InnovateOhio, Ohio BMV Online Solutions Save Ohioans Four Million Trips to Deputy Registrar
Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted, in his role as Director of InnovateOhio, announced that because of a number of technology solutions spearheaded by InnovateOhio, in collaboration with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), Ohioans have saved over four million trips to in-person, deputy registrar locations.
“This milestone is a product of InnovateOhio’s dedication to streamlining government services as part of our mission to make Ohio the most innovative, entrepreneurial state in the Midwest,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “It’s great to see that more and more Ohioans are taking advantage of the many BMV services now available online, helping them save time and avoid the line.”
In 2019, InnovateOhio partnered with the Ohio BMV to transform the customer experience. Through this collaboration, Ohioans have saved over 500,000 hours that were previously spent in line at deputy registrar locations.
“The BMV is dedicated to using innovative solutions that enhance the overall customer experience for Ohioans,” said BMV Registrar Charlie Norman. “We constantly look for opportunities to modernize and improve our processes so that we can provide more service options to better meet customers’ diverse needs.”
InnovateOhio | BMV technology tools include:
- “BMV Express” self-service kiosks
BMV self-service kiosks allow customers to quickly renew and print out their vehicle registration. The average transaction takes less than two minutes. After a successful transaction, a new vehicle registration card and license plate sticker print immediately. The total number of kiosks recently expanded from 18 to 24 statewide. Locations can be found here.
- Online Driver’s License & ID Renewal
To renew a driver’s license or identification card, Ohioans are now able to visit bmv.ohio.gov and click on the “DL/ID Renewal” link. After the user is logged in through OH|ID, the application will begin prompting them to answer a series of verification questions. Once approved, the credential will be mailed to the individual.
- Driver Examinations
Online Knowledge Test: New drivers are now able to take the driving knowledge test online, saving customers multiple trips to the BMV.
3rd Party Driver Examination: The BMV is partnering with outside businesses to expand driver examination testing locations throughout Ohio, eliminating long drive times for those who need to take a driver examination test.
- Ohio Title Portal Transfers
Customers can now transfer a title when engaging in a person-to-person sale of a vehicle by using a new online title process. After a sale is completed, and the buyer is in possession of the original paper title, the person can utilize the Ohio Title Portal, securely log-in and apply to “Add Title” under their name. A County Clerk of Courts Title Office then reviews and approves the transaction.
- Get In Line, Online
If an individual does need to visit the BMV, the “Get In Line, Online” service allows customers to advance in the queue without physically waiting in the office. After checking in online, customers have until close of business that day to arrive at the deputy registrar location, check in at a self-service kiosk, and claim their spot in line.
- Redesigned BMV Website
In 2021, InnovateOhio and the Ohio BMV launched a vastly improved, more user-friendly BMV website. The redesign allows Ohio customers to have a faster, easier, and more streamlined experience when they are using this resource.
Ohioans interested in learning more about InnovateOhio’s work can visit innovateohio.gov.
Ohio EMA 2023 Spring Conference Brings Public Safety Leaders Together
In 2019, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) held its fall conference in Fairfield County. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that would be the last in-person conference EMA would hold until this year.
The 2023 EMA Spring Conference proved very successful as it provided an opportunity to strengthen statewide partnerships among emergency management and public safety professionals.
Opening remarks were given by Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick and Ohio Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Andy Wilson. Both speakers gave compelling remarks centering on resilience, communications, and teamwork. Director Merick explained the partnerships built among local, county, and state leaders is paramount to our shared mission in keeping Ohioans safe.
This year’s presentations included: Federal Emergency Management Agency updates, U.S. EPA Inland Planning Initiative, Human Trafficking & Emergency Management, First Responder Wellness, Climate Trends, Integrated Public Alert & Warning System; Columbus Zoo & Aquarium Emergency Response; Agroterrorism; and the Electric Power Sector.
This two-day event was filled with excellent presentations and equally exciting speakers. With attendance of more than 220 public safety professionals, this was a great way to move back to in-person events.
Weathering the Storm in Ohio
Ohio is no stranger to severe weather. In fact, we have had our share of floods, tornadoes, ice storms, and derechos. The one thing these weather events have in common is they can cause property damage, injury, and even death.
Did you know that the number one weather related killer in the United States is flash flooding? Ohio has not seen a flood fatality since 2020, and most of those deaths were caused when people were in their vehicles. This is a stark reminder to never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around and find an alternate route. It isn’t worth the risk to you or the first responders who will be dispatched to rescue you.
In 2022, Ohio had 27 tornadoes confirmed across the state. These storms impacted 25 county/zone areas. Five injuries were reported, and fortunately there were no fatalities. The last confirmed direct fatality in Ohio from a tornado occurred May 27, 2019 from an EF3 tornado in Mercer County. As of April 25, Ohio had seen 23 tornadoes, a higher-than-normal number.
Lightning is another fascinating weather phenomenon, nature's very own light show! But this lightshow can prove fatal as it did in July 2022, when an Ohio man died after being struck by lightning while working on his truck. If you hear thunder, you are at risk of being struck. Take thunderstorms seriously and seek shelter when they approach.
Staying safe during a severe weather event doesn’t have to be difficult. Be ready for severe weather before it arrives by creating an emergency plan, build a kit for your vehicle and home and be ready for anything Mother Nature throws your way!
Taking steps to be prepared can potentially save your life, or the life of someone you love. Learn more on safety and preparedness at ema.ohio.gov.
Fire Service and Hall of Fame Awards
Firefighters run toward danger as others are running to safety. Those heroic scenes play out across Ohio every day. On April 26, some of the most outstanding firefighters in the state gathered at COSI for this year’s Fire Service and Hall of Fame Awards. The event is a collaboration between the Ohio Department of Commerce and EMS.
2023 Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame & Fire Award Recipients
Citizens Award
- Jorge Ragghianti, Lakewood, Cuyahoga County
Fire Service Valor Award
- Capt. Michael Kaake, Lt. Kris Prosser, FF Tyler Abbatiello
- Lt. David Schneberger, Craig Niehaus, FF Alex Siemer
- Colerain Township Fire Department, Hamilton County
- FF Aaron Berkley, Lt. Darby Rehbeck, Newark, Licking County
- Lt. Aaron Polte, Michael McGuire, Steven Swartz
- Toledo Division of Fire and Rescue, Port Clinton, Ottawa County
- FF Nick Tummino, FF John Tomlinson
- Westlake Fire Department, Westlake, Cuyahoga County
- Captain Derek Shenefield, Kevin Whalen, Nicholas J. Woolever, Colton W. Harsh
- Springfield Fire Rescue Division, Springfield, Clark County
Ohio Fire Service Distinguished Service Award
- Orville Buehrer, Washington Township Fire Department, Wood County
- Allan G. Ketzell II, Bridgeport Fire Department, Belmont County
Ohio Fire Service Instructor of the Year
- Ralph W Long Sr, Elida, Allen County
Ohio Fire Officer of the Year
- Dallas Terrell, Wooster, Wayne County
Ohio Fire Educator Lifetime Achievement Award
- Mark A. Mantz, Baltimore, Fairfield County
Ohio Fire Department of the Year
- Reily Township Fire and EMS, Oxford, Butler County
EMS Star of Life Awards Honor Top EMS Personnel
Recipients Represent Ohio’s Most Dedicated First Responders
On May 24, 2023, the division of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) recognized some of Ohio’s bravest and most dedicated first responders at the 2023 EMS Star of Life Awards. Recipients include men and women who risked their own lives or put aside personal challenges to serve their communities.
“The first responders we honored today represent everything that defines public service,” said EMS Executive Director Robert Wagoner. “These crews often encounter people at one of the worst moments of their lives, and it’s their dedication, compassion, and professionalism that help patients and their families navigate those emotionally challenging moments.”
The 2023 EMS Star of Life Awards honorees are:
Agency of the Year: Goshen Township Fire and EMS, by serving their community after a devastating tornado that tore apart their headquarters and caused part of the building to collapse.
EMS Provider of the Year: Jill Dixon, Firefighter/Paramedic, Columbus Division of Fire, who has served the citizens of Columbus for over 27 years and serves as a mentor to new medics.
EMS Medical Director of the Year: Ross Campensa, MD, City of Green Fire Division, who has taught generations of medics and has implemented new policies and procedures that have improved patient outcomes.
Frank Giampetro Distinguished EMS Educator Award: Rita Chambers, City of Akron Fire Department, who has served for over 30 years and has helped design trauma protocols that have been implemented internationally.
EMS Stars:
Clearcreek Fire District, which worked together to stabilize Clearcreek Police Officer Eric Ney after he had been shot in the face, transported him to the nearest level 1 trauma center quickly, and ultimately saved Ney’s life.
Johnston Township Fire Department, particularly paramedic Sophia Minor, who was on her way home after her shift and responded to her grandfather’s house after he suffered a heart attack. Minor and her fellow crew members’ quick action saved her grandfather’s life.
Loveland-Symmes Fire Department, for quick action that prevented a man from losing his arm after it was struck by heavy machinery at his work.
Ripley Life Squad, for rescuing Austin Bellamy from a tree after he was swarmed by angry bees and stung over 20,000 times.
Sandusky County EMS, for their hours of work extricating a woman trapped in her vehicle after a massive pileup on the Ohio Turnpike in blizzard conditions.
Saybrook Township Fire Department crews, that walked a mile through deep snow to get to a patient when roads were impassible and tracked down a plow truck to clear their route to the nearest hospital.
Tipp City Emergency Services, for their work rescuing a horseback rider who was thrown from her horse and severely injured. Crews cut a path through thick foliage to get her to a waiting medical helicopter as quickly as possible.
Westlake Fire Department, for saving a man trapped on the second floor of his burning home.
American Rescue Plan Act Success Stories
Communities all over Ohio have a greater sense of safety thanks to funds distributed by the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS). The division awarded grants provided by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to law enforcement agencies and prosecutors’ offices around the state, based upon applications stating specific needs. Some requests were small, but have made a huge impact.
OCJS awarded the Oak Hill Police Department $20,000. Chief David Ward says he has been able to attract and retain officers in his four-man department.
Trumbull County Prosecutor Dennis Watkins and Chuck Morrow, Chief of the Criminal Division, requested just under $500,000 to fight a growing problem of violent crime in their county. The ARPA grant allowed them to hire a new prosecuting attorney who focuses on repeat offenders. One of those violent offenders was recently convicted and sentenced to 40 years to life in prison.
For more ARPA success stories, click HERE.
Mark Porter Named Ohio Homeland Security Executive Director
Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson named Mark Porter as executive director of Ohio Homeland Security (OHS) in May 2023.
As OHS executive director, Porter will lead the DPS division responsible for analyzing and sharing information, awareness, and vulnerabilities, and in developing strategies to prevent, prepare for, and protect against terrorism and other threats to public safety. OHS accomplishes this work through the Statewide Terrorism Analysis & Crime Center, which provides 24/7 resources, expertise, and information to public safety and homeland security partners around the state.
“Ohio Homeland Security will benefit greatly from Mark’s vast experience building partnerships at both the state and federal level,” Director Wilson said. “He is a proven leader in developing and implementing strategic security plans, and fostering collaborative relationships to help mitigate threats and vulnerabilities.”
Porter served as director and deputy director of Intelligence and National Security for the U.S. Secret Service as well as the Secret Service special agent-in-charge in Ohio. He’s also a former White House Director of the National Security Council (NSC) Terrorism Directorate.
“I appreciate the trust that Governor Mike DeWine and Director Andy Wilson have bestowed in me by making this appointment and I am excited about the opportunity to work with the outstanding men and women of Ohio Homeland Security,” Porter said. “I truly look forward to building on the sterling reputation of OHS.”
In addition to his extensive knowledge and service in Washington, D.C., Porter knows the Buckeye State well. He most recently served as director of Law Enforcement Operations and Special Projects for the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and previously served as director of Public Corruption for Ohio Auditor of State.
Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center
The Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center (ONIC) continues to gain national attention as an authority and resource for other states. The unique expertise of the ONIC’s analysts has been in high demand this year. Journalists from all over Ohio and across the country have interviewed analysts on several topics of public safety bulletins, including new forms of fentanyl, a growing prevalence of polydrug mixtures, a warning for parents about emojis that represent drugs.
Analysts also detected a growing trend of Xylazine showing up in drugs being tested in Ohio crime labs. Some labs estimate 25% to 30% of today's Fentanyl cases also include xylazine. According to the Ohio Department of Health, overdose deaths involving Xylazine have increased each year in Ohio since 2019. Upon learning this information, Governor Mike DeWine signed Executive Order 2023-08D, which directed the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy to classify Xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance. Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” is a non-opioid used as a sedative, anesthetic, and muscle relaxant for animals. It is not approved for use in humans and Naloxone does not reverse an overdose.
On April 13, Cynthia Peterman and Erin Reed from ONIC leadership presented a session called “Knowledge is Power: Approaching Efficient, Cross-Discipline Intelligence-Sharing as a Public Safety Priority” at the 2023 Rx and Illicit Drug Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. They shared with attendees how data sharing across law enforcement and health disciplines. The presentation also explained how the ONIC shares information by hosting a monthly Drug Trends call, heading up the Emerging Drug Scientific Working Group, and sending out public awareness bulletins. The Center also heads up Operation BRIDGE, a multi-pronged approach to addressing the drug problem in Ohio.
ONIC Issues Several Public Safety Bulletins
In an effort to protect the public and raise awareness about dangerous new drug trends or associated problems uncovered via drug investigations, the ONIC publishes public safety bulletins. The bulletins explain the new trend or issue, the danger posed by it, and what Ohioans should look for.
Forms of Fentanyl
In April 2023, the ONIC released a public safety bulletin alerting Ohioans of the various forms of fentanyl being found across the state. Six different physical forms of fentanyl have been reported to ONIC, including powder, tablet, chalk, rock, black tar, and gum. The various forms reported in Ohio contained fentanyl primarily mixed with other substances.
Cryptocurrency Scams
Also in April 2023, the ONIC and the Ohio Department of Aging warned Ohioans of a growing trend of cryptocurrency scams targeting older adults. During the course of drug-related investigations, the ONIC became aware of these types of financial exploitations against older adults and worked in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Aging to bring awareness by issuing a public bulletin to encourage older Ohioans, family members, and caregivers to be on alert.
Xylazine and Synthetic Opioids
In March 2023, the ONIC released a public safety bulletin advising Ohioans of dangerous substances the veterinary sedative xylazine and/or new synthetic opioids (NSOs). The bulletin coincided with the emergency classification of xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance by Governor DeWine and the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy.
Emojis and Potential Drug Activity
Also in March 2023, the ONIC released a public safety bulletin alerting parents that emojis are being used by youth on social media and electronic communications to market, sell, and buy illegal drugs. Emojis used in drug communications commonly refer to the physical, psychological, or physiological characteristics of the drugs. The presence of these emojis in communications can be one indication of possible drug activity, though it is important to note that these meanings are not definitive and emojis can be used in other ways.
Trooper of the Year
Trooper Dana R. Skinner, Toledo Post, earned top honors as the 2022 State Trooper of the Year. She was selected from nine District Troopers of the Year across the state.
Trooper Skinner is a leader among her peers at the Toledo Post in all aspects, including safety belt compliance, removing impaired drivers as well in other ways that cannot be measured. She has dedicated her career to creating positive relationships and encounters with those whom she interacts with throughout her daily operations. As a leader in functional activity at the Toledo Post, she uses those contacts with the public to do her part to educate the motoring public to exercise safe driving practices. She does not simply issue a citation or a warning and move on with her day, instead, she engages in conversation with the motorist to ensure they understand the violation while providing education.
During the 2022 calendar year, Trooper Skinner initiated or responded to 1,440 calls for service. She is one of the leaders in safety belt enforcement at the Toledo Post, issuing 211 safety belt citations and seven child safety seat citations, potentially saving lives of those who travel on Ohio roadways by reinforcing the importance of wearing a safety belt. Her enthusiasm for traffic safety is contagious to those whom she works. In addition to being an advocate for traffic safety, she plays an active part in removing impaired drivers and drugs from our roadways before they affect the community. Trooper Skinner is the true definition of a team player, and she emulates that quality each day she works.
Trooper Skinner joined the Patrol in October 2001 as a member of the 138th Academy Class. She earned her commission in April of the following year and was assigned to the Piqua Post. She has also served at the Patrol’s Training Academy.
East Palestine Train Derailment Response
On Feb. 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern train derailed near East Palestine. The 50-car train crashed while carrying hazardous materials, causing a fire that burned for several days. Five of the derailed train cars were carrying vinyl chloride.
With the community in crisis, the Patrol responded. The Aviation section flew first responders over the scene, which allowed them to see what was going on from above. A video downlink was provided to first responders and local government officials, so on their phones or computers they could see what the helicopter was seeing. Troopers deployed to traffic control points so people could not endanger themselves or disturb the crash site.
Contentious large community forums were held for concerned community members. The Mobile Field Force Unit was utilized three times to ensure safety at those events, so members of the community could gather and exercise their constitutional rights, as well as voice their frustrations.
The Public Affairs Unit was critical to shaping the messaging and communications. East Palestine’s Mayor Trent Conaway did not have a public information office or officer to coordinate traditional and social media when Division public information officers arrived. Lieutenant Ray Santiago, who at that time was a sergeant serving as a regional public information officer, was assigned directly to assist with the mayor’s needs. Lieutenant Santiago also assisted with social media and helped navigate inquiries from the national media.
When there were threats against local officials of East Palestine, Patrol intelligence analysts completed threat analyses to help protect those local officials so that they could continue to protect their community.
Behavioral Health Specialist Joins Patrol
In 2019, a partnership with the Ohio State Troopers Association was started to provide Ohio State Highway Patrol employees with resources in a manner that stigma from asking for help would be minimalized. All sworn troopers will see Program Administrator 2 Jessica L. Curry, the Patrol’s new behavioral health specialist, during their bi-annual graded exercise test (GXT). The behavioral health specialist (BHS) visits will be incorporated with the GXT process after the physical portion is completed. Troopers are the first group assigned to see PA2 Curry. They must attend the meeting, but their participation is voluntary. The hope is that troopers take advantage of the resources and the opportunity to use the BHS meeting to start a path of healing from the exposure to traumatic/critical incidents or acute daily stress. Even if they choose not to speak with her, she will still provide resources to help with things such as getting better sleep and dealing with stress in healthy ways. The resources can also be used by their family members, understanding vicarious trauma directly effects families.
"Jessica is a great addition to the mental wellness program for our agency. With the start of this position, her main focus will be meeting with troopers during their GXT for a mental wellness check. The thought process behind adding a check-in with a behavioral health specialist to the GXT is to reduce stigma surrounding seeking help for a mental health issue. If the visit is mandatory and everyone from the Colonel down has to go, it will be common to see all employees meeting with her. It will hopefully decrease worries or concerns for what peers may “think”, if they are seen in the Employee Wellness area. Jessica is available to all Division employees and anyone seeking assistance or resources will just need to contact her via phone or email. She will confidentially get you the information you or a friend or family member needs."
- Lieutenant Molly J. Harris, Staffing Services, on Program Administrator 2 Jessica L. Curry
Program Administrator 2 Jessica Curry, Staffing Services, began working on February 13 as the division’s new behavioral health specialist. She graduated from Ohio Christian University with a bachelor's degree in psychology and criminology. She also received a master’s degree in criminal justice with a concentration in criminal behavior. She grew up as an Air Force brat and was born in Maryland, but has lived in Ohio for most of her life.
What are you most looking forward to in the position?
"I really love to help people any way I can. First responders and military personnel have a special place in my heart. Many of my family and friends are in law enforcement or military and I see the tremendously hard work they do and the little appreciation they get. I want to be that listening ear and the helping hand for those who deserve it, need it, and want it. In life, we don’t know what we don’t know. I am here to answer questions and talk about mental health, assist in grounding and calming techniques, and connect people with resources and mental health professionals for anyone in the Patrol and their families."
How can people reach you?
My email is jlcurry@dps.ohio.gov.
Ohio Women's Law Enforcement Symposium
At its inaugural Women's Law Enforcement Symposium on March 8, 2023, the Ohio Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment, a division of Office of Criminal Justice Services, shared resources and best practices to develop comprehensive strategies to recruit and retain women in Ohio law enforcement. The event occurred on International Women’s Day.
During the symposium, law enforcement professionals heard from police chiefs, sheriffs, troopers, and law enforcement officers on recruitment and retention strategies during a panel presentation.
In addition, presenters from the Cincinnati Police Department provided perspective on recruiting and retaining women officers and being the first law enforcement agency in Ohio to sign the 30x30 Pledge, a nationwide effort to increase women in police recruit classes to 30% by 2030. The initiative also seeks to advance representation of women in all ranks of a department and to ensure police policies and culture intentionally support the success of qualified women throughout their careers. The Ohio Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment and OCJS joined with the various law enforcement organizations throughout the state to encourage more Ohio law enforcement agencies to sign the 30x30 pledge. The Ohio State Highway Patrol was one of the agencies that signed the pledge during the symposium.
After the symposium, participants also had the opportunity to attend the Ohio Law Enforcement Job Fair and network with 25 law enforcement agencies from across the state.
Comprehensive School Safety Framework released; Millions in school safety grants awarded
Ohio’s Comprehensive School Safety Framework, which outlines evidenced-based strategies that schools can use toward creating physically and emotionally safe environments for students, was released in February by the Ohio School Safety Center.
"There is nothing more important than the well-being of our kids, and this framework outlines strategies that schools can implement to help ensure a safe learning environment and positive school climate,” Governor DeWine said in making the February announcement.
The Ohio School Safety Center (OSSC) developed the framework collaboratively with the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (MHAS).
The framework includes:
- Evidenced-based best practices to assist schools in developing a comprehensive approach that engages school staff, students, and families.
- Important role assignments for key personnel in developing a comprehensive school safety approach including principals, counselors, school security, and law enforcement.
- A list of the short-term, intermediate, and long-term results that the framework will deliver to more holistically support every child across Ohio.
“The spirit of cooperation among state agencies putting this framework together is a great example of the type of effort needed at the local level,” said Emily Torok, Executive Director of the OSSC. “School safety and positive school climate are achieved by comprehensive and collaborative efforts of all school staff and relevant community members. It takes consistent and effective approaches to prevent violence and promote learning.”
More than $215 million in school safety grants awarded past two years
In April, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine awarded more than $42 million to support physical safety and security upgrades at hundreds of Ohio schools.
A total of 624 schools will receive funding as part of the fifth round of Ohio's K-12 School Safety Grant Program. This new round of funding brings the total number of schools served by this program to 2,789 and the total amount of funding awarded to more than $215 million.
"Our educators care deeply about the safety of Ohio students, as evidenced by the thousands of schools that came forward with solid security improvement plans that they intend to carry out with this funding," said Governor DeWine. "There is nothing more important than the safety of our kids, and with today's announcement, every qualifying school that applied for a grant has now received at least one award, including schools in all 88 counties."
Understanding Today’s Threats Against Students and Schools’ briefing
The Ohio School Safety Center (OSSC) in partnership with federal and state agencies, held an intelligence briefing with state and local agencies with a focus on intelligence and resources for Ohio's schools and first responders about threats against schools and students.
During the in-person event May 9 in Powell, law enforcement and other first responders, school resource officers and other school staff heard about the different types of threats, as well as resources for identifying and preventing acts of violence from the following agencies:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- U.S. Secret Service
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Ohio Board of Pharmacy and Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program
- Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center
- Ohio School Safety Center
The OSSC is dedicated to helping schools and first responders with the resources they need to enhance strategies for safety, security, and emergency plan development by addressing both physical security and emotional security (school culture and climate).
2023 Ohio School Safety Summit Held on July 25-26
2023 Ohio School Safety Summit was held July 25 and 26 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and included a variety of keynotes and breakout sessions on best practices, case studies, and evidence-based practices related to both physical and emotional safety.
The Summit also provided an opportunity for diverse public safety, mental health, safety experts, vendors and community leaders to network and build relationships that will help them improve safety practices in their communities.
This event was free and open to the public. Additional details about the summit as well as the full agenda can be found here.
Report Shows Decline in Distracted Driving Since New Ohio Law Went into Effect
One month after Ohio’s strengthened distracted driving law went into effect, new data showed it already making a positive impact on the state’s roadways. The report from Cambridge Mobile Telematics (CMT), the world’s largest telematics service provider, shows Ohio drivers are now spending less time handling their phones while driving since the law went into effect on April 4, 2023.
“Ohio’s new law is already making a difference,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “I’m glad to see that Ohio drivers are making safety a priority and putting their phones down while they drive.”
CMT’s data analysis shows a 8.5% reduction in distracted driving in Ohio so far. In March, Ohio drivers spent an average of 1 minute and 39 seconds interacting with their phones for every hour of driving. From April 4 through May 3, Ohio drivers used their phones while driving 1 minute and 30 seconds, a 9-second drop. In the month since the law went live, CMT estimates that it has helped prevent 540 crashes, one fatality, and $13 million in damages to the Ohio economy.
"We applaud The State of Ohio for their proactive approach to fight distracted driving and save lives on our roads," said Ryan McMahon, SVP of Strategy for Cambridge Mobile Telematics. “We’ve seen again and again how hands-free legislation raises awareness around the dangers of distraction and helps reduce drivers’ phone use. We’re encouraged by the 8.5% reduction in distraction we’ve seen after one month of the law being implemented in Ohio, and are proud to supply road safety planners with the resources and insights needed to evaluate its impact."
How is the data is collected?
CMT has measured the impact of hands-free legislation across eight other states since 2018. The data is collected from usage-based insurance programs, which use telematics technology to monitor driving habits and offer customers a discount on their auto insurance. About 16% of auto insurance customers are now participating in such programs.
Researchers define phone motion distraction as when the phone is rotating with the screen on while the vehicle is moving over 10 mph. In 2020, phone motion in Ohio surged by 14% in the spring. In 2021, the spring and summer seasons saw the highest levels of phone motion distraction, with an average of 1 minute and 35 seconds per hour. In 2022, winter was the highest season, with 1 minute and 41 seconds per hour. The current 9% drop in phone motion distraction in Ohio is the biggest the state has seen since 2020.
“We are pleased that Ohio drivers are taking this new law seriously and beginning to change their behavior, but there is still more work to do,” said Emily Davidson, executive director of the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. “There is no acceptable level of distracted driving. This behavior is dangerous and puts everyone on the road at risk. The goal is for all drivers to put their phones down for the entire time they are behind the wheel.”
On average, states have seen a 16% reduction in phone motion distraction in the week following the law’s implementation compared to the month before. This impact fades to 13% after three months. However, by the end of 2022, the phone motion rate across the eight states was 3% higher compared to the month before the law.
What Drivers Need to Know
Ohio’s new law makes it illegal in most circumstances for drivers to use or hold a cell phone or electronic device while driving. The law also makes this behavior a primary offense and allows law enforcement to immediately pull over a distracted driver upon witnessing a violation.
“This new law is about changing behavior,” said Andy Wilson, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "Drivers need to be more responsible for their own safety and to keep from harming others on our roads.”
Under the previous law, distracted driving was a primary offense only for juvenile drivers, preventing officers from stopping adult distracted drivers unless those drivers also committed a separate primary traffic violation, such as speeding or running a red light.
There are some exceptions, including allowing adult drivers to make or receive calls while using a hands-free device. Other exceptions include:
- Adult drivers are permitted to use GPS if they begin navigation before getting on the road.
- Adults are still permitted to hold a phone directly to their ear for a phone call, but devices may only be activated with a single touch or swipe while driving.
- Adult drivers are also permitted to hold or use electronic devices while stopped at a traffic light or parked on a road or highway during an emergency or road closure.
- Both adults and juveniles can use phones at any time to report an emergency to first responders.
The law includes a 6-month grace period in which law enforcement will issue warnings as part of an effort to educate motorists about the law changes. Beginning in early October, law enforcement officers will begin issuing tickets to those found violating the law.
The Campaign
A public awareness campaign is underway now, encouraging Ohio drivers to ‘Lock Your Screen Before You Rock the Road’. The campaign led by the Governor’s Office, Ohio Traffic Safety Office (OTSO), and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) includes a new website, billboards, printable posters, fact sheets, presentation slides, tip cards, and social media, radio, and television advertisements. These materials relay the simple, but important message of 'Phones Down. It's the Law.' As of May 10, 2023, over 2,100 campaign materials have been distributed to traffic safety partners across Ohio.
Distracted Driving by the Numbers
New research from Nationwide Insurance found:
- 42% of Ohio drivers surveyed admit to making a phone call on a handheld device while driving
- 25% say they’ve texted while driving
- 10% have video chatted
“States that pass hands-free laws typically see a decrease in hand-held phone use and crashes. The data from Cambridge Mobile Telematics shows we’re on the right track to making our streets and highways safer in Ohio,” said Michelle May, manager of ODOT’s Highway Safety Program. “I believe more Ohioans will choose to put their phones downs as they learn about the new law and the dangers of interacting with their screens while driving.”
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, distracted driving has caused at least 60,421 crashes and 209 deaths in Ohio over the past five years, although distracted-driving crashes are believed to be significantly underreported.
DPS Launches “Safe & Sound” Podcast
There are nine divisions within the Department of Public Safety (DPS), each one dedicated to protecting Ohioans in very different ways. The goal of the “Safe & Sound” podcast is not just to talk about the mission of each DPS division, but to tell the stories of Ohioans impacted by the great work by DPS employees. The first episode dropped on April 20 on all major podcast platforms. Host Carol Morgan introduced DPS Director Andy Wilson to listeners, learning more about his background and his future plans for DPS. Director Wilson also outlined the mission of each division, and talked about many of the initiatives the divisions are taking on, each with the goal of improving the safety of Ohioans.
Director Wilson will host upcoming episodes. One features a survivor of the 1974 tornado that devastated Xenia and took the lives of 35 Ohioans. In that episode, Director of Ohio EMA Sima Merick talks about tornado season, what EMA does to alert Ohioans about the potential for tornadoes, and how teams from EMA respond after a crisis. Another episode features a mother who lost her son to a motorcycle crash. She’s an experienced rider herself, who credits a state-sponsored motorcycle safety course with improving her own skills. She believes if her son had taken the course, he might be alive today. Michelle Piko, coordinator of Motorcycle Ohio, talks about the safety courses that are available.
All episodes will be released to the public on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other major podcast platforms. On any of the platforms, the podcast can be found by searching “Safe and Sound.”