From the Office of Richard Cordray

In recognition of Sunshine Week, Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray has released the 2009 Ohio Sunshine Laws Manual in partnership with Ohio Auditor of State Mary Taylor. The updated manual, known as the "Yellow Book," is available for viewing, downloading, ordering and even embedding on host Web sites at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov/sunshine.

The Yellow Book details Ohio's open government laws, and it changes from year to year based on new court decisions. Sunshine Week, which highlights the importance of accountable and transparent government, runs from March 15 through March 21.

Any Web site can now host the up-to-date Yellow Book, thanks to a tool that will display the book and automatically update as the law changes.

"Today's online tools and the Internet mean we can put Ohio's open government resources directly into the hands of any citizen and increase the level of accountability through their vigilance," Attorney General Cordray said.

In order to ensure that officials follow open government laws, the Attorney General's Office offers training sessions across the state throughout the year. Find a full schedule of these free sessions at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov/sunshine.

Check www.SpeakOutOhio.gov/sunshine for updates throughout Sunshine Week.