COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has released the updated 2024 edition of the Sunshine Laws Manual, also known as the “Yellow Book.” This manual serves as a resource for Ohioans to better understand their rights and assists public officials in fulfilling their responsibilities under Ohio’s Public Records and Open Meetings laws. The manual has been revised to ensure its accuracy and relevance in light of the evolving legal landscape.
Yost emphasizes the importance of transparency in government, stating that without it, citizens cannot fully participate in their democracy or hold their leaders accountable. The Sunshine Week, which highlights the value of government openness, is observed during the week that includes the birthday of James Madison, a leading advocate for transparency in government.
One significant update in the revised manual is the addition of a new chapter on law enforcement records. This reflects the changes in the law that have taken place in recent years. The new chapter explores exemptions that apply specifically to law enforcement records, as well as issues related to law enforcement officers, crime victims, and witnesses. It also addresses recent changes in the Public Records Act regarding the use of body-cam and dash-cam footage, as well as updates to Marsy’s Law.
In addition to the revisions made to the Sunshine Laws Manual, Yost’s office has also updated and reformatted the Sunshine Laws training offered throughout the state. This training is mandatory for public officials or their designated representatives and can be attended by the general public as well.
For local governments seeking guidance on creating a public-records-request policy, Yost’s office provides a model policy for reference. This resource aims to assist local governments in establishing effective and transparent procedures for responding to public records requests.
The 2024 edition of the Sunshine Laws Manual is designed to be more user-friendly. It includes numerous links and hyperlinks that provide direct access to relevant resources such as the Ohio Revised Code, court rules, the Ohio Court of Claims, and other public offices.
In conclusion, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has released an updated version of the Sunshine Laws Manual, which aims to make Ohio’s Public Records and Open Meetings laws more accessible and comprehensive. The manual features a new chapter on law enforcement records and includes various updates and additional resources to facilitate greater transparency in government operations. By providing citizens with the necessary tools and information, Yost hopes to strengthen accountability and democracy in Ohio.