Brenner Announces Bill Supporting Families of Fallen First Responders Signed by Governor

COLUMBUS—State Senator Andrew Brenner (R-Powell) announced that Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 17 earlier this month, which allows an increased homestead exemption for spouses of fallen first responders. “I am very pleased that House Bill 17 was signed by the governor and want to thank him and Representative Ginter for getting this bill to the finish line," Brenner said. "Ohio’s first responders risk their lives every day, running towards danger, to protect us from harm. This bill, while simple in nature, provides another avenue of support for those families who have lost their loved ones in the line of duty.” House Bill 17 will exempt $50,000 of a home’s appraised value from property taxes or manufactured home taxes for the surviving spouse of a peace officer, firefighter, or paramedic who dies in the line of duty or as a result of an injury or illness sustained in the line of duty. The $50,000 homestead exemption doubles the exemption allowable under current law. Senator Brenner originally introduced this legislation (H.B. 513, 132nd GA) while serving in the Ohio House with Representative Ginter. During this current General Assembly, Brenner sponsored the companion bill (S.B. 35) in the Senate. He worked closely with former Franklin County Auditor Clarence Mingo and current Delaware County Auditor George Kaitsa on the legislation. The bill will become law 90 days after the governor's signature. For more information about House Bill 17, click here.