Bill > HB626

This bill requires Ohio courts to develop and implement an electronic notification program for criminal and traffic court defendants. The program will send text messages or emails to remind defendants of their upcoming court appearances, with three notifications before each hearing (including one the day before) and one follow-up message if a hearing is missed. The notifications must be in plain language, include court details and potential consequences for non-appearance, and allow defendants to choose their preferred language. Courts must automatically enroll defendants who provide contact information, while giving them the option to opt-out, and must collect detailed data about the program's implementation and effectiveness. The program aims to reduce court costs, improve court efficiency, decrease unnecessary jail admissions, and help defendants avoid missing court dates. The bill includes an appropriation of $6 million for fiscal year 2026 and $1 million for fiscal year 2027 to support the implementation of this automated court appearance reminder system. Courts will be required to establish procedures for confirming contact information, document reminder deliveries, identify defendants without technological access, and partner with local agencies to collect contact information.

Justice

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb626