State Representatives Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) and Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Township) announce the passage of legislation to create an alert program to increase public safety when a convict escapes from custody.
The Escaped Convict Alert Program (ECAP) would be used to alert the public to an incarcerated felon who has escaped from a jail, workhouse or correctional institution. Local law enforcement will be the controlling agency that would activate the ECAP once they are informed of the escape.
“This legislation will help close the communication gap to ensure that when a dangerous felon escapes custody, Ohioans are not left unaware and unprotected,” said Roemer. “The public deserves better when it comes to timely, consistent and accessible warnings about immediate threats to their safety. ECAP will provide the timely warning needed.”
The legislation also will provide the following:
•Allow for local or regional adaptations of the alert system, ensuring flexibility for jurisdictions with existing programs;
•Grant liability protections to broadcasters and systems that participate in good faith, regardless of whether an alert is ultimately broadcast, and
•Clarifiy that ECAP does not permit use of the federal Emergency Alert System unless expressly allowed by federal law.
“House Bill 23 strengthens our public safety framework by enabling swift, responsible communication during highrisk situations—without imposing undue liability or operational burdens,” said Williams.
House Bill 23 will now head to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.
