Ohio Patriot Act

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The Ohio Patriot Act (SB 9) is an act passed in the U.S. state of Ohio. The act drastically expands the powers of law enforcement, giving police and other officials sweeping authority, including the power to arrest people in public areas who will not give their name, address, and date of birth, even if they have not committed a crime. Supporters of the bill claim it will help fight terrorism. Opponents of the bill say it will violate important civil liberties, such as the right to privacy and free expression.

On October 15, 2005, the amended bill passed the Ohio House of Representatives in a 69-23 vote. It was sent to the Ohio Senate to approve amendments made by the House, and the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 29-2. It was sent to Governor Bob Taft, who signed the bill into law.

The Act is expected to be challenged on grounds of unconstitutionality in courts, based on the First and Fourth Amendments to the United States Constitution.