State Representatives David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) are highlighting legislation they are sponsoring that would provide stronger protections for older Ohioans at risk of losing their homes due to rising property taxes.
The proposal, House Bill 443, known as the Senior Protection from Foreclosure Act, would establish clear, statewide safeguards to prevent counties from enforcing property tax foreclosures on homeowners who are 65 or older, as well as qualifying surviving spouses. The protections would apply to homes valued at under $750,000, provided the homeowner continues to make some form of monthly payment toward any outstanding tax balance.
Supporters of the bill say it would create a consistent process across Ohio. While many counties already offer informal payment plans to help seniors manage increasing property tax bills, House Bill 443 would formalize those practices, allowing older homeowners to enter payment agreements with confidence and without fear of losing homes they may have owned for decades.
Lawmakers say the measure complements broader legislative efforts to address Ohio’s property tax challenges by focusing specifically on foreclosure prevention for seniors who are making good-faith efforts to pay what they owe.
“The legislature took action on the unvoted property tax spikes in the 2025 sessions, but it is still important for us to address reforms on the foreclosure aspect of property taxes,” Rep. Thomas said. “I am not aware of any other states that have this kind of legislation, and this puts Ohio at the top for safeguarding our senior homeowners from foreclosures.”
Although foreclosures involving seniors are considered rare, the bill’s sponsors say concerns raised by residents highlight the need for a clear and uniform statewide standard. Under House Bill 443, seniors who meet the qualifications would be protected from tax foreclosure, while existing tax collection and county treasurer processes would remain intact.
“As the legislature continues to work towards comprehensive solutions to address the property tax crisis in Ohio, this simple bill adds a crucial layer of protection for those honestly working to pay their taxes and keep their home,” Rep. Mathews said.
The sponsors provided testimony on the bill in the House Ways and Means Committee in late 2025. House Bill 443 is currently awaiting further consideration by the committee.
