Public Service Attorneys Committee

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  • 1.  HB695 re: Non-Disclosure Agreements

    Posted 03-13-2026 13:25

    The Ohio Bar has been asked for feedback on HB 695, which prohibits certain local officials from entering into non-disclosure agreements. We understand this to be in response to NDAs related to data center projects. 

    House Bill 695

    You may respond to this thread with feedback or to me directly at mmyers@ohiobar.org.

    Marisa



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    Marisa Myers
    Ohio State Bar Association
    Columbus OH
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  • 2.  RE: HB695 re: Non-Disclosure Agreements

    Posted 03-13-2026 13:49

    I support legislation that promotes greater transparency and public access to information.

     

    Thanks,

     

    Charles

     

     

    The Ohio Bar has been asked for feedback on HB 695, which prohibits certain local officials from entering into non-disclosure agreements. We... -posted to the "Public Service Attorneys Committee" community






  • 3.  RE: HB695 re: Non-Disclosure Agreements

    Posted 03-13-2026 14:31
    I will respectfully not be engaging in discussions of this matter, as it concerns a bill introduced by one of the members of the legislature for whom I work.




    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: HB695 re: Non-Disclosure Agreements

    Posted 03-13-2026 13:54

    Marisa:

     

    While the legislation refers to counties, townships, and villages, is there a reason that cities were excluded?  

     

    Scott A. Liberman | Coolidge Wall Co., L.P.A.
    Attorney at Law
    liberman@coollaw.com
    Telephone:  937-223-8177 Ext. 327
    Direct: 937-449-5778  
    Fax:  937-223-6705
    https://www.coollaw.com
    LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

     

     






  • 5.  RE: HB695 re: Non-Disclosure Agreements

    Posted 03-13-2026 14:49
    Good question Scott. My question is:  in what way(s) does this legislation provide stronger transparency than the Ohio Public Records Act 149.43? 



    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: HB695 re: Non-Disclosure Agreements

    Posted 03-13-2026 15:06

    Scott,

    This question was asked in committee during the first hearing, and the bill sponsor indicated it was to avoid a home rule legal challenge. While that would apply to villages as well, he said that they tend to have fewer resources.

    There was a pretty extensive conversation about the bill at the hearing. If anyone is interested in watching, it's available here. HB695 starts about 20 minutes in. 

    Marisa



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    Marisa Myers
    Ohio State Bar Association
    Columbus OH
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    Original Message