Key Update on Digital Communications
The new edition includes a directive in its records management section: “Avoid using platforms or applications that automatically delete records.” Yost stated, “Self-destructing messages are for movie characters, not public officials. Using disappearing messages will only self-destruct your career and your credibility.”
Ohio law defines public records by content, not platform, so auto-deleting messages risks violating the Public Records Act by preventing review or retention.
Context from Recent Case
Yost references Ohio v. Wade Steen, et al., where State Teachers Retirement System members secretly discussed a $65 billion investment outside public channels. A February ruling found they violated fiduciary duties and barred them from future board service, highlighting secrecy’s damage to public trust.
Resources and Observance
The manual guides citizens and officials on rights and duties; free Sunshine Laws training is available from Yost’s office and the Ohio Auditor of State, required once per elected term. Sunshine Week honors James Madison’s March 16 birthday and promotes open government since 2005.
The searchable online version is at ohioattorneygeneral.gov; printed copies are available via Sunshine@Ohioago.gov.
