ASN NEWS USA — NEWS FLASH

COLUMBUS, OHIO (ASN NEWS USA)— Starting today, October 6, refusing to identify yourself to police during a traffic stop in Ohio can land you a fine — and possibly jail time.

House Bill 492, dubbed “Prohibit interfering with motor vehicle-related arrests,” goes into effect today. The law, introduced by State Reps. Sharon Ray and Cindy Abrams and signed by Gov. Mike DeWine on July 7, makes it a fourth-degree misdemeanor for anyone inside a vehicle to refuse to disclose their name, address, and date of birth to officers during a stop. Penalties can reach up to 30 days in jail or a $250 fine. The law also makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to resist, hinder, obstruct, or abuse an officer attempting an arrest.

Supporters, including Rep. Ray, say the measure makes traffic stops safer for officers, drivers, and the community. Critics of stop-and-identify laws nationally have long raised concerns about how such mandates play out during real-world encounters — especially in communities of color where traffic stops already carry heightened tension.

Ohioans should know their rights and responsibilities before getting behind the wheel today: the law requires the basics — name, address, date of birth — and does not force people to answer questions beyond that.

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