Legislation currently in committee at the state house may offer older Ohioans some safeguards against foreclosure. 

House Bill 443, also known as the Senior Protection from Foreclosure Act, would establish statewide protections that would prevent counties from enforcing property-tax foreclosure on homeowners if the occupant is 65-years-old or older, or if their spouse is.

Homes valued at under $750,000 would fall under the proposed bill's protections. 

Homeowners would still be required to make some type of monthly payment toward any outstanding tax balances, but they would not be foreclosed upon.

Representatives David Thomas and Adam Mathews, sponsors of the bill, said in a Tuesday statement that though foreclosure on senior citizens is rare, they are hoping to establish a clear standard in light of Ohioans recent property tax concerns.

"As the legislature continues to work towards comprehensive solutions to address the property tax crisis in Ohio, this simple bill adds a crucial layer of protection for those honestly working to pay their taxes and keep their home," Mathews said in the statement.

The lawmakers added that the bill will provide a framework for keeping seniors housed while preserving existing tax-collection and treasurer processes.