Express intention to affirm an Ohio Tenants' Bill of Rights

hr427_00_IN

As Introduced

136th
General Assembly

Regular
Session
H. R. No. 427

2025-2026

Representatives
White, E., Cockley

Cosponsors:
Representatives Brownlee, Synenberg

A
R E S O L U T I O N

To
express the intention of the Ohio House of Representatives to affirm
an Ohio Tenants' Bill of Rights that mirrors core protections in
state law.

BE
IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF OHIO:

WHEREAS,
Ohio law protects tenants from unfair treatment and ensures that
their rights as tenants are not vulnerable to unjust actions; and

WHEREAS,
The Ohio House of Representatives finds it necessary to restate the
protections found in the Ohio Revised Code in clear, easily
accessible language affirming the State's commitment to fair housing;
now therefore be it

RESOLVED,
That we, the members of the House of Representatives of the 136th
General Assembly of the State of Ohio, acknowledge and support the
following rights of tenants in the State of Ohio:

The
Right to a Fair Application

Prospective
tenants are to be evaluated only by information directly relevant to
their ability to meet their obligations as tenants, ensuring that
applications are free from intentional discrimination.

The
Right to a Fair Lease

Rental
agreements must clearly define the rights and duties of the landlord
and tenant and must exclude terms that are unconscionable, deceptive,
or otherwise prohibited by law.

The
Right to Freedom from Discrimination and Harassment

Tenants
are supported by the enforcement of federal fair housing laws and
they are protected from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and
invasion of privacy and have the right to the quiet use and enjoyment
of their homes.

The
Right to Habitable Homes

Landlords
must fulfill their legal duty to provide and maintain safe,
habitable, and functional premises, which includes meeting necessary
health and safety standards and responding to repair requests within
a reasonable time frame.

The
Right to Reasonable Rent and Costs

Rent
and other charges or costs must be clearly disclosed, reasonable, and
nonexploitative, and tenants are protected from financial burdens
caused by excessive rent increases or hidden fees.

The
Right to Organize

Tenants
are free to communicate and organize to address housing concerns
without fear of retaliation, including eviction by landlords, owners,
and property managers.

The
Right to Safeguards Against Eviction

Tenants
should be guaranteed a basic level of due process in eviction
proceedings and protected from illegal evictions or removals without
good cause; and be it further

RESOLVED,
That the Clerk of the House of Representatives transmit duly
authenticated copies of this resolution to the news media of Ohio.