Mansfield Times

COLUMBUS – Ohio State Representative Jessica E. Miranda (D-Forest Park) has announced that House Bill (HB 35), known as the Scout's Honor Law, has been signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine. The law eliminates the statute of limitations for victims of childhood sexual abuse participating in a bankruptcy settlement. This legislation specifically aims to allow survivors of abuse from the Boy Scouts of America to participate in the national bankruptcy settlement and receive 100% of their settlement.

Expressing her gratitude towards the survivors who entrusted her with this legislation, Rep. Miranda said, "I want to thank all the survivors who put their trust in me to carry this legislation through the Statehouse. I am elated that we were able to get this done in time. I hope that participating in this settlement will bring some peace to the survivors. I am thankful to my joint-sponsor Representative Seitz, Speaker Stephens, President Huffman, and Governor DeWine for their willingness to help survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I am hoping that this is the first step in a statute of limitations reform in Ohio."

HB 35 received unanimous approval from the Senate on September 27th and subsequently passed unanimously by the House on October 11, 2023. Governor DeWine signed the bill into law on October 12th, immediately taking effect in Ohio.

The passing of this legislation is a significant step forward in addressing the issue of childhood sexual abuse and providing justice to survivors. By eliminating the statute of limitations, Ohio is ensuring that survivors can seek legal recourse regardless of the time that has passed since the abuse occurred.

To learn more about HB 35 and its implications, interested individuals can find additional information by clicking here. Additionally, survivors' stories can be heard in the Netflix documentary "Scouts Honor: The Secret Files of The Boy Scouts of America."

The signing of HB 35 into law marks a crucial moment in Ohio's commitment to supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse. This legislation not only provides a pathway for justice but also sends a clear message that Ohio stands with survivors and is dedicated to holding abusers accountable.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/darrell-kick/news/rep-mirandas-scouts-honor-bill-signed-into-law-117106