State Reps. Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Twp.) and Jay Edwards (R-Nelsonville) have introduced legislation aimed at addressing squatting in Ohio. The bill, introduced yesterday, seeks to provide homeowners with remedies against squatting and increase penalties for squatters.
LaRe emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “This bill will directly protect Ohio property owners and close loopholes in Ohio law that squatters may currently be able to take advantage of.” Meanwhile, Edwards highlighted the significance of protecting homeowners, saying, “It’s important we protect the rights of our home and property owners.”
The proposed legislation outlines the conditions under which a property owner can request the county sheriff to intervene and remove an individual from their property. Additionally, squatting would be designated as a first-degree misdemeanor, with the penalty escalating to a fourth-degree felony if the squatter causes property damage exceeding $5,000.
The bill is currently awaiting a bill number and House committee assignment as it moves through the legislative process.
