Buckeye Reporter

Greg R. Lawson, a research fellow at The Buckeye Institute, shared his thoughts following the signing of Ohio's biennial budget by Governor Mike DeWine. House Bill 96 introduces a flat income tax as part of a strategy to enhance Ohio's economic competitiveness.

Lawson remarked, "With Governor DeWine’s signature, Ohio advances a pro-growth agenda with a flat income tax that puts the Buckeye State in a better position to compete for jobs and workers." He also expressed disappointment over the governor's decision to veto certain measures. "Regrettably, the governor also vetoed the closure of several tax loopholes and some long-needed policies to reform local government," he said.

The vetoes come amid discussions about abolishing property taxes entirely, which Lawson described as "ill-timed and ultimately a mistake." Despite acknowledging that the budget is "respectable overall," he emphasized that more work remains for lawmakers. According to Lawson, efforts should focus on alleviating high property taxes and prioritizing education policy reforms for students.