State Rep. Bob Peterson | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Bob Peterson | The Ohio House of Representatives
The Ohio House of Representatives has passed Keith's Law, a piece of legislation aimed at improving the response capabilities of first responders for individuals with special needs during emergencies. State Representative Bob Peterson announced the passage of this bill, which is known as House Bill 144.
The bill proposes the creation of a voluntary statewide database where individuals with special needs can share crucial information ahead of potential crises. This data will be accessible to each county's 9-1-1 system, which will then relay pertinent details to first responders when they are dispatched. The goal is to ensure that emergency personnel are adequately prepared to provide potentially life-saving assistance.
Peterson noted, "This bill was suggested and encouraged by a mother whose child with special needs was beginning to drive and needed unique responses from first responders if faced with an emergency situation." He expressed enthusiasm about advancing the bill further.
The administration of the database will be handled by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Public Safety.
Keith’s Law now moves forward for consideration by the Ohio Senate.
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