COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio House of Representatives has passed Keith’s Law, a bipartisan piece of legislation designed to better equip first responders when assisting individuals with special needs during emergencies, State Representative Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County) announced Wednesday.
House Bill 144 creates a voluntary statewide registry that allows individuals with special needs—or their families—to provide vital information ahead of time. That data would be integrated into county 9-1-1 systems, enabling dispatchers to relay critical details to first responders during emergency calls.
“Individuals with disabilities may require unique responses during emergency situations, and we have a responsibility to best equip our first responders to do so effectively,” said Rep. Pizzulli.
The registry is designed to improve safety outcomes by giving law enforcement, EMTs, and firefighters the ability to prepare and adapt their response before arriving on the scene. From behavioral triggers and medical needs to communication preferences, the database will give responders critical context when seconds count.
The system will be managed by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Public Safety.
Keith’s Law received strong support during committee testimony from advocacy groups including the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities, the Autism Society of Ohio, and the Ohio Provider Resource Association.
A related bill, HB 321, aims to establish a broader statewide special needs registry with detailed information on developmental, medical, and mental health conditions to further enhance emergency preparedness and response.
Keith’s Law now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.
