Ohio has introduced a bipartisan bill that would allow the expungement of eviction records under certain circumstances. Under this bill, a judge can expunge an eviction if they feel that the reason is no longer a predicate of future tenant behavior. Landlords will be able to argue against the expungement, but the judge will have the ultimate decision.
This bill is important now more than ever. When someone receives an eviction, it can make it difficult or nearly impossible for them to ever receive stable housing again. COVID-19 has significantly impacted people’s ability to keep up with rent payments, and legislation wants to offer redemption to these renters so that this situation doesn’t drive them to homelessness. In 2020, Ohio issued an eviction moratorium due to the economic impact of the pandemic—one that will now extend to June 2021. Despite this, many landlords are still filing eviction notices.
Even if the eviction wasn’t correctly filed or resulted in a judgment, it still affects a tenant’s future housing ability. An eviction can follow someone for years, and advocates of the Ohio bill believe that people who struggle to make rent should not receive punishment for decades. Though the Ohio House and Senate have approved $465 million in federal funding toward rent and utility assistance, we hope Ohio will continue working to provide second chances that will help those who struggle to find stable housing.
If you’re tired of being denied housing because of your criminal record, it’s time to take a look at our services at Easy Expunctions. You could unknowingly be carrying something on your record that doesn’t need to be there—that’s where we come in. Reach out to us to see if we can help clear your record for a brighter and better future.
