Bill > SB255

This bill establishes two new grant programs within the Ohio Housing Finance Agency to help homeowners with financial assistance: the Save the Dream Ohio program for mortgage payments and the Save the Dream Ohio Utility Assistance Plus program for utility costs. The bill defines a "homeowner" broadly to include individuals with legal title to owner-occupied housing in Ohio, including those with land installment contracts. The bill allows grants for a wide range of utilities, including natural gas, electricity, water, sewer, trash removal, internet service, property taxes, and various insurance types. To be eligible, homeowners must have an adjusted gross income not exceeding $75,000 and be 65 years or older, disabled, or a caretaker of a disabled individual. Applicants can receive multiple grants, but are limited to a total of $3,000 in grants per calendar year. The Ohio Housing Finance Agency will administer these programs using up to $10 million and will develop rules for application processes and determining disability status. These grant programs are not subject to the agency's standard income limits, providing additional flexibility for assistance.

Budget and Finance

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb255