COLUMBUS, Ohio - Two Republican Ohio Representatives have introduced legislation that aims to modernize and strengthen the state's tax appeal framework.

Representatives David Thomas and Gary Click introduced House Bill 613, which aims to deliver clearer timelines, increased transparency and fairer procedures for taxpayers seeking reassessments or refunds.

If passed, the legislation would update multiple sections of the Ohio Revised Code and reform processes with the Department of Taxation and Board of Tax Appeals.

These updates include a 180-day hearing deadline with limited exceptions, a 30-day taxpayer review period for proposed financial determinations and a halt to interest accrual after one year of unresolved reassessment petitions.

Additionally, the legislation would allow settlement conferences to speed up dispute resolution and create a new appeals pathway to allow taxpayers to appeal directly to the Board of Tax Appeals if the Department of Taxation does not act within one year.

Furthermore, the legislation would require the Board of Tax Appeals to issue decisions within one year and strengthen the Problem Resolution Officer program with staffing requirements, a public directory and expanded reporting metrics.

The bill is currently awaiting a committee assignment.