COLUMBUS, Ohio — State Representatives Adam Bird (R-New Richmond) and Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) have introduced legislation that would prohibit certain local elected officials from entering into nondisclosure agreements related to their official duties.
The bill, announced Wednesday, February 11, 2026, would bar village mayors, county commissioners, township trustees, and members of village councils from knowingly signing nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) connected to their roles in office.
Under the proposed legislation, a nondisclosure agreement is defined as any contract or provision that prevents an elected official from disclosing, discussing, describing, or commenting on matters related to their official responsibilities.
“I believe strongly in a transparent government,” said Rep. Bird. “This bill underscores the importance of elected officials being open and honest with the people and community they are elected to serve.”
Rep. Stewart said the use of NDAs by elected officials runs counter to Ohio’s open meetings and public records laws.
“In 11 years as a local elected official — dealing with scores of major development projects — I never signed an NDA, and I never would,” Stewart said. “Secrecy breeds distrust amongst the taxpayers, which is detrimental to economic development efforts.”
If passed, the legislation would subject violators to a civil fine of up to $1,000. The Ohio Attorney General would have authority to bring action to collect the fine.
The bill is expected to receive a number designation in the coming days as it moves through the legislative process.
