In this episode of the Legal Ledger Sidebar, host Scott Gerfen speaks with OSBA Chief Legal Counsel Sara Clark and Senior Deputy Director of Legal Services Jennifer Hardin to tackle the ethics laws and nepotism rules that impact school board members. We explore:
- What Ohio’s ethics laws say about hiring family members.
- Whether it’s legal to hire your child, spouse, or domestic partner.
- Special restrictions for hiring minor children.
- Who qualifies as a “family member” or “domestic partner.”
- What actions school officials must avoid to stay compliant.
- Criminal penalties (yes, even felonies!) for violations.
Whether you’re on the board or helping with hiring, this episode gives you the clarity and compliance tips you need for ethical employment decisions.
If you have any questions, please reach out to the OSBA Legal Hotline at 855-OSBA-LAW.
Posted by Sara C. Clark on 5/19/2025