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Senate OKs Bill To Block Rapists’ Parental Rights
By: Associated Press
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The Ohio Senate has passed a bill to let rape victims request that a court terminate or deny offenders' parental rights over a child conceived as a result of an attack.
Under the legislation, which passed unanimously Wednesday, the denial of parental rights wouldn't relieve the convicted rapist of any debts owed to the parent or the child. The measure now goes to the House for consideration.
Supporters say the bill is necessary to protect rape victims and their children.
A similar measure was introduced last year by two Democrats. Their bill came after Cleveland kidnapper Ariel Castro asked for permission to visit with the 6-year-old daughter he fathered with one of the three women he raped and held captive for years. A judge denied the request.