Currently, Ohio law requires school districts to first offer school property to community schools. If no community school accepts the offer, the district may then either offer the property at a public auction or sell the property to a list of entities, including any political subdivision, park districts, and wholly or partially tax-supported universities and colleges. House Bill 375 adds non-profit institutions of higher education to the list.

“This bill allows our school districts more flexibility in disposing of surplus property,” said Representative Jim Butler (R- Oakwood), who sponsored the legislation. “In an era of tight budgets and increasing collaboration between entities serving the public good, I am pleased we could give our schools more options.”