Cleveland City Council Passes Emergency Resolution Opposing New State Traffic Law
Cleveland City Council has passed an emergency resolution expressing formal opposition to Ohio House Bill 492, a new state law that changes how motorists interact with law enforcement during traffic stops. Introduced by Council Member Starr, Resolution No. 883-2026 addresses concerns that the law could impact civil liberties, racial equity, and the level of trust between Cleveland residents and police officers.
What's in the file
The resolution opposes the implementation of HB 492, which was signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine on July 7, 2026. According to 883-2026-FOR ADOPTION-Starr - Resolution opposing HB 492, the law requires drivers—and in certain circumstances, passengers—to provide their name, address, and date of birth to a peace officer during specific lawful traffic-related encounters. It also expands penalties related to interfering with certain motor vehicle-related arrests.
The Council cited several reasons for its opposition, including:
- Concerns that the law may increase interactions between law enforcement and residents during routine stops, potentially leading to misunderstandings, escalations, or unnecessary criminal charges.
- The potential for unintended disparate impacts on Black and Brown communities, which the record notes have historically experienced disproportionate traffic enforcement.
- A need for robust public education to prevent confusion regarding the legal rights and responsibilities of motorists.
To address these concerns, the Council is requesting the following actions from the State of Ohio:
- That the Ohio General Assembly review the law's implementation and consider amendments to protect against discriminatory enforcement and constitutional violations.
- That the Ohio Attorney General issue public guidance explaining the rights and responsibilities of motorists and passengers.
- That the State require comprehensive statewide training for law enforcement regarding de-escalation, implicit bias, and constitutional policing.
- That the General Assembly evaluate the law after one year and issue a public report examining citations, arrests, demographic and geographic data, and whether the law improved officer safety.
Who may be affected
- Motorists and passengers in Cleveland who may face new requirements to provide identifying information during traffic stops.
- Black and Brown communities who the resolution notes have historically experienced disproportionate police contact.
- Law enforcement agencies who may be required to undergo new training and collect demographic data for public reporting.
- The Ohio General Assembly and Attorney General, who are urged to review the law and provide public guidance.
Status and timeline
July 15, 2026: The resolution was read for a third time and adopted by Council.
The resolution was declared an emergency measure. Because it received the required affirmative votes, it was intended to take effect immediately upon adoption and approval by the Mayor.
Residents can verify the details of this resolution by reviewing the official record at the Cleveland City Council website.
Source record
- File
- 883-2026
- Type
- Emergency Resolution
- Status
- Passed
- Committee
- City Council
- Introduced
- July 13, 2026
Official documents
- 883-2026-FOR ADOPTION-Starr - Resolution opposing HB 492
- FINAL VERSION City Record July 24, 2026 - Page 26