Sub. HB 251 Summary

• Eliminates Community Control Presumption: Removes the mandatory presumption requiring community control sanctions for fourth and fifth degree felonies, giving courts discretion to impose prison terms instead.

• Modifies Sentencing Framework: Changes section 2929.13 of the Revised Code to eliminate the special sentencing mechanism (former division B(1)) that previously mandated community control for most lower-level felonies.

• Applies to Drug Offenses: Changes sentencing provisions for drug abuse offenses under Chapter 2925, replacing presumptions favoring community control with provisions allowing discretionary sentencing based on section 2929.13 division (B) or (C).

• Affects Appeal Rights: Updates section 2953.08 to align appellate review standards with the new sentencing structure, allowing defendants to appeal sentences for fourth and fifth degree felonies under modified criteria.

• Intervention in Lieu Program Remains: Preserves section 2951.041 allowing courts to accept requests for intervention in lieu of conviction for eligible offenders with drug or alcohol abuse or mental health issues.