H.B. 357 - Safe and Reliable Texting Act

• Requires U.S. phone number linked mobile texting services to implement five security protections within six months of rule adoption, including data encryption, full-quality media transmission, read receipts, typing indicators, and internet protocol network support for both group and cross-platform messaging.

• Mandates texting services prioritize available networks that support the required security protections whenever possible when selecting communication networks for message exchange.

• Authorizes the Ohio Attorney General to bring civil enforcement actions in courts of common pleas against any person or entity violating the security requirements.

• Imposes a civil forfeiture penalty of $10 per user per month for each month a texting service violates the security requirements, and requires courts to immediately enjoin unlawful activity upon finding a violation.

• Directs the Director of Public Safety to adopt implementing rules within 90 days of the act's effective date.