House Bill 161- Rental Agreements

There was a new House Bill introduced into the Ohio House, HB 161, and assigned to House Commerce & Labor Committee.  HB 161 was sponsored by Rep. Jim Raussen (R) from District #28 (Springdale/Hamilton County).

HB 161 RENTAL AGREEMENTS - To permit a tenant to terminate a residential rental agreement without penalty if the tenant or the tenant's spouse is 62 years of age or older and, for medical reasons, enters a nursing home or other specified care facility.  

Rep. Raussen said his bill aims to protect elderly renters by allowing them to sever rental agreements in certain health-related cases.   The sponsor also said advocates for the elderly brought the issue to his attention.  The panelist of the House Commerce & Labor Committee questioned whether property owners would be hesitant to do business with elderly tenants as a result, the sponsor acknowledged the area of leases is frequently litigated.

As we know, opening the door to the state legislature governing when and why a contract between two people can be severed or terminated, could be devastating to our business and jepordizes all lease agreements and their enforcement.

OREIA is opposed to this legislation and asks you to contact your State Representative and ask them to VOTE NO on HB 161!!!