The bill amends section 1923.06 and enacts section 1923.111 of the Revised Code to establish provisions for the suppression of eviction records under certain circumstances. Key changes include the requirement that summons issued for eviction actions must contain specific language informing defendants of their rights, including the right to seek legal assistance and the implications of continuing to deposit rent. Additionally, the summons must notify defendants that any records associated with the eviction action are suppressed and not publicly accessible until a court order is issued granting possession to the plaintiff. If possession is granted, the records may remain private if both parties agree to suppress them.

Section 1923.111 introduces the concept of a "suppressed court record," which limits access to the record to judges, court staff, parties involved, and authorized personnel. Upon the commencement of an eviction action, the court is required to classify the record as suppressed. If the plaintiff prevails, the record will be made public unless both parties agree to keep it suppressed. The bill also stipulates that records remain suppressed if the action is dismissed or if judgment is granted for the defendant. Furthermore, while the names of the parties in a suppressed record can be used for administrative purposes, they cannot be published online. The existing section 1923.06 is repealed as part of this legislative update.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1923.06