Leader Russo Calls Failure to Veto HB 315 Provision Charging for Police Body Cam Footage a Risk to Full Public Accountability

COLUMBUS – Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) today condemned the failure of Governor Mike DeWine to line-item veto a provision hidden within House Bill 315 that would allow police departments to charge up to $75 per hour for video records including body cam, dash cam, and jail security footage in response to public records requests. 

“I have nothing but respect for the important work our dedicated police men and women do and the risks they take to keep our communities safe. But, by not vetoing this provision, the governor is enabling some law enforcement departments to charge the public hefty fees in an attempt to avoid the high standards of transparency and accountability the public deserves,” said Leader Russo. “Public records belong to the public and access is critical for trust in our communities. The governor said he is willing to work with the General Assembly when ‘unforeseen consequences’ of this provision negatively impact residents, grassroots organizations, and families stuck with unfair financial burdens in the search of critical transparency. I will hold him to that promise.” 

This provision was passed amidst the chaos of the lame duck legislative process in the middle of the night with no public hearings and threatens to undermine transparency and accountability in law enforcement. When it becomes law, it will allow police departments to charge up to $75 per hour for individual video release, with a $750 cap on any request. While not mandatory, the measure would make it harder for grassroots organizations and local residents to access vital information about police conduct.