OH SB146

Adds new offense to domestic violence law prohibiting knowingly impeding normal breathing or circulation of blood of a family or household member by applying pressure to throat/neck or blocking nose/mouth.

Establishes sentencing penalties with violation of new provision (D) classified as third-degree felony with mandatory prison term; prior domestic violence convictions elevate to second-degree felony.

Provides affirmative defense that act was done as part of medical or other procedure undertaken to aid or benefit victim.

Specifies no physical harm or visible injury must be alleged or proven in prosecution under the new provision.

Applies existing definitions of "family or household member" to new choking/asphyxiation offense, maintaining same relationships covered by current domestic violence statute.