SB277

Clarify that child independent activity is not abuse or neglect

Chamber Passed·5/13/26

Ohio SB277 clarifies that children engaging in independent activities without adult supervision are not considered abused or neglected.

Ohio SB277 amends the state's Revised Code to ensure that children engaging in independent activities without adult supervision are not considered abused or neglected. This applies if the activities are appropriate for the child's age, maturity, and abilities, and if the lack of supervision is not grossly negligent. Independent activities include traveling to and from school, outdoor play, and staying home unattended for a reasonable time. This change aims to protect children from being wrongly labeled as abused or neglected.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Last
Passed the Senate · 7–0 · May 13
Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
House floor vote

Sponsors

0
8
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Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

31 Yea

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0 Nay

Calendar

May 13

9:45 AM

Senate Judiciary 4th Hearing, Proponent/Opponent/Interested Party

Apr 15

9:45 AM

Senate Judiciary 3rd Hearing, Opponent/Interested Party

History

May 20

House

Referred to committee: Judiciary

May 19

House

Introduced

May 13

Senate

Reported: Judiciary