The bill establishes legal representation for indigent defendants facing eviction by creating an Eviction Defense Fund, which will be financed through appropriations from the General Assembly and donations to the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation. This foundation will administer the fund to provide legal representation for eligible individuals, specifically those with children living in a dwelling and whose income does not exceed 250% of the federal poverty line. The bill outlines the application process for legal aid societies seeking financial assistance and sets criteria for eligibility. It also modifies existing provisions related to the foundation, including rules for fund administration and annual reporting requirements, while ensuring confidentiality in all reporting.

Additionally, the bill mandates that landlords include a notice in eviction notices informing tenants of their potential right to legal representation and provides resources for legal aid based on income. It also modifies the process for issuing summons in eviction actions, requiring specific language to inform defendants of their rights and the availability of legal assistance. The bill appropriates $750,000 from the General Revenue Fund to support the Eviction Defense Fund and includes provisions for the reappropriation of unspent funds for the same purpose in the following fiscal year. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to legal support for tenants at risk of eviction and improve their understanding of their rights.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 120.521, 120.53, 1923.06, 1923.08, 3735.41, 5321.17