LaRe, Ohio House Approve Momentous State Budget

COLUMBUS –The Ohio House of Representatives yesterday passed the State Operating Budget, House Bill 33, for fiscal years 2024-25, announced House Finance Committee Vice Chairman, State Rep. Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Twp.). The budget bill invests in Ohio’s future through a school funding reform plan, tax relief for all Ohioans, and several other initiatives.

The House took steps to ensure the budget bill includes a lower and more permanent tax cut. The budget flattens and simplifies the state income tax into two brackets as follows:

• 2.75% for Ohioans making between $26,000 and $100,000
• 3.5% for Ohioans making above $100,000       

This legislation also invests over $16 billion over the biennium to fund the Fair School Funding Plan, one of the House’s priority provisions. This funding will play a significant role in setting students up for success. 

Another provision aimed at setting students of for success is the modification of the 3rd-grade reading guarantee. The budget will require parental authorization before retention, redirecting decision-making to parents regarding their child's educational progress.

“It’s been an honor to work on this budget and I am excited to see it finally cross the finish line,” said LaRe. “This budget is good for Ohio families, students, and workforce.”

The budget bill supports law enforcement and promotes public safety by requiring Ohio peace officers to complete 24 hours of continuing professional training annually. Police departments will be reimbursed when officers complete OPOTA-approved training.

A provision championed by LaRe is language that would set the standards for the ability of survivors of sexual assault to be able to access the status of their examination kits.

LaRe also secured two local earmarks outlined below:

• $4.5 million in hospital relief for Fairfield Medical Center
• $4.5 million for Fairfield County Workforce Center through the Super RAPIDS fund

The state operating budget is a two-year budget that funds the operation of state agencies and programs. 

The budget now heads to Governor Mike DeWine for his signature.