By Okon Ekpenyong and Irina Perry

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today signed 18 bills into law, including House Bill 247, named after a 12-year-old Reynoldsburg resident, Russel Avery, who needed facial reconstruction after being attacked by two neighborhood Pitbulls. Sponsored by State Reps. Kevin D. Miller (R-Newark) and Meredith R. Lawson-Rowe (D-Reynoldsburg) introduced this bipartisan bill that amends a law regarding dangerous and vicious dogs.

The bill does not in any way restrict residents from owning dogs like Pitbulls that attacked Avery; however, it asks owners of such breeds to educate themselves and ensure they are adequately secured or have proper fencing, especially in residential areas where there are neighboring children.

The attack did result in the complete amputation of her left ear, in addition to significant partial damage to her right ear. It also left her with a noticeable deformity. Additionally, she suffered a fracture below her right ear, complicating her injuries further. The assault also inflicted extensive trauma to her facial structure and nose, leading to severe disfigurement and requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries.

At the signing of HB 247, 12-year-old Avery stood with Governor DeWine, celebrating alongside her family and the bill’s sponsors.

“She faced surgeries and rehabilitation after the attack, but we are grateful that she has taken her story public. She also brought her story to the state legislature, and because Avery did that, we can sign this bill today,” DeWine said.

Before signing the bill, the governor looked up at Avery and said, “Thank you very much for doing this. Now, let’s sign this bill.” After signing the bill, the governor handed each pen used in the signing ceremony to those involved in the legislation, including Avery’s family, legislators, and supporters.

The bipartisan effort included Republican Miller and Democrat Lawson-Rowe, highlighting it as a universal issue. Ohio’s revision to its vicious dog law reflects a nationwide trend, as many states are tightening regulations or revising their laws.

Ohio’s revision imposes stricter regulations on dog owners when their dog harms someone, requiring a full investigation into negligence and the lack of preventive measures. The bill includes protections for dogs defending themselves, their owners, and property. If a dog injures or kills someone, it allows authorities time to investigate and may require the dog’s termination, according to the DeWine administration.

Animal Control may have the right to seize the dog immediately after the attack.
In other states, such as Florida, there is a bill called “Trooper’s Law,” and violations of this law can result in third-degree felony charges for abandoning or leaving a dog tied up during a natural disaster or emergency mandatory evacuation. Violators can face up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. And this is one example of what a state like Florida is doing.

Additionally, in a State like Delaware, those convicted are put on an online registry and barred from adopting shelter animals, helping to prevent repeat offenses. Ohio’s HB247 also prohibits offenders from owning similar breeds or specific types, including unspayed or unneutered dogs older than 12 weeks.

For Educational purposes, local and county Animal shelters and veterinary clinics continuously provide resources and guidance to help dog owners prevent attacks. When adopting from a shelter, the shelter must disclose the dog’s history to ensure the owner understands the dog’s welfare and the steps to take in the event of an attack.

When considering how other states’ laws might compare to Avery’s Law, it’s clear that each legislation is different. Some states concentrate more on punishment for neglect or abuse, while others emphasize tracking offenders or community education. Understanding these different strategies can help inform discussions about public safety and animal welfare in Ohio and beyond.

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