Technology can be a wonderful thing. It also can be horrifying, particularly when the law does not keep up with innovations. Ohio lawmakers have addressed one of those shortfalls by passing Senate Bill 100, which makes it a crime to put or install a tracking device on someone else’s property without their consent.

Seems like common sense, doesn’t it? But until the measure was signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine, the use of, for example, an Apple AirTag to aid in stalking a victim was not a crime.

According to a report by the Ohio Capital Journal, a stalking case in Akron turned deadly when an ex-boyfriend used an AirTag to track her down. A private investigator hired by the victim found the AirTag, but by then it was too late.

When SB 100 goes into effect in March, it will make use of a tracking device without someone’s consent a first-degree misdemeanor, which could be raised to a fourth-degree felony if stalking is a pattern or there is a history of violence by the perpetrator. Lawmakers must consider how many other malicious uses of otherwise helpful technology have been flying under the radar. Sadly, the possibilities are likely more than they will be able to stay on top of. But in this case, at least, they are to be commended for trying.