Lima Reporter

State Representatives Angie King and Josh Williams have put forward legislation to revise Ohio's obscenity laws, aiming to shield children and families from public displays that the bill considers sexualized. Known as the Indecent Exposure Act, this proposal is a reintroduction of House Bill 245, now featuring modifications intended to narrow its scope for better protection of children.

King stated, "I am deeply committed to protecting our children. As a mother and as a legislator, I believe Ohio families should feel safe taking their children to a city park without the risk of coming across an event or person performing in a way that incorporates themes, imagery, and acts intended for mature audiences."

Williams expressed similar concerns, adding, "We are seeing trends of indecent exposure and over-sexualized performances taking place in public in the presence of children. Representative King and I and many other Ohioans don’t agree with these acts taking place in the open. This legislation is simply updating already existing law to the times that we are living in. So, we want to update the obscenity law so we can ensure families and children are protected from these acts."

The act outlines penalties varying from misdemeanors to fourth-degree felonies depending on how the offense occurs. As of now, the bill has yet to receive an official number or be assigned to a House committee for further consideration.