OH HB658

Amends Ohio Revised Code section 2743.75 to require attorney's fees be awarded to an aggrieved person if a court of appeals determines in an appeal by a public office that the public office denied access to public records in violation of the Public Records Law.

Changes the language from "may" to "shall" award attorney's fees when a court of appeals finds a public office denied records access in violation of division (B) of section 149.43 and the appeal was filed with intent to delay compliance or unduly harass the aggrieved person.

Establishes the Court of Claims as the sole and exclusive authority for adjudicating complaints alleging denial of access to public records, with special masters assigned to hear complaints.

Creates a public records fund from filing fees collected by the Court of Claims to assist in paying implementation costs.

Provides expedited appeal procedures with mediation services and strict timelines for responses, special master reports, and court decisions.