Ohio to streamline public records complaint process
According to a recent Columbus Dispatch article, Ohio’s public records appeals process will soon become quicker, cheaper and easier. Beginning September 28, “the Ohio Court of Claims will begin accepting complaints on the refusal to release records by government at all levels, from townships to the state.” After the complaint is initiated with a $25 filing fee, mediators will attempt to resolve the dispute. If no agreement is reached, a special master will issue a ruling within seven days. This new effort is expected to alleviate congested public records complaint programs that are currently overseen by the state’s attorney general and auditor offices.
