State Representative Ted Celeste
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Contact: Jeff Wise, Rep. Celeste’s Legislative Aide 614.644.6005
Rep. Celeste’s Street Racing Legislation Passes Ohio House
Bill Increases Penalties for Illegal Street Racing
COLUMBUS – The Ohio House of Representatives today approved a bill sponsored by State Representative Ted Celeste (D-Grandview Heights) to increase the penalties for illegal street racing in Ohio. With a vote of 90-7, the legislation passed with strong, bipartisan support.
“Illegal street racing is a problem that is occurring in every corner of our state. From big cities to small villages and on our interstates in between, individuals are recklessly endangering the lives of innocent Ohioans when they engage in the need for speed,” said Rep. Celeste in a speech to colleagues on the House floor during debate on the legislation. “Street racing should be on the track or at the drag strip--not on our highways and public streets where putting the pedal to the metal endangers innocent people.”
House Bill 191 generally increases the penalties for street racing. The bill also imposes automatic license suspension and vehicle forfeiture for second offenses.
The legislation was inspired by a street racing incident in early 2008 in which OSU student Monica Durban sustained serious, life-threatening injuries. After meeting with her family, Rep. Celeste saw the need for a uniform statewide law to put an end to this dangerous practice. The Durban family was on hand in the House chambers to watch this important vote.
House Bill 191 now goes to the Ohio Senate for consideration.
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