Craig, DeMora Respond to Final Report by Joint Committee on Property Tax Review and Reform

Today, state Senators Hearcel F. Craig (D-Columbus) and Bill DeMora (D-Columbus) announced their support for some of the recommendations made by the Joint Committee on Property Tax Review and Reform. The report recommended several legislative solutions, including raising the homestead exemption and considering the authorization of a property tax circuit breaker as proposed in Senate Bill 271, jointly sponsored by Senator Craig.

“This report confirms that elected officials on both sides know how serious this issue is,” said Craig, who served on the Joint Committee. “My office has been inundated with calls from constituents who can no longer afford to live in their own home. I have sponsored and supported multiple bills to help lessen the burden of property taxes, including legislation to expand the homestead exemption for struggling families across Ohio. It is vital that we address this crisis as soon as possible.”

Senator Craig also serves as the ranking member of the Senate Select Committee on Housing. He intends to reintroduce the circuit breaker bill at the start of the next General Assembly as well as legislation allowing local governments to create residential stability zones to provide property tax relief. The circuit breaker bill will authorize a refundable income tax credit for those whose property taxes exceed 5% of their income. 

“While there is still much work to do to ensure that hard-working Ohioans can still afford to stay in their homes, I am glad that the co-chairs have taken the next step to get results by releasing this report,” said DeMora, who also served on the Joint Committee. “I look forward to working with any member committed to helping the people of Ohio and lowering property tax burdens while maintaining equitable school funding.”

In the next General Assembly, Senator DeMora intends to reintroduce Senate Bill 287, which would authorize a property tax freeze for eligible homeowners such as seniors and veterans, as well as other legislation to increase the homestead exemption.

“Access to safe and affordable housing is a serious concern for the residents of the state of Ohio," said Craig. "It is imperative that the Ohio Legislature focus on creating housing policies and initiatives that support families and children. Housing is a foundational and fundamental human right that must be protected at all costs. I will continue to fight for affordable and quality housing as well as affordable property taxes.”