OH HB161

Summary of Ohio HB 161

• Eliminates spousal exceptions for rape, sexual battery, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, gross sexual imposition, sexual imposition, and importuning, allowing prosecution of these offenses when committed against a spouse
• Removes language from Ohio Revised Code sections 2907.02 through 2907.07 that previously excluded spouses from protection under these sexual offense statutes
• Amends section 2945.42 to permit a spouse to testify against their spouse in prosecutions for rape, sexual battery, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, gross sexual imposition, sexual imposition, and importuning
• Creates an exception to spousal communication privilege, allowing testimony about communications or acts during marriage in cases involving these sexual offenses committed against a spouse