The Ohio Property Protection Act aims to strengthen regulations regarding the acquisition of certain real properties, particularly those classified as "protected property," which includes agricultural land and properties near military installations or critical infrastructure. The bill requires grantees to submit a statement declaring the property's value and affirming eligibility for tax reductions, while also ensuring that parties involved are not prohibited from acquiring protected property. It introduces a registry to identify foreign adversaries and their affiliates, who are barred from acquiring such properties, and outlines the responsibilities of county auditors in verifying compliance with these new regulations.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that any individual or entity acquiring an interest in protected property must divest all rights within two years and stipulates that protected agricultural land cannot be used for purposes other than agriculture during the pending sale. It establishes a biannual registry of individuals and entities considered threats to agricultural production and critical infrastructure, detailing the enforcement responsibilities of county auditors, sheriffs, and prosecutors. The act emphasizes the state's commitment to protecting its agricultural resources and infrastructure while repealing conflicting sections of the Revised Code.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 319.202, 5301.256, 5323.02