(The Center Square) – Ohio landlords who allow pets could catch a tax break after lawmakers introduced legislation they say would help meet the state’s housing issues.

Reps. Sharon Ray, R-Wadsworth, and Juanita Brent, D-Cleveland, want the Pet Friendly Rental Act to ease the housing crisis by offering tax breaks to landlords if they don’t restrict pets.

“This legislation is in response to the growing and complex housing crisis throughout our state,” Ray said. “Every day, Ohio pet owners are being forced to make the heartbreaking decision to surrender their beloved family members because of the lack of pet-friendly housing options, especially affordable options.”

The bill would create a $750 per unit tax credit of up to $7,500 per taxpayer if landlords do not restrict pets by breed or size or impose nonrefundable fees or higher rents related to pets.

Landlords could still have pet-free units.

“With the exponential rise of residential renting vs. owning, it is vital Ohioans have access to keeping their pets,” Brent said. “The Pet Friendly Rental Act is a commonsense bill that makes sure anyone with a companion animal can find a home.”

The Ohio Senate also is taking steps to address affordable housing concerns by creating the Senate Select Committee on Housing, chaired by Sen. Michele Reynolds, R-Canal Winchester.

“Our goal is to understand how Ohio can encourage the American dream of homeownership, which is one of the best ways to build wealth in America,” Reynolds said. “I am excited to listen and learn from more Ohioans across the state to uncover the challenges they face in their communities.”