Reps. Jarrells, Odioso Introduce Grand Jury Privacy and Protection Act to Protect Juror Confidentiality and Strengthen Ohio's Justice System

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Mike Odioso (R-Cincinnati) introduced the Grand Jury Privacy and Protection Act, bipartisan legislation designed to safeguard the identities of Ohioans serving on grand juries and uphold the integrity of the judicial process. 

The legislation responds to the Ohio Supreme Court’s 2024 decision in State ex rel. Culgan v. Jefferson County Clerk of Courts, which ruled that grand juror names are public records subject to disclosure—raising concerns about juror safety, privacy, and independence.

“Grand jurors should be able to serve their communities without fear of retaliation or intimidation,” said Rep. Jarrells. “This bill restores long-standing protections and ensures that our justice system remains fair, secure, and trusted.”

“There are a variety of reasons for this secrecy; One is to ensure the safety of both witnesses and the grand jury members,” said Rep. Odioso. “The protection of secrecy allows participants to be candid while shielding jurors from potential intimidation, pressure, or harassment from individuals under investigation or their associates.”

The Grand Jury Privacy and Protection Act amends Ohio’s Public Records Law to exempt the names of grand jurors and the signatures of grand-jury forepersons from disclosure, reaffirming the principle of grand jury secrecy while balancing transparency and public trust.

The legislation was introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives and is currently awaiting committee assignment.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Jarrells introducing the Grand Jury Privacy and Protection Act with Rep. Odioso is attached to this release. Courtesy: Rep. Jarrells’s office.