Antonio Applauds Senate Concurrence on Bill Allowing Solar Panels in Condominiums

Today, state Senator Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) announced the Senate's concurrence on Substitute Senate Bill 61, her bill to strengthen a number of consumer protection provisions for condominium owners and make changes to the law regarding solar panel installation in condo properties and planned communities. “Facilitating the adoption of solar power is critical as we begin to make the transition to affordable clean energy across our state and our nation,” Antonio said. “Homeowners must have the right to make smart, environmentally-conscious energy choices on their own property. Today, we take one step closer to ensuring solar energy is accessible for all Ohioans.” The legislation, which is joint-sponsored by Louis W. Blessing, III (R-Cincinnati), will prohibit homeowners associations (HOA) from blocking an individual’s ability to install solar panels, as long as the HOA does not own or maintain the roof or exterior walls where the panels will be placed. Sub. S. B. 61 also includes a number of provisions to boost consumer protections, clean up cumbersome language and increase overall efficiency in communication between associations and their members. Sub. S. B. 61 passed with an overwhelming majority out of both the House and the Senate. The Senate concurred in two House amendments regarding New Community Law and county recorder fees. Sub. S. B. 61 now heads to Governor DeWine for his signature.