FHSA-L Archives

From: "Sally Rolls Pavia" <>
Subject: [FHSA] OHIO'S VITAL RECORDS COULD COST "PRETTY PENNY"
Date: Thu, 15 May 2003 17:44:12 -0700

Birth and death certificates are important resources for any
family historian researching the family tree. For those with Ohio ancestors,
the price of obtaining those vital records could get more expensive if a
bill passed by the House is approved by the Senate. The House budget bill
contains a provision that would prevent state and local officials from
offering uncertified copies to the public—more expensive certified copies
would take their place. The state has issued a new fee of $5 per certified
copy, raising the cost per copy to at least $12, since counties can't charge
any less than $7.
Currently, Ohio sells uncertified copies of vital records for
only 5 cents per copy. This cheap fee is great for genealogists collecting
research materials but doesn't cover the state's costs. In 2002, the state
of Ohio spent $200,000 searching for vital-records documents and making
uncertified copies. At 5 cents a copy, the state raked in a mere $3,500. The
proposed elimination of uncertified copies and the $5 state fee will fund
the digitization of vital records and help curtail fraudulent use. Upon
completion of digitization, the public will be able to access digital
records online and at electronic kiosks at local registrars' offices.

Sally Rolls Pavia
Sun City, AZ

List Owner:
"Today is tomorrow's history."
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• [FHSA] OHIO'S VITAL RECORDS COULD COST "PRETTY PENNY" by "Sally Rolls Pavia" <>