Senator Reynolds Pushes for Parental Consent for Minors on Online Gaming Platforms

COLUMBUS—State Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) held a press conference Friday morning announcing she is sponsoring Senate Bill 379 alongside State Senator Kristina Roegner (R-Hudson), legislation that would require parental consent and age verification for children accessing online gaming platforms. The legislation is in response to the death of Hailey Buzbee, a 17 year-old Indiana high school student who communicated over an online gaming platform with an Ohio man who is alleged to have later abducted and murdered her.

"As lawmakers, our first duty is to safeguard the vulnerable," said Senator Reynolds. "This bill is designed to strengthen protections for minors online, increase accountability for platforms that facilitate communication between adults and children, and give law enforcement the tools needed to intervene before tragedy strikes. You cannot guide what you cannot see and this legislation restores visibility by putting parents back at the front door of the digital world."

Joining Senator Reynolds at the press conference to support the legislation were Beau Buzbee, the father of Hailey Buzbee, and David Rife of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation.

"Hailey was a light who positively impacted so many lives and her loss continues to be felt every single day," said Beau Buzbee. "Some of the greatest risks to our children don't come through the streets, they come through our screens. Our laws must be updated and reflect today's realities and I ask Ohio lawmakers to help prioritize the safety of our children."

Senate Bill 379 has yet to be assigned to a committee for further hearings.

(Click here to view the entire press conference.)

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