NEWS RELEASE

RAINN Urges Ohio Governor Mike DeWine to Sign Bill to Close Spousal Rape Loophole

Columbus, O.H. (April 25, 2024) - RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization released the following statement as H.B. 161 heads to Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s desk. This bill eliminates the spousal exception rule and permits victims to testify against their spouse. It is necessary to prevent sexual violence and provide justice to survivors, regardless of marital status. Currently Ohio law makes it legal for someone to rape their spouse. “People should be legally protected from sexual violence in their own homes and from their spouses,” said Stefan Turkheimer, RAINN vice president of public policy. “Ohio’s arcane laws were failing survivors of sexual violence by keeping them from pursuing the justice that they deserve. RAINN urges Governor DeWine to close the spousal rape loophole in Ohio and thanks Representatives Jessica E. Miranda (D-District 28) and Brett Hillyer (R-District 51) for their leadership on this critical legislation.”

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About RAINN

RAINN, the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, help organizations improve their sexual assault prevention and response programs, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, free, confidential help is available 24/7 by calling 800.656.HOPE (4673) or visiting hotline.RAINN.org.