"Liv's Law" looks to make impact in Ohio with harsher drunk driving penalties

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Lawmakers are now home for the holidays, but not before several bills were pushed across the finish line last week. Among the bills that beat the end-of-the-year deadline is House Bill 37, which is also known as "Liv's Law."

Liv's Law creates harsher penalties for those convicted of driving under the influence, particularly for repeat offenders. "It was very emotional. But I knew that one of the things Liv believed was justice, and to save a life, she would be so proud," Liv's mother, Teresa Wright, reflects.

House Bill 37 -- or Liv's Law -- is the years long effort of Bryan and Teresa Wright. The couple says they were 'overwhelmed' last Wednesday when lawmakers voted to pass the legislation, that they say, sends a timely message before the holidays.

"That promise that I made to her, the very first one, was that I would seek justice until my very last breath. And we [ were ] able to do that," says Bryan. Bryan and Teresa's daughter -- Oliva -- was killed by a drunk driver near Ashville back in September of 2020.

Since then, they've worked tirelessly to reform Ohio's impaired driving laws, not just for their daughter, but for the many victim's like her. "I hope that victim survivors in the state of Ohio feel like we did them justice. We did the best we could, but we certainly felt the weight of that," Bryan admits.

Sponsored by Representatives Mark Johnson and Kevin Miller, HB 37 is the state's first significant impaired driving legislation in more than 30 years. "This is probably the most meaningful piece of legislation I've done since I've been here, in my four-year tenure," Johnson emphasizes.

In addition to a new, four-tiered system. with escalating fines and jail time, the legislation also expands on 'ignition interlock orders,' which require convicted drivers to use a breathalyzer before operating their vehicle. "To me, it's just common sense and it's the right thing to do. And I'm proud of what we've worked on and proud of what we've done," Johnson adds.

The bill has evolved since it's initial draft back in 2021. The Wright's admit it's not perfect, but say that Olivia's spirit for justice lives within it. "I think that we've been her voice. We've been her voice...and we're grateful," Teresa concedes.

While Christmas and holidays haven't been the same since that night, the Wright's say Liv's Law brings a sense of peace and closure. And with Christmas just two days away, they urge Ohioans to be responsible as they celebrate the holidays this season.

"We haven't put up a Christmas tree, we haven't went to a Christmas dinner, we haven't sang a Christmas carol. We've been fighting for justice for our daughter," says Bryan. "Don't put someone else at risk. It just simply isn't worth it."

House Bill 37 will now head to Governor Mike DeWine's desk for his signature.