Columbus – The following statement may be attributed to Auditor of State Dave Yost regarding the passage of Senate Bill 4. The legislation allows for the expungement of certain criminal offenses when it can be shown that the offender’s participation in those offenses was the result of human trafficking.  

“Denying victims of human trafficking a second chance at life is nothing short of an injustice,” Auditor Yost said. “This legislation finally tears down some of the obstacles that for years have wrongly deprived these victims of a fair shot at life.”

Auditor Yost expressed his sincere appreciation for the effort and support of Senator Kunze, Senator Oelslager and President Obhof, as well as Sue Pohler and Judge Paul Herbert, who advocated for the legislation. 

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The Auditor of State’s office, one of five independently elected statewide offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,900 state and local government agencies.  Under the direction of Auditor Dave Yost, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies and promotes transparency in government.

Contact:
Beth Gianforcaro
Press Secretary
614-644-1111