Rep. Antonio is Pleased to Announce Passage of Rape Crisis Center Funding

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) and Chair of the Ohio House Democratic Women’s Caucus is pleased to announce passage of Sub HB 108, legislation to provide first-time funding to 27 rape crisis centers throughout the state by appropriating $2 million from the General Revenue Fund.  Rep. Antonio signed on in support as a cosponsor of the legislation since it was introduced.  The bill also establishes a Rape Crisis Program Trust Fund administered by the Attorney General and funded through registration fees of sex offenders, new fines for sexually oriented offenses and donations.

“This legislation is long overdue,” said Rep. Antonio. “For the thousands of survivors of sexual assault there is new hope for healing through programs that could be supported throughout Ohio by this bill.”

The State Victims Assistance Advisory Council, which provides recommendations and advocacy for victim services and polices, would gain two new members under HB 108.

If the bill becomes law, Ohio would be more in line with neighboring states that provide dedicated state funding for similar rape crisis programs and services. Currently, Ohio’s network of rape crisis programs provides coverage to 37 counties and receives no state funding. The Ohio House unanimously approved the bill.