These informational videos* provide an overview of common Sunshine Laws topics. The Sunshine Laws Manual covers these topics in greater detail and can help answer additional questions. The content in these videos is for informational purposes only; it is not legal advice or legal authority.
- Overview of the Public Records Act: This video provides an overview of the important definitions in the Public Records Act, the rights of requesters, and the obligations of public offices.
- Making a Public Records Request: Requesters have many rights under the Public Records Act, but the law also imposes obligations on requesters when making a request. This video details those rights and obligations and offers tips for citizens who make public-records requests.
- Responding to a Public-Records Request: Public offices play an important role in ensuring transparent and open government. This video reviews the obligations of public offices in responding to requests, including tips for following up efficiently and effectively.
- Law Enforcement Records: This video looks at exemptions and issues that are common with law enforcement records.
- Litigation and Remedies Under the Public Records Act: Known as a “self-help” law, the Public Records Act can be enforced by any person who believes a public office has violated the act. This video details what litigation against a public office involves and the remedies available.
- An Overview of the Open Meetings Act: Ohio’s Open Meetings Act mandates that public bodies conduct official business in meetings open to the public. This overview of the act addresses important definitions and the obligations that the act imposes on public bodies.
- The Open Meetings Act and Executive Session: This video explores executive session, the only time that a public body can meet privately.
*Please note that viewing these informational videos DOES NOT satisfy an elected official’s three-hour training requirement under Ohio Revised Code sections 149.43(E)(1) and 109.43(B). For more information on Sunshine Laws Certification Training, please visit the Trainings page.