Cuyahoga County coalition urges funding for House Bill 96 against human trafficking crisis

The Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting public health and safety, including human trafficking, emergency response mapping, and cardiac arrest survival rates.

One of the primary topics was House Bill 96, which aims to enhance funding for initiatives combating human trafficking. Kirsty Munsey, president of the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking, emphasized the ongoing crisis in Ohio, citing the state's extensive highway system and economic disparities as contributing factors. Munsey urged the committee to continue and increase funding, highlighting the importance of trauma-informed training and improved data collection to better identify and support victims.

The committee also heard from Zach Query of the Critical Response Group, who advocated for an amendment to establish a standardized emergency mapping program for schools. Query explained that effective maps are essential for first responders during emergencies, as they provide crucial information in high-stress situations. He noted that many responders currently rely on outdated blueprints, which can hinder response times. The proposed amendment aims to improve safety for students and educators by ensuring that all responders have access to accurate and easily interpretable maps.

Additionally, Tim Lewis from the American Heart Association and Dr. Justin Benoit from Ohio Cares presented on the importance of improving survival rates from cardiac arrest. They highlighted that Ohio has one of the lowest rates of bystander CPR in the nation, which significantly impacts survival outcomes. Both speakers called for increased funding to support initiatives that enhance community awareness and training in CPR, emphasizing that timely intervention can triple the chances of survival.

The discussions underscored the need for continued investment in public health initiatives and emergency preparedness in Ohio. The committee's support for House Bill 96 and its amendments could lead to significant improvements in addressing human trafficking, enhancing school safety, and increasing survival rates from cardiac emergencies. The outcomes of this meeting may shape future legislative efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and improving community health across the state.