H.B. 670 Summary

• Amends Ohio Revised Code sections 4511.62, 4511.63, 4511.64, and 4511.712 to require vehicle operators to watch, listen, and stop for on-track equipment approaching railroad grade crossings.

• Expands the definition of hazards requiring stops at railroad crossings to include "other on-track equipment" in addition to trains, applying to electric signals, crossing gates, flagperson signals, and audible warnings.

• Requires operators of buses, school vehicles, and hazardous material transport vehicles to stop, listen through open doors/windows, look both directions, and watch for signals indicating approach of trains or on-track equipment before crossing.

• Specifies violations are misdemeanors with graduated penalties: minor misdemeanor for first offense, fourth-degree misdemeanor for one prior conviction, and third-degree misdemeanor for two or more prior convictions within one year.

• Adds distracted driving penalties under section 4511.991 if distracting activity contributes to violation of these railroad crossing safety requirements.