OH HB496

Creates new section 306.20 authorizing Ohio transit systems to post notices stating "WE WILL NOT TOLERATE any form of threatening or aggressive behavior toward our staff" and informing the public that assaults against staff might result in felony conviction.

Amends section 2903.13 to create division (C)(10) establishing assault against Ohio transit system operators, maintenance workers, or contracted employees as a felony of the fifth degree when victim is engaged in performance of duties, or a felony of the fourth degree if offender has prior assault or homicide conviction against transit personnel.

Allows courts to impose fines up to $5,000 and prohibit offenders from riding transit buses or rail cars for six months (first offense) or lifetime (if prior conviction involving transit employees).

Amends section 2917.41 to increase penalty for evading payment of public transportation fares from a misdemeanor of the fourth degree to a misdemeanor of the second degree.

Changes penalties for related transit system violations including altering passes, tickets, or tokens to a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.