Representatives David Thomas and Adam Mathews Highlight Senior Protection from Foreclosure Act

Representative David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Representative Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) today highlighted legislation they are championing - House Bill 443, The Senior Protection from Foreclosure Act - a measure designed to give older Ohioans stronger safeguards against losing their homes due to property tax pressures.

House Bill 443 establishes clear, statewide protections that prevent counties from enforcing property-tax foreclosure on homeowners when the occupant is age 65 or older, or a qualifying surviving spouse. The bill applies to homes valued under $750,000 while ensuring that the homeowner still makes some type of monthly payment toward any outstanding tax balance.

Across Ohio, many counties already use informal payment-plan practices to help seniors facing rising property taxes. House Bill 443 locks in a reliable, uniform process so older homeowners can enter payment agreements with confidence and without the fear of losing lifelong homes. As the legislature continues broader work to address the state's property-tax challenges, this bill offers a focused, practical layer of protection for those making genuine efforts to pay their taxes.

"The legislature took action on the unvoted property tax spikes in the 2025 sessions, but it is still important for us to address reforms on the foreclosure aspect of property taxes," said Rep. Thomas. "I am not aware of any other states that have this kind of legislation, and this puts Ohio at the top for safeguarding our senior homeowners from foreclosures."

While foreclosure on seniors is extremely rare, the concerns raised by Ohioans underscore the need for a clear standard. House Bill 443 ensures Ohio is explicit: seniors who meet the qualifications will not lose their homes due to tax foreclosure, while still preserving all existing tax-collection and treasurer processes.

"As the legislature continues to work towards comprehensive solutions to address the property tax crisis in Ohio, this simple bill adds a crucial layer of protection for those honestly working to pay their taxes and keep their home," said Rep. Mathews.

House Bill 443 provides a simple, transparent framework that keeps seniors in their homes, maintains contributions to the tax base, and supports ongoing statewide property-tax reform.

The sponsors provided testimony in the House Ways and Means Committee in late 2025, and the bill is currently awaiting further consideration by the committee.