I have always been protective of our children, their rights, their safety, and their happiness. I feel a chilling dread at the thought of convicted child pedophiles still being able to influence our democratic process via voting. This petition is an expression of my disdain for such a situation.

In Ohio, our laws are designed to protect the most vulnerable members of our society, our children. However, it is a fact that convicted child pedophiles can still participate in deciding the future of our children though they have demonstrated a gross disregard for the rights of these young members of our society. This is a disturbing loophole that needs to be addressed.

We understand that having a criminal record does not necessarily revoke a person's voting rights in many U.S states, Ohio included. Yet, certain crimes are so heinous and destructive, they warrant reconsideration of this general rule. Child pedophilia falls squarely into this category.

According to a 2014 report by the U.S Department of Justice, 1 in 7 perpetrators of sexual assault were sexual offenders who targeted children. This same study revealed the sad truth that repeat offenders were four times as likely to commit sex crimes against children.

The time for change is now. We are calling for legislation in Ohio to ban voting rights for convicted child pedophiles. If we are to truly prioritize the protection of our children, our laws must reflect our resolve.

Sign this petition and stand up for the future of our children in Ohio.