OH SB321

Creates a new complaint procedure in the Court of Claims to resolve disputes over denials of access to public records under Ohio's Public Records Law, allowing persons to file complaints instead of mandamus actions as an alternative (not both).

Modifies mandamus action requirements to limit attorney's fees awards to situations where public offices fail to respond timely, break promises about timelines, or act in bad faith by withholding records until litigation begins.

Expands the infrastructure records exemption to include risk assessments of infrastructure performed by law enforcement at the request of property owners or managers, and protects such records for 25 years.

Designates the Court of Claims as the sole authority to hear public records denial complaints through special masters, with mediation available before formal proceedings and appeals limited to courts of appeals.

Provides liability protection for nonprofit private higher education institutions regarding breaches of confidentiality arising from disclosure of public records under public records requests or submission of student data to state agencies.