REALTORS® Legislative Agenda

Governmental Affairs Committee Report

Rick Benjamin, Chair

Just when I thought Governmental Affairs would be an easy job, Governor Taft proposed taxing numerous real estate related fees and commissions. In an instant, we went from easy to busy.

Thanks to all who emailed, wrote letters and influenced our legislators to kill the governor’s tax proposals! I even received a letter from Jon Peterson, my state representative supporting our REALTORS®’ positions. Great job and many thanks to all who helped.

There are other areas of interest as well. They include growth issues and land use issues in Pickerington, Big Darby land use issues and governmental issues in Hilliard.

Central Ohio Moratoriums

Do Not Call Legislation - state and national

State
Ohio Budget (tax on real estate services)
Agency Disclosure - Proposed legislation

National
Keeping Banks out of Real Estate
Homeownership Tax Credit
American Dream Downpayment Fund

REALTORS® on our committee have been involved and we continue to monitor or assist as we can. Our Larry Metzger is well respected by legislators and town officials and has represented the CBR in a straight forward, factual manner.

As local elections come into focus, Governmental Affairs will be assisting candidates and issues favorable to our industry. We must be vigilant regarding items like proposed increases in transfer fees, income taxes on real estate related services and commissions, reductions in property tax roll backs affecting commercial and residential property.

If any of you know other areas where we can help, let us know.

On these pages, you’ll find a synopsis of several current issues and the status as of press date. Be sure to read the information on the state’s proposed and the national’s approved “Do Not Call” telemarketing legislation on page 17.

Our committee is involved and if you have interest, your help is welcome. Join us for our next meeting. We’ll keep it concise and informative.