Ohio Enacts Law Against Unwanted Tracking

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed Senate Bill 100 into law, making it illegal to track individuals using devices like GPS trackers and Apple AirTags without their consent, effective March 2024. The legislation received unanimous support in both the Ohio House and Senate and acknowledges exceptions for parents tracking their minor children and law enforcement activities. This law addresses a significant gap in existing stalking laws, which previously required a pattern of behavior for prosecution, thus enhancing victim safety and accountability for offenders. It establishes penalties ranging from first-degree misdemeanors to fourth-degree felonies in aggravated circumstances, such as prior stalking convictions. The bill was influenced by cases of stalking, including the tragic murder of Heidi Moon, which highlighted the dangers of non-consensual tracking. Advocates believe this law will empower victims and improve legal responses to stalking incidents.