OH HB708

Allows offenders to request reduction of previously-imposed penalties if the penalty for their offense is later reduced by changes to the Ohio Revised Code or Ohio Constitution.

Defines penalty reductions to include changes in prison/jail term length or range, changes in offense classification that reduce felony degree or convert felony to misdemeanor, repeal of offense prohibitions, or other changes that shorten or lessen punishment.

Requires offenders to apply to the sentencing court within thirty days, which must rule on the application within thirty days using a sample form prescribed by the state criminal sentencing commission.

Excludes offenses of violence from eligibility and requires courts to comply with sentencing purposes and principles when determining reduced penalties.

Directs the state criminal sentencing commission to review new legislation for penalty reductions and notify the state public defender, county public defenders, and correctional institution inspection committee of any reductions identified.