The bill proposes the enactment of section 2709.01 of the Revised Code, which mandates that courts in Ohio implement an electronic notification system to remind defendants of their scheduled court appearances in criminal and traffic cases. The administrative director of the supreme court is tasked with developing and making available a court reminder program that allows clerks of courts to send text or email notifications to defendants. The program aims to reduce costs associated with missed court appearances, improve court efficiency, and decrease the number of defendants confined in jail due to failure to appear. The program will provide multiple reminders before court dates, ensure compliance with consent laws, and allow defendants to choose their preferred language for notifications.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the courts, including establishing procedures for confirming contact information, documenting reminder occurrences, and identifying defendants without access to electronic communication. Courts must also collect and transmit data regarding the effectiveness of the reminder program to the administrative director of the supreme court. The bill includes an appropriation of $6 million for the implementation of the automated court appearance reminder program for fiscal year 2025 and an additional $1 million for fiscal year 2026.