Buckeye Reporter

Ohio House Republicans have announced the passage of a budget plan emphasizing fiscal responsibility, historic property tax relief, and increased public school funding. The announcement was made on the social media platform X.

According to the Ohio House of Representatives, the budget plan, encapsulated in House Bill 96, is presented as a forward-looking and fiscally responsible initiative aimed at investing in Ohio's students, families, and future. The plan includes provisions to boost funding for schools, expand access to affordable childcare, and prioritize workforce readiness. It is described as a comprehensive approach to address the state's needs while maintaining fiscal discipline.

The budget allocates over $4 billion in property tax relief for Ohioans. This relief is structured through a mechanism that requires school districts with more than 30% in unspent cash reserves at the end of each year to redistribute funds back to taxpayers. This initiative is touted as the largest property tax cut in the state's history, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on property owners.

In terms of education funding, the budget ensures that every public school district in Ohio receives an increase in funding over the next biennium. Specifically, public schools are set to receive $207.6 million more in fiscal year 2026 compared to fiscal year 2025, with an additional $347.6 million increase in fiscal year 2027. This results in a total increase of $555.2 million in state aid for public schools over the two-year period.

The Ohio House GOP is the Republican majority caucus in the Ohio House of Representatives, responsible for advancing legislative priorities that align with conservative fiscal and policy values. The caucus focuses on initiatives that promote economic growth, education reform, and responsible governance. Their legislative efforts are aimed at creating a prosperous and sustainable future for Ohio residents.