Rep. Humphrey's Bill Mandating Recordings of Parole Board Hearings Unanimously Passes Ohio House

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Latyna M. Humphrey (D-Columbus) today celebrated the passage of House Bill (HB) 31 by a 90-0 vote. This bipartisan legislation enhances transparency and accountability within Ohio’s parole process.

“HB 31 corrects an issue that has impacted our criminal justice system for too long, the life changing decisions that occur during a parole board hearing needed to be accessible for the parties involved, especially the victims,” said Rep Humphrey. “A fair and transparent parole process fosters trust in our justice system and takes one more step closer to my commitment of criminal justice reform, and this will not be the last.”

House Bill 31 addresses longstanding concerns over the lack of official records for parole hearings—proceedings that often determine whether an individual may reenter society or must continue serving their sentence. Under current law, Ohio’s Parole Board is not required to record or transcribe its hearings, producing only digest of the proceedings. In contrast, court proceedings and other administrative actions are fully documented, creating an inconsistency in how critical decisions are recorded within the state’s justice system.

Key provisions of HB 31 include:

• Mandatory Electronic Recordings: All full Parole Board hearings will be electronically recorded and designated as public records under Ohio’s Public Records Law;
• Enhanced Access to Records: Victims, individuals subject to the hearing, their attorneys, and prosecuting attorneys will have the right to request and obtain these recordings;
• Privacy Protections: The bill maintains protections for victim information, ensuring personal privacy while promoting transparency; and
• Institutional Hearings Included: Institutional Parole Board Release Hearings and Parole Revocation Hearings will also be recorded. While not classified as public records, the recordings will be accessible to involved parties in each case.

The bill now advances to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Humphrey speaking on the floor is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.