Butler County Today

State Representative Thomas Hall announced the Ohio House of Representatives' approval of the conference committee report for Am. Sub. House Bill 96, also known as the State Operating Budget. This budget outlines funding for state programs and operations over the next two years, focusing on freedom, family, and fiscal responsibility. It includes historic property tax relief, a flat tax rate, and increased state funding for school districts.

"I am proud to vote yes on a budget that delivers much-needed property tax relief to Ohioans," said Hall. "I am also grateful for systematic reforms that give clarity to Ohio voters when voting on tax levies."

The budget responds to concerns about rising property taxes by implementing measures that could save Ohioans over $2.5 billion starting in January 2026. Schools with significant cash carryovers will distribute funds back to residents as property tax relief.

The bill also introduces structural changes to improve transparency and control over local property taxes. These include allowing county commissioners to offer a 2.5% owner-occupancy tax credit and providing homestead exemptions.

On income tax, the budget lowers the top bracket from 3.5% to 3.125% in 2025 and further reduces it to 2.75% in 2026, transitioning Ohio towards a flat tax system.

Ohio public schools are set to receive nearly $700 million more than in FY25 through continued support of the Cupp-Patterson funding model.

House Bill 96 invests in community initiatives such as Brownfield Remediation and housing programs while supporting families through child care assistance and developmental support services.

The bill enhances school choice by increasing scholarship awards and establishing education savings accounts for non-chartered non-public school students.

Public safety is prioritized with investments in law enforcement training and emergency response programs.

Workforce readiness is addressed through scholarships and increased funding for higher education institutions.

Healthcare transparency is promoted by tightening Medicaid program oversight.

Conservative values are reflected in various provisions such as excluding certain items from SNAP purchases, removing proposed tax increases, regulating library materials accessible to minors, altering affirmative action requirements, restricting Medicaid fund usage for DEI programs, expanding abortion statistics reporting, flag display regulations, and stipulations on youth shelter funding regarding gender transition promotion.

House Bill 96 now awaits consideration by the Governor.