State Rep. Jeff Lare | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Jeff Lare | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Representative Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Twp.) presented sponsor testimony to the House Judiciary Committee on a bill aimed at updating Ohio's child custody laws for children born to unmarried parents.
House Bill 256 seeks to clarify legal standards and ensure that both parents are recognized in a child's life. The proposed legislation would grant equal rights and responsibilities to fathers who meet Ohio’s criteria for an “established parent and child relationship” or are listed on their child’s birth certificate. The bill also places custody and parenting time obligations on both mothers and fathers, establishes safeguards when parents cannot cooperate, ensures recognition of out-of-state birth certificates, and restricts parental rights for those convicted of rape or sexual battery.
“House Bill 256 ensures that both mothers and fathers have the opportunity to share in the responsibilities and joys of parenting,” said LaRe during his testimony. “By emphasizing joint involvement, the bill promotes stability, continuity, and healthy relationships for children, which are proven to support emotional and social development.”
The committee will consider House Bill 256 further before any decision is made.
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