Ohio House Bill 444, affecting Ohio's township cemeteries, was signed into law January 9, 2021 and will take effect April 9, 2021.
State Representative, Cindy Abrams, a primary co-sponsor of HB 444 published an announcement of the passage of the bill on January 12, 2021. Brian Baldridge is the other primary co-sponsor of this bill.
A link to the legislative summary of HB 444.:
"Under current law, Ohio’s 1,308 townships must receive legislative permission from the Ohio General Assembly in order to enact any new abilities to carry out their duties to the public. H.B. 444 authorizes Ohio’s townships to execute decisions individually to help improve local government services and operations."
Provisions of the bill include:
"Putting minimum standards in place regarding the transfer of cemeteries
Allowing for another source of revenue for townships through Industrial Development Bonds
Addressing public safety concerns by making emergency responses more efficient
Providing flexibility to create Special Improvement Districts to spur economic growth
Establishing liability protections for county treasurers, municipal treasurers, and township fiscal officers for loss of funds in certain circumstances
Clarifying property tax law in regard to liens"
Proponent testimonies are included and available for download.
