NW Ohio Times

The Ohio Senate has passed Senate Bill 173, a bipartisan initiative sponsored by State Senators Theresa Gavarone (R-Bowling Green) and Bill DeMora (D-Columbus). The bill aims to protect Ohio's election officials by ensuring their residential and family information is not disclosed in public records.

"Our election officials keep our democratic republic running smoothly and efficiently, but they are facing real dangers to their personal safety," Gavarone stated. "One of my own local Board of Elections members has faced threats himself, including a threat of a mass shooting at one of their polling locations. This legislation will help keep these people safe as they do their imperative work."

The proposed legislation seeks to add election officials to the list of public service workers whose addresses and family information are redacted from public records requests, thereby providing additional safeguards for them and their families.

Incidents targeting election workers have been on the rise nationwide. Last year, election offices in five states received letters laced with fentanyl and calls to end elections. According to a recent poll conducted by the Brennan Center for Justice, more than a third of surveyed local election officials reported experiencing threats, harassment, or abuse related to their jobs.

Senate Bill 173 will now proceed to the Ohio House for further consideration.