The Ohio House of Representatives has approved the conference committee report for Am. Sub. House Bill 96, marking a significant step in the state’s budget planning. Speaker of the Ohio House, Matt Huffman, and State Representative Brian Stewart announced the approval, highlighting its focus on property tax relief and a flat income tax rate.
Speaker Huffman emphasized the importance of listening to constituents: “It’s vitally important that as elected officials, members of the state legislature listen to the voices of Ohioans and address their priorities – and this budget delivers on that promise.” He further stated that by providing record tax relief and investing in education, they are building a stronger future for Ohio.
Representative Stewart also commented on the impact of the budget: “This budget provides historic income tax relief, and meaningful, broad-based property tax relief for every Ohioan.” He added that it signals to job creators and families across America that Ohio is welcoming them to achieve their dreams.
The bill includes measures for property tax reform by utilizing school district cash carryovers for taxpayer relief. It introduces structural changes aimed at transparency and control over local property taxes. Additionally, residential homeowners may receive up to a 2.5% owner-occupancy tax credit under certain conditions.
A shift towards a flat income tax is also part of the plan. The top bracket will decrease from 3.5% to 3.125% in 2025 and down to 2.75% in 2026 onwards.
Education funding sees an increase with nearly $700 million more allocated over two years compared to fiscal year 2025 levels. This aims to prioritize student well-being across districts.
House Bill 96 invests in community revitalization through various initiatives including Brownfield Remediation funding and incentives for single-family home construction. A provision uses unclaimed funds for cultural activities like sports facilities grants, with notable projects such as Browns Brook Park receiving substantial support.
Support for families is addressed through programs like Child Care Choice with $100 million earmarked for assistance with child care costs. Additional investments are made into programs supporting pregnant women and young children with developmental challenges.
School choice continues as a priority with increased awards for scholarships targeting special needs students while expanding options like education savings accounts.
Public safety receives attention with funds directed towards law enforcement training and emergency response equipment improvements totaling over $100 million across several initiatives.
Higher education benefits from increased scholarship opportunities such as Governor’s Merit Scholarship along with an annual rise in State Share of Instruction funding aimed at reducing student costs at state institutions.
Lastly, healthcare transparency efforts target Medicaid program integrity through enhanced reporting requirements intended to reduce fraud or wasteful spending practices within state-managed healthcare services.
House Bill 96 now awaits consideration by Governor Mike DeWine.
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