West Stark News

State Representative Jim Thomas has voted in favor of Am. Sub. House Bill 96, the House's version of the State Operating Budget. This plan aims to provide substantial support for Ohio families and the state's future by approving over $4 billion in property tax relief and ensuring increased school funding in fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Representative Thomas commented on the bill, saying: "I am thrilled that this bill provides additional funding for public schools, school choice options, workforce readiness, higher education, and property tax relief. This represents an important step forward."

The bill emphasizes funding for education, ensuring each school district in Ohio will receive an increase in funding over the next biennium. The budget for public schools will be $207.6 million more in FY26 compared to FY25, increasing to $347.6 million in FY27. This totals a $555.2 million increase over two years.

Additionally, House Bill 96 includes measures for property tax relief. Schools that carry over more than 30% in unspent cash by the end of each year will redistribute these funds back to Ohioans, amounting to over $4 billion. The bill also expands funding for Brownfield Remediation, the Welcome Home Ohio program, and addresses the state's housing shortage.

The budget proposes support for families needing child care assistance through the Child Care Choice program, allocating $100 million annually. It also increases funding for the Help Me Grow program to assist pregnant women, caregivers, and families with young children.

Workforce readiness and higher education are prioritized in the budget, with investments in scholarships and increased funding for state institutions. It continues support for the TechCred program, which helps employers provide skills training for employees at no cost.

House Bill 96 also reinforces school choice with increased awards for specific scholarships and the establishment of an education savings account option for parents of children attending non-chartered non-public schools.

Efforts to enhance Medicaid transparency are included, with new reporting requirements for the Ohio Department of Medicaid aimed at reducing fraud and waste. The bill is now set to go to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.