Bill to get military out of leases

SPECIAL TO THE VINDICATOR

COLUMBUS — Landlords would be required to let military men and women heading to active duty out of leases without financial penalty, under legislation approved in the Ohio House.

House Bill 64, sponsored by Connie Pillich, a Democrat from southwestern Ohio, passed by a final vote of 98-0 and heads to the Senate for further consideration.

The legislation would cover service members who receive orders to relocate for active duty for 90 days or more. Tenants would have to provide written notice of their need to terminate rental agreements, plus a copy of their official military orders.

Rental agreements then would be terminated about a month later. Landlords would be required to return deposits (provided there are no damages to the premises as stipulated in rental agreements) and any advance rental payments.

Landlords who violate the new law would face potential monetary damages and attorneys fees.