Morning Briefing: Monday, Dec. 16, 2024

Lawmakers are trying to build more accountability in sexual abuse cases.

Today in the Morning Briefing, we look at the bill that’s headed to the governor’s desk and what it would require for reporting and punishment in sexual abuse cases.

If you have thoughts or feedback on this newsletter or other news tips, please let me know at Kyle.Nagel@coxinc.com.

Want to read the digital version of the newspaper? Click here for our daily ePaper.

The newsletter should take about 2 minutes, 49 seconds to read.

***


Proposed law would increase accountability on doctors spurred on by Richard Strauss abuses

A bill increasing the accountability of medical professionals in regard to sexual abuses ― and those who fail to report those crimes ― passed the Ohio House last week by a vote of 84-0 and received additional approval from the Ohio Senate.

• The case that caused it: The bill is meant to prevent the kinds of abuses committed by Richard Strauss, a deceased Ohio State University physician accused of being a sexual predator during his two decades on campus.

• Adding responsibility: The bill expands the definition of sexual battery by adding licensed medical professionals to the list of types of offenders such as teachers, coaches and mental health professionals already contained in the sexual battery statute.

• What’s next: The bill is now headed to the governor’s desk for signing.


What to know today

• One big takeaway: Following the recent resignation of Ward 3 Councilman Ronald Vaughn, Trotwood is accepting applications to fill the position.

• Tip of the day: A Montgomery County nonprofit received a $1.5 million federal grant for job skill development and career preparation for young people.

• Person to know today: Vaniti Byrd, the creator of natural skincare line Baba Love Organics, whose expanded brick-and-mortar location will open soon on Wayne Avenue in downtown Dayton.

• Photo of the day: University of Dayton basketball players and fans celebrate the Flyers’ upset of No. 6 Marquette on Saturday at UD Arena. Dave Jablonski has a full photo gallery of the action.