Ohio’s ‘Hailey’s Law’ Could Strengthen Online Safety as Children Face Growing Digital Risks
Ohio lawmakers are considering legislation aimed at strengthening protections for children online and improving responses when children go missing.
Known as Hailey’s Law, Senate Bill 379 was introduced in March and is named after 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, whose disappearance and death have renewed concerns about the dangers children can face while using online platforms.
According to federal prosecutors, Hailey allegedly met the man charged in connection with her death through online gaming platforms, including Roblox and League of Legends. Her remains were found in Perry County, Ohio, in February, weeks after she disappeared from her home in Indiana. The accused faces federal charges, but the allegations have not been proven in court.
The proposed legislation would introduce several measures focused on child safety. Among them, certain gaming platforms would be required to verify users’ ages and provide parental controls for accounts used by children.
The bill would also establish a statewide Emergency Pink Alert Programme for certain missing children and require schools to provide age-appropriate education on grooming awareness and prevention.
Hailey’s father, Beau Buzbee, testified in support of the legislation during a June Senate hearing, telling lawmakers that parents cannot address online risks alone.
The bill received its first hearing in May and a second in June but has not recorded further committee action since then.
Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson has also urged parents to discuss online safety with their children, understand who they communicate with and make use of available parental controls.
The proposed law remains before the Ohio Senate General Government Committee.
