Yost’s 2026 Sunshine Laws Manual Warns Public Officials Against Using Disappearing Message Apps

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has released the 2026 edition of the Ohio Sunshine Laws manual, warning public officials not to use messaging apps that automatically delete records when conducting public business.

The annual manual, often called the “Yellow Book,” is published during Sunshine Week, which runs March 15 through 21 this year. It serves as a guide to Ohio’s Public Records and Open Meetings laws and is intended to help both citizens and public officials understand their rights and responsibilities.

A new practical pointer included in this year’s edition advises officials to avoid platforms or applications that automatically delete records. The manual says apps used to send texts, images or videos that disappear after a set amount of time or after being viewed should not be used for public business. Examples mentioned include Signal, WhatsApp and Snapchat.

Yost used sharp language in emphasizing that point.

“Self-destructing messages are for movie characters, not public officials,” Yost said. “Using disappearing messages will only self-destruct your career and your credibility.”

The manual notes that under Ohio law, whether something is considered a public record depends on its content, not the platform used to send it. It warns that automatically deleting communications before they can be reviewed or retained could violate the Public Records Act.

In the introduction to the new edition, Yost also points to a recent Ohio case involving the State Teachers Retirement System to highlight the importance of transparency. He said the case showed how secrecy in government can undermine public trust and damage public institutions.

Along with publishing the manual, Yost’s Public Records Unit continues to offer free Sunshine Laws training. The Ohio Auditor of State’s Office also provides the training. Ohio law requires public officials, or a designated representative, to complete the training at least once during each elected term. The sessions are also open to the public.

Sunshine Week has been observed nationally since 2005 and is designed to promote the importance of open government.