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Ohio House strengthens 'move over' law after fatal roadside strikes
Summary
The House passed House Bill 132, named Philip Weigel's Law, expanding penalties for drivers who fail to slow down or move over for stationary vehicles with flashing lights; the bill passed unanimously 93–0.
The Ohio House of Representatives on Wednesday passed House Bill 132, called Philip Weigel's Law, to increase penalties for drivers who fail to slow down or move over for stationary vehicles displaying flashing or rotating lights. The measure passed 93–0.
Supporters said the bill responds to preventable deaths of first responders and roadside workers. "These are the men and women who keep our communities safe," Representative Craig said on the floor. Representative Melanie Miller, a sponsor, said the bill "strengthens the move over law by introducing tiered penalties that reflect the seriousness of the violation." She described penalties ranging from up to $300 for a first offense to up to $10,000 and a vehicular homicide charge if a death results.
The bill, which received unanimous support in the House Judiciary Committee, applies its penalties to motorists who fail to move over or slow down for police, fire, EMS, tow trucks, highway maintenance crews and utility workers. Sponsors cited recent local cases in which roadside workers were struck and killed as motivating examples. Representative Synenberg said the measure is "common sense" and urged colleagues that "when you see flashing lights move over, slow down, and give space. This is not just courtesy, it's the law."
Passage on the House floor sends the bill to the Senate. The text adopted on third reading clarifies the tiered fines and attaches possible license suspension for serious violations. Committee and sponsor statements emphasized the bill as a public-safety measure rather than a revenue change.
