The Ohio Property Protection Act aims to amend existing laws regarding the acquisition of certain real properties by governments, businesses, and individuals, specifically focusing on "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 introducing new definitions and responsibilities for county auditors in processing these transactions. Additionally, it establishes restrictions on foreign adversaries and their affiliates from acquiring protected property, with exceptions for inheritance, and mandates that any suspected violations be referred to the county sheriff for investigation.

Significant changes include a requirement for individuals or entities acquiring protected property to divest all rights within two years and restrictions on the use of agricultural land during the pending sale. The bill also creates a registry of individuals and entities considered threats to agricultural production and critical infrastructure, which will be updated biannually. Responsibilities for enforcement are assigned to county auditors, sheriffs, and prosecutors, emphasizing the state's commitment to protecting its agricultural resources and infrastructure. Existing sections of the Revised Code related to property management will be repealed to implement these new provisions.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 319.202, 5301.256, 5323.02