Butler County Today

State Representative Jennifer Gross of West Chester has opposed the proposed State Operating Budget, specifically Am. Sub. House Bill 96, during a recent House session. Gross voiced concerns regarding the budget's failure to address certain key areas, citing a lack of definitive property tax reform, income tax reduction, and concerns about government accountability in increased spending and the provision of a loan to a professional football stadium.

Despite her opposition, Gross acknowledged the budget's potential. "I am extremely proud of Speaker Huffman and our leadership for the enhancement of school choice and Medicaid transparency," she said. Nevertheless, Gross felt the budget did not adequately alleviate the tax burden on Ohioans, stating, "While the budget process was thorough and impactful, this budget did not go far enough to help Ohioans and reduce their tax burden."

A significant element of House Bill 96 is its focus on school choice. It aims to increase the maximum award for both the Autism Scholarship and the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship, while also establishing education savings accounts for parents with children in non-chartered non-public schools.

The bill also focuses on Medicaid transparency. It includes provisions designed to protect taxpayer dollars and minimize fraud, waste, and abuse by increasing reporting requirements for the Ohio Department of Medicaid. These requirements are slated for review by the Joint Medicaid Oversight Committee.

House Bill 96 will next be considered by the Ohio Senate for further review.