The bill amends sections 317.22 and 4735.141 of the Revised Code and enacts section 317.43 to enhance deed and title fraud prevention measures in Ohio. Key provisions include a new requirement for individuals presenting a conveyance to the county recorder to provide photo identification, with exceptions for licensed real estate agents and brokers. Additionally, the bill establishes a property protection program that allows county auditors to notify property owners when a deed for their registered property is presented for transfer. This program includes guidelines for acceptable evidence of residence and mandates that property owners provide identification and proof of residence when registering their property.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that real estate licensees complete at least one hour of continuing education focused on deed and title fraud prevention as part of their ongoing education requirements. This is in addition to existing requirements for continuing education on various real estate topics. The bill also includes provisions for the automatic suspension of licenses for non-compliance with education requirements and outlines the process for reactivation of licenses. Existing sections 317.22 and 4735.141 are repealed, and the amendments take effect six months after the bill's effective date.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 317.22, 4735.141