North Columbus News

This week, Andrew Huffman, Assistant Vice President of Government Affairs at Ohio REALTORS, addressed the House Public Safety Committee regarding House Bill 1. The proposed legislation aims to limit certain property acquisitions by foreign entities, focusing on agricultural land and areas within 25 miles of military installations and critical infrastructure. This bill is part of a national effort to tackle concerns about foreign land ownership related to national security.

Huffman acknowledged these security concerns but pointed out potential issues in the current draft that could lead to legal complications and confusion over protected land. He also noted that it might prevent legal residents from buying single-family homes.

He highlighted several key concerns:

- HB 1 could become the most restrictive law of its kind in the country. Similar legislation in Florida is already facing constitutional and federal challenges.

- The definitions of “protected property” and “critical infrastructure” are so broad they might cover most properties in Ohio, exceeding the bill’s focus on high-risk areas.

- Without a public map or database, determining whether a property is restricted would be difficult for buyers, sellers, or officials.

- The bill does not exempt legal permanent residents like green card holders from purchasing homes—a restriction avoided by other states with similar laws.

- There is no mechanism to notify buyers about these restrictions before transactions occur. Adding notice language to Ohio’s Consumer Guide to Agency could help resolve this.

Ohio REALTORS suggested Indiana's recent legislation as a more balanced approach addressing national security without creating legal uncertainty.

House Bill 1 is still under review by the committee. Ohio REALTORS will continue collaborating with lawmakers for policies that protect national interests while respecting lawful homebuyers' rights and real estate operations.