Bill would secure child custody for active military personnel

COLUMBUS

Enlisted Ohioans would no longer have to face a loss of child custody when deployed for military service, under legislation passed by the Ohio House.

Substitute House Bill 121 would provide court protections for military men and women and ensure contact with their children while on active duty.

The legislation passed the Ohio House last week on a unanimous vote and heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

“While our men and women are serving our nation, the last thing they should be concerned about is whether they’ll hear from their child,” said Rep. Cliff Rosenberger, a Republican from Clarksville and the bill’s primary sponsor. “Because, after all, their duty is to be over there to protect their families and their citizens and those very children that they love and hold so dear to their heart.”

Under current state law, courts can consider a parent’s active military service in making decisions about child custody issues.

“Members of our military are being forced to choose between serving our nation and raising a family,” Rosenberger said.

For the complete story, read Sunday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.