Rep. Russo says transportation budget moves state in right direction

Rep. Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) issued a statement following the final passage of House Bill (HB) 74, the state’s two-year transportation budget. Democrats fought against the governor’s proposed cuts to public transit funding in the bill, securing more than $221 million over the next two years, more than doubling the governor’s proposed investment. 

“Transportation is vital to our workforce, generates good-paying jobs, and is a critical component of our economic well-being,” said Rep. Russo.  “I am especially pleased we secured more than double the initial public transit funds proposed by the Governor.  We must continue to prioritize state investments in our public transit systems if our economy is to fully benefit from connecting people with jobs, healthcare, food, and vital services.” 

Other key Democratic wins in the transportation budget include:

Ensuring fairness and transparency of taxpayer dollars by requiring more highway construction and maintenance projects are subject to competitive bidding;
Removing the governor’s proposed hikes in vehicle registration and other fees to save Ohioans money;
Securing funds for public transit vouchers for victims of domestic violence who need help getting to court, medical appointments and school.

The transportation budget now moves to the governor to be signed into law.