Central Ohio Today

The Ohio House of Representatives has approved Senate amendments to Substitute House Bill 54, which outlines the state's transportation budget. This bill is designed to allocate funds for Ohio's transportation infrastructure development and maintenance for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. It commits over $11.48 billion to highway construction and maintenance while providing funding for safety improvements on state roadways.

Representative Brian Stewart (R-Ashville), Chair of the House Finance Committee, expressed his satisfaction with the bipartisan support for the bill. "I’m grateful for the strong bipartisan vote in favor of Ohio’s Transportation Budget," he stated. He emphasized that the budget is fiscally responsible and benefits Ohioans by maintaining and enhancing the highway system.

Representative Bernie Willis (R-Springfield), Chair of the House Transportation Committee, also praised the unanimous Senate vote on the bill, saying, “House Bill 54 is still about planes, trains and automobiles.” He highlighted its importance in protecting infrastructure and building future transportation systems in Ohio.

The bill includes several key provisions:

- It removes a requirement for contractors to indemnify railroad companies against damages from contractor negligence.

- It earmarks $3 million per fiscal year for Regional Transportation Planning Organizations.

- It requires BMV customers to present proof of U.S. citizenship during transactions or have previously done so to be offered voter registration.

- It authorizes schools to own or contract vehicles designed for up to 12 passengers for student transportation.

- It mandates ODOT assistance with snow removal, salt application, and mowing under certain conditions.

Substitute House Bill 54 also focuses on economic development by allocating $13.5 million annually to continue the Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership Program, supporting workforce transportation in both rural and urban areas. Funding for Transportation Improvement Districts will increase to $9 million each fiscal year, promoting job creation through economic development initiatives.

To enhance public safety, more than $382 million will be allocated over two years for targeted safety upgrades on roadways. The bill also allocates over $4.1 billion for maintenance operations including roadway replacement and bridge maintenance.

Finally, Substitute House Bill 54 establishes a Division of Advanced Air Mobility within ODOT as part of efforts to continue Ohio's leadership in innovation.

The bill now awaits the Governor's signature.