Ohio lawmakers seek to end third-party tax lien sales on homes and farmland by year-end to protect homeowners from fees and foreclosures.

Ohio lawmakers are advancing House Bill 493 to end third-party tax lien sales on agricultural and owner-occupied properties by year-end, citing financial strain on homeowners from high fees and foreclosure risks. Co-sponsored by Reps. David Thomas and Dan Troy, the bill aims to sunset the practice while allowing lien sales for commercial properties. Supporters argue it protects vulnerable residents and promotes payment plans, while opponents, including county treasurers, warn it could reduce revenue for schools and services, noting lien sales have generated millions in collected taxes and encouraged timely payments, especially from absentee landlords.