Butler County Today

The House Judiciary Committee has initiated hearings on House Bill 203, known as Aspen Runnels' Law. The bill is sponsored by State Representative Thomas Hall from Madison Township, in collaboration with State Representative Josh Williams from Sylvania Township.

The proposed legislation follows the death of Aspen Runnels in May 2024. Runnels was fatally struck by a motorist while walking between school buildings.

House Bill 203 includes several key measures:

- Increased penalties for vehicular manslaughter and assault involving speeding or traffic offenses in active school zones.

- Doubled fines for specific traffic violations occurring in these zones.

- Additional requirements for driver's license reinstatement for offenders involved in vehicular homicide or assault within school zones, including a remedial driving course.

- Mandated signage in school zones to alert drivers about heightened penalties.

Representative Hall expressed gratitude during his testimony: “I applaud the family, friends, and community took their pain and sorrow and turned it into action. I’d like to specifically thank Aspen’s mother, Christina Alcorn, Trisha Parnell, and the many, many people who have advocated for these changes and helped in getting us to where we are today. This bill will directly improve road safety for Ohio students and ultimately, save lives.”

The bill is set to undergo further evaluation by the House Judiciary Committee.