State Rep. Bill Roemer | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Bill Roemer | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Representatives Bill Roemer and Josh Williams have announced the passage of a new bill designed to improve public safety in Ohio. The legislation, known as the Escaped Convict Alert Program (ECAP), aims to alert the public when an incarcerated felon escapes from custody.
The program will be managed by local law enforcement agencies, which will activate ECAP upon receiving notification of an escape. Representative Roemer emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This legislation will help close the communication gap and to ensure that when a dangerous felon escapes custody, Ohioans are not left unaware and unprotected.” He added that the program is intended to provide timely warnings about immediate threats to public safety.
Key features of the legislation include allowing local or regional adaptations of the alert system for flexibility in jurisdictions with existing programs. It also provides liability protections for broadcasters and systems participating in good faith, regardless of whether an alert is broadcasted. Furthermore, it clarifies that ECAP does not authorize use of the federal Emergency Alert System unless federally permitted.
Representative Williams highlighted the benefits of House Bill 23 by saying, “House Bill 23 strengthens our public safety framework by enabling swift, responsible communication during high-risk situations—without imposing undue liability or operational burdens.”
Following its passage in the House, House Bill 23 will proceed to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.
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