Cross, Ohio House Approve Bipartisan State Budget Bill

COLUMBUS –The Ohio House of Representatives last week passed House Bill 33, the State Operating Budget for fiscal years 2024-25, announced Assistant Majority Floor Leader Jon Cross (R-Kenton). The budget bill lays a firm foundation for the state of Ohio through school funding reform, tax relief for all Ohioans, investment into major economic development projects, and several other initiatives.

The budget bill provides ample tax relief for all Ohioans by simplifying and flattening 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        

Cross championed a $750 million investment over the biennium into the All Ohio Future Fund. This fund prepares locations throughout the state to be ready for large-scale development projects. These projects bring positive economic activity to our state by providing incentives to utility providers and creating jobs.

“I’m excited to see a state budget that truly invests in Ohio’s future,” said Cross. “From Ohio’s students to its workforce—this budget ensures all Ohioans have the opportunity to thrive.”

The budget also invests over $8 billion in FY24 and more than $8.2 billion in FY25 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. 

Cross secured substantial funding for local projects. Indian Lake will receive $1 million in additional funding to continue lake maintenance. Additionally, $1 million will be directed to the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics under Bowling Green University, the University of Findlay, and Owens Community College in fiscal year 2024

Additional provisions highlighted by Cross are outlined below:

• $1 billion for the Connect4Ohio Fund to increase accessibility to economic centers for all Ohio workers.
• $50 million for broadband pole replacement to increase access to rural broadband.

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

House Bill 33 now heads to Governor Mike DeWine for his signature.