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Bill Summary · HB 894

Summary of HB 894 (Ohio, 136th General Assembly)

Purpose and main objective

HB 894, as introduced, seeks to reform Ohio’s framework for proof of financial responsibility (PFR) and the associated debt-related driver’s license suspensions tied to motor vehicle accidents. The bill proposes consolidating and modifying several sections of the Revised Code (Chapter 4509) to adjust how PFR is determined, how security deposits are assessed and collected, when suspensions occur, and how individuals may regain driving privileges after a judgment or failure to pay. A notable feature is the eventual removal of ongoing SR-22 filing requirements for certain individuals, effective for those who have already met or who qualify under specified conditions.

Key provisions and changes

  • Accident reporting with uninsured driver claims (Sec. 4509.06):

    • Allows any involved party to file a written accident report within 90 days (previously stated as six months) alleging uninsured status.
    • Registrar must notify alleged uninsured driver/owner and require proof of financial responsibility within 30 days of the notice.

  • Security assessment and deposits after accidents (Secs. 4509.11, 4509.12, 4509.13):

    • Registrar determines minimum security necessary to cover potential judgments, with a floor not less than $500 for personal injury.
    • Debtors receive notice of required security and a right to a hearing within 30 or 60 days (the text shows 30/60-day windows), with procedures for hearings and confirmations.

  • Reduction of security and deposits (Sec. 4509.14, 4509.15):

    • Registrar may reduce security if excessive, while keeping a $500 minimum for personal injury cases.
    • Deposited security can be refunded if reduced amounts are ordered.

  • License suspensions for nonpayment and failure to deposit security (Sec. 4509.17; 4509.37):

    • Failure to request a hearing or deposit security within the specified time triggers a class F suspension of the driver’s license and related privileges, with the possibility of limited driving privileges if proof of financial responsibility is shown.
    • Provisions cover both residents and nonresidents.

  • Exceptions to security and suspension requirements (Sec. 4509.19):

    • Outlines multiple exemptions, including accidents with no other damages or injuries, certain parked-vehicle scenarios, self-insurance, government entities, and other specific circumstances.

  • Judgments and post-judgment actions (Secs. 4509.37, 4509.40, 4509.42):

    • Certified judgments trigger suspensions and civil penalties. Debtors may regain privileges by proving financial responsibility or by meeting installment requirements, with mechanisms for installments and potential reinstatement upon timely payments.
    • Nonpayment suspension and restoration rules emphasize alternative payment arrangements and consequences for missed installments.

  • Proof of financial responsibility methods (Sec. 4509.45):

    • Broadens acceptable proof to include insurance cards, bonds, certificates of deposit, self-insurance certificates with an accompanying agreement, electronic proofs, and other recognized formats.
    • Specifies the duration (generally one year) for which proof must be maintained, with exceptions for certain suspended scenarios.

  • Phase-out of SR-22 requirement (Section 3):

    • The Registrar must remove SR-22 filing requirements for two groups:
    • Individuals who have met the requirement for one full year as of April 9, 2025.
    • Individuals whose operating privileges were suspended under specified conditions prior to the effective date.

Who would be affected

  • Drivers and vehicle owners involved in motor vehicle accidents, particularly those deemed uninsured or facing judgments.
  • Debtors subject to security deposits, fines, or suspensions, including both residents and nonresidents.
  • Individuals seeking limited driving privileges during suspensions.
  • Those currently subject to SR-22 requirements, who may be relieved of ongoing filing obligations if they fall into the specified groups.

Procedural and timeline considerations

  • Notices and deadlines centralized around 30–60 day windows for hearings and proof of responsibility.
  • Suspension and restoration timelines hinge on deposit or payment of security, filing of proof, and, where applicable, installment arrangements.
  • The bill contemplates a one-year duration for maintained proof of financial responsibility, with potential exemptions and phased removals of SR-22 obligations for eligible groups.

Note: This summary reflects the introduced text and its substantive provisions. If enacted, further amendments or clarifications may be added to the statute.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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