Why Rep. Lauren McNally wants increase in camera surveillance at Ohio rest stops
State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) recently introduced a bill requiring the Ohio Department of Transportation to increase security measures using cameras at public rest stops.
“I’m proud to work on this legislation that helps law enforcement and advocates around the state who want a safer Ohio,” said Rep. McNally.
What is House Bill 473?
House Bill 473 would require ODOT to monitor and maintain security cameras to deter violent crimes at 85 rest stops in Ohio under their jurisdiction if it passes.
“We want Ohio’s travelers and visitors to have a safe place to rest and take a break so they are refreshed and focused when they get back on the road. Cameras are a cost-effective, public safety and crime deterrent tool that we must encourage the state to fully implement in these public spaces,” said Rep. McNally.
Last spring, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced plans to replace and “re-imagine” 33 rest area buildings over the next four years.
Chris Patno is the president of the Ohio Association for Justice and Susan Petersen is chair of the Ohio Association for Justice’s Women’s Caucus.
“Cameras should be installed at all rest areas, even ones recently built or renovated. Prospectively, codifying this policy prioritizes traveler safety for many years to come,“ Patno and Petersen wrote on behalf of the Ohio Association for Justice.
Hope to deter criminal activity at rest stops
Ohio ranks fifth for human trafficking incidents.
Cameras can help investigators deter human trafficking and theft at rest stops, according to McNally.
Data shows having more cameras in the area can prevent criminal activity.
“Cameras can provide a deterrence to criminal activity, a safety blanket for Ohio’s travelers, and necessary evidence when prosecuting crimes and damages such as human trafficking, tragic road issues and other random acts of violence,” Patno and Petersen wrote.
Right now, the bill still needs to be assigned to a committee further consideration and to schedule a hearing.
If House Bill 473 passes, cameras would need to be installed and maintained at all new and existing rest areas.
