The bill amends sections of the Revised Code to enhance the privacy of student information and streamline public records access. It introduces new legal language that defines "directory information" held by public schools as not classified as a public record, thereby protecting students' personal data from unauthorized disclosure. The bill also deletes references to "directory information" in the context of personally identifiable information, reinforcing the requirement for written consent from parents or guardians before such information can be released. This aligns with federal regulations like the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding student privacy.

In addition to student privacy protections, the bill establishes guidelines for public records requests, particularly concerning video records from law enforcement agencies, allowing agencies to charge for preparation costs while ensuring sensitive information is protected. It mandates that public offices provide written explanations for denied requests and prohibits them from requiring requesters to disclose their identity. The bill also introduces provisions for timely transmission of public records, statutory damages for non-compliance, and training for public office employees on their obligations regarding public records. Overall, the legislation aims to balance public access to records with the privacy rights of individuals, particularly in educational and public safety contexts.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 149.381, 149.43, 3319.321
As Reported By House Committee: 149.381, 149.43, 3319.321
As Passed By House: 149.381, 149.43, 3319.321