Ohio Lawmakers Propose Bill to Ban Police Ticket Quotas

Ohio lawmakers are reintroducing bipartisan legislation, House Bill 131, aimed at banning ticket and arrest quotas for law enforcement agencies. This bill, which has garnered support from both the Fraternal Order of Police and the Ohio Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association, seeks to eliminate the practice of mandating officers to issue a specific number of tickets, which can compromise public trust and officer safety. Proponents argue that such quotas prioritize revenue generation over community safety, with State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney stating that it undermines the integrity of law enforcement. Senator Tom Patton emphasized the dangers associated with enforcing quotas, highlighting that each traffic stop carries risks for officers. The bill has been introduced before but supporters are optimistic about its chances in the current legislative session. A press conference detailing the bill is scheduled for February 26 at the Ohio Statehouse.