Yes, it is true. House Bill 95, which went into effect 1 July 2003, eliminated uncertified copies of vital records from the state and local vital statistics offices.

There was an effort by genealogists across the state, including the Ohio Genealogical Society, to get the language removed from the bill (it was the state budget bill), but we were not successful.

If I could get on the soapbox for just a moment, this type of legislation -- limiting or even eliminating access to vital records and other types of records -- is going on all across the country. PLEASE -- no matter where you live -- get involved with your local and state genealogical societies and become aware of what is going on in your state. The only hope that genealogy has of keeping records open is if genealogists contact their legislators and be active on this front.

Ok, end of soap box. Thanks.