(COLUMBUS) - An Ohio bill awaiting action from Gov. Mike DeWine would expand what drivers and passengers are required to provide during certain traffic stops.
House Bill 492 has cleared the Ohio General Assembly and would create a new misdemeanor offense for refusing to give basic identifying information during a qualifying traffic stop.
Current Ohio law already requires drivers to provide a driver's license or proof that they are licensed when stopped by police.
State law also requires people to provide their name, address and date of birth when an officer reasonably suspects they have committed or are about to commit a jailable criminal offense.
Supporters of House Bill 492 say the gap is routine traffic violations. They argue Ohio law does not clearly require a driver or passenger to provide a name, address or date of birth during some motor vehicle stops involving minor offenses.
The bill would change that by requiring drivers and passengers to provide identifying information when an officer reasonably suspects they have violated Ohio motor vehicle laws.
Refusing to provide a name, address or date of birth in those situations could be charged as a fourth-degree misdemeanor.
A conviction could carry up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250.
Supporters say the bill would give law enforcement clearer authority during traffic stops and improve officer safety.
Opponents say the proposal would create a criminal penalty for non-violent conduct and could lead to jail time over a refusal to provide information during a routine traffic stop.
If signed by the governor, the law would take effect 90 days after being filed with the Ohio Secretary of State.