COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio lawmakers have passed H.B. 315, a wide-ranging bill that includes a contentious measure allowing government entities to charge fees for processing public requests for video records from law enforcement agencies and jails. The bill has drawn criticism from transparency advocates, who argue it could undermine public accountability.

Fee Structure Introduced

The legislation allows agencies to charge up to $75 per hour for processing video footage requests, with a cap of $750 per request. These fees would need to be paid upfront before the requested videos are released. Critics suggest that this financial requirement could deter individuals and organizations from accessing important public records.

Dashcam, body camera, and jail surveillance footage are often critical in providing evidence in incidents involving law enforcement actions and conditions in detention facilities. Transparency advocates warn that increased costs could limit access to such information, hindering accountability efforts.

Concerns Over Transparency

The new provision has raised concerns about its impact on government transparency and public oversight. The ability to access video footage has been essential in numerous cases that involve disputes over law enforcement conduct. Critics of the measure argue that the fees could disproportionately affect journalists, advocacy groups, and individuals who rely on such records to hold institutions accountable.

Public records, including video evidence, have played a pivotal role in exposing instances of misconduct, abuse, and other critical issues. By imposing financial barriers, the bill is seen by some as reducing the public’s ability to scrutinize government actions effectively.

Awaiting Governor’s Action

The bill now awaits a decision from Governor Mike DeWine, who has a limited time frame to either sign it into law or veto it. Advocates for open government are urging a veto, expressing concerns about the potential erosion of public trust in government institutions.

Support for the Measure

Supporters of the legislation argue that processing video requests requires substantial time and resources, including redaction of sensitive information. They believe the fees will help law enforcement agencies manage these requests without detracting from their primary duties of maintaining public safety.

Public Backlash

The legislation has sparked significant criticism from various groups, including media organizations, civil rights advocates, and concerned citizens. Many fear that the added costs will discourage efforts to seek justice or investigate potential wrongdoing, particularly in cases where video evidence is crucial.

The outcome of this legislation now hinges on the governor’s decision, which could have lasting implications for transparency and public trust in Ohio.