For 25 years, the Ohio Coalition for Open Government has fought for open government issues and access to public records in our state. We work to ensure that the state and local governments in Ohio remain governments of the people, by the people, and for the people.
Our Mission
The Ohio Coalition for Open Government (OCOG) is a tax-exempt 501 (c)(3) corporation established by the Ohio News Media Foundation in June 1992. The Coalition is operated for charitable and educational purposes by conducting and supporting activities to benefit those who seek compliance with public access laws. It is also affiliated with a national network of similar state coalitions.
The Coalition serves as a clearinghouse for media and citizen grievances that involve open meetings and open records, and offers guidance to reporters in local government situations. The activities of the Coalition include monitoring government officials for compliance, filing “amicus” briefs in lawsuits, litigation and public education.
“Open government isn’t a Republican issue or a Democratic issue and affects all aspects of the lives of Ohioans.”
What WE DO
Monitor government officials for compliance with open government laws and offering a legal hotline to citizens.
Audit governments so Ohio citizens know how responsive their governments are to records requests.
Maintain a database and scorecard of open government cases decided by the Ohio Supreme Court.
Publish the Open Government Report twice a year, keeping Ohioans up-to-date on open government news in their state.
File ‘amicus’ briefs in lawsuits over violations of our state’s sunshine laws and the release of public records.
Present an annual Champion of Open Government award to Ohio citizens who have made a difference.