Rep. Brewer Introduces Bipartisan, Pro-Consumer Parking Legislation

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Darnell T. Brewer (D-Cleveland) yesterday introduced bipartisan legislation to establish statewide standards for civil parking ticket late fees. Current state law does not set a maximum late fee, specify a minimum grace period, or restrict administrative and collection charges. As a result, municipalities can impose penalties that exceed the original fine, often in a short period of time. Penalties can add up quickly and vary across jurisdictions, disproportionately impacting low-income residents, seniors, and working families.

“The goal of this bill is clear, parking enforcement should encourage compliance and safety, without creating additional financial hardship for Ohioans. I believe this is a bipartisan issue rooted in fairness, transparency, and responsible governance,” said Rep. Brewer.

This bill does not eliminate parking enforcement or restrict municipal authority to regulate parking. Instead, it establishes sensible consumer protection by:

• Extending the minimum grace period from 15 to 30 days;
• Capping total late fees per ticket;
• Limiting excessive administrative and collection fees; and
• Creating uniform statewide standards while preserving local enforcement.

This legislation now awaits committee assignment.