Rep. Odioso and Rep. Lett Pass House Bill 585 With Bipartisan Support; Disability Housing Modernization

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Mike Odioso (R-Green Twp) and State Rep. Crystal Lett (D-Columbus) today announced the passage of House Bill 585, legislation that modernizes Ohio’s approach to housing and community development opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. 

HB 585 amends Section 5123.351 of the Ohio Revised Code to clarify and strengthen the authority of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities to adopt rules governing the use of community capital assistance funds. These funds help support the improvement of housing and community-based resources that enable individuals with developmental disabilities to live more independently and fully participate in their communities. 

The legislation provides greater flexibility and administrative clarity in the use of these funds, helping ensure that housing and infrastructure investments can better meet the needs of Ohioans with developmental disabilities. 

“House Bill 585 is designed to help grow the supply of affordable housing for the entire I/DD community,” said Rep. Odioso. 

"Every Ohioan deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and connection to their community. House Bill 585 modernizes our approach to housing for people with developmental disabilities by expanding options and centering the choices of individuals. As a mother of a child with developmental disabilities, I know how desperately families need more options when it comes to housing and to have confidence that their loved ones will have the opportunity to live in their own community,” said Rep. Lett.  

House Bill 585 reflects a bipartisan commitment to expanding housing opportunities, strengthening community-based support, and ensuring that Ohio’s developmental disability system has the tools necessary to meet the needs of individuals and families across the state. HB 585 now heads to the Senate.