the number of lives lost at the hands of domestic violence and ensuring victims are protected and have the resources they need,” said Rep. Erica C. Crawley (D-Columbus).
The bill, which now moves to the Senate for consideration, is named for Aisha Fraser, a former Shaker Heights teacher who was murdered by her ex-husband, former state Rep. Lance Mason, in 2018 following years of domestic abuse.
The bill was co-sponsored by Representatives Janine Boyd (D-Cleveland Heights) and Sara Carruthers (R-Hamilton).