COLUMBUS, Ohio — As the countdown to Election Day intensifies, political yard signs are popping up across Ohio. In response to concerns about homeowners associations (HOAs) restricting these displays, State Rep. Brian Lorenz has introduced House Bill 668, a proposal designed to protect residents’ rights to display political signs on their private property.
Key Details:
- Bill Overview: House Bill 668 aims to prevent homeowners associations from imposing restrictions on political yard signs, allowing residents to express their political preferences freely, regardless of their political leanings.
- Broad Application: Lorenz clarified that the legislation applies not only to political signs but also to other types of yard signage, including those for graduations and birthdays. The bill focuses on standard-sized signs, measuring approximately four by two feet, to balance expression with neighborhood aesthetics.
“This is about the First Amendment and ensuring individuals can express their support for candidates and issues,” said Lorenz, R-District 60. “I’ve heard from many constituents who are frustrated by the limitations imposed by their HOAs.”
Support for the bill crosses party lines, with State Rep. Casey Weinstein, D-District 34, voicing his endorsement. “Many constituents have reached out to me frustrated with the restrictions on placing signs,” Weinstein stated. “Removing these limitations is a step toward respecting residents’ rights.”
The proposal follows a historical backdrop of legal challenges, including ACLU lawsuits in 2000 that contested local bans on signage. Gary Daniels from the ACLU expressed support for the current bill, highlighting its potential to enhance free speech rights in HOA settings, although he noted that it won’t alter existing local regulations outside of HOAs.
As House Bill 668 awaits assignment to a committee for further discussion, its proponents hope to see it advance in the lead-up to the critical 2024 elections.
