Youngstown Times

State Representative Monica Robb Blasdel has announced the Ohio House of Representatives' approval of the conference committee report for Am. Sub. House Bill 96, also known as the State Operating Budget. The budget outlines funding allocations for state programs and operations over the next two years, aiming to protect freedom, family, and fiscal responsibility. Key components include historic property tax relief, implementation of a flat tax rate, and increased funding for school districts.

"After months of deliberations and an open and transparent budget process in the Ohio House, I was proud to vote in favor of this budget plan for the State of Ohio," stated Robb Blasdel. "This conservative budget ensures that Ohio is poised to remain the best place to live, work, raise a family, and thrive."

The budget responds to calls from residents across Ohio seeking relief from rising property taxes by implementing measures set to provide significant tax reductions starting January 2026. It includes provisions requiring schools with unspent cash exceeding 40% of their general budgets at year-end to redirect funds back into property tax relief.

Additional structural changes aim to increase transparency in local property tax processes while offering direct homeowner relief through options like owner-occupancy tax credits and homestead exemptions.

Ohio's economy is set for further strengthening under this budget with adjustments in state income taxes leading towards a flat tax system. This includes lowering the top bracket from 3.5% to 3.125% in 2025 and down to 2.75% in subsequent years.

Education funding receives a boost with nearly $700 million more allocated over two years than previous levels, continuing support through the Cupp-Patterson model.

House Bill 96 invests further into community revitalization efforts by increasing funds for brownfield remediation and addressing housing shortages via new initiatives targeting single-family home construction.

Supporting families remains a priority with $100 million dedicated to childcare assistance under the Child Care Choice program and increased funding for Help Me Grow services aiding pregnant women and young children facing developmental challenges.

Public safety enhancements are addressed through substantial investments totaling millions across law enforcement training programs, emergency response systems, narcotics intelligence operations, as well as grants assisting small volunteer fire departments.

Workforce readiness is emphasized with investments into higher education scholarships like Governor’s Merit Scholarship and Choose Ohio First Scholarship along with incremental increases supporting state institutions' instructional costs.

House Bill 96 awaits consideration by the Governor following its passage in the legislature.