The bill introduced by Senator Brenner seeks to amend the Revised Code to limit local governments' authority over short-term rental properties while extending local lodging taxes to encompass these rentals. Key provisions include the insertion of definitions for "short-term rental property" and the inclusion of these properties in excise tax regulations, ensuring that both hotels and short-term rentals are treated uniformly under tax laws. The bill also mandates that short-term rental platforms collect lodging taxes, streamlining compliance and revenue generation for local governments. Additionally, it proposes that real estate licenses be issued electronically, enhancing the efficiency of the licensing process.

Moreover, the bill establishes regulations that prohibit local governments from imposing certain restrictions on short-term rentals, such as outright bans or limits on the number of properties an individual can operate. While local governments can still require registration or licensing, any associated fees are capped at twenty dollars per year and must be used solely for enforcement purposes. The legislation aims to clarify the regulatory landscape for short-term rentals, ensuring that local governments have limited authority to impose restrictions while promoting tourism and economic development through the collection of lodging taxes.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 351.01, 351.021, 353.06, 4735.11, 5739.01, 5739.08, 5739.09, 5739.091, 5741.01