Rep. Ferguson Votes "No" on State Budget: Commends Pro-Family Policies, Opposes Excessive Spending and Unfair Tax Shift

State Representative Ron Ferguson (R-Wintersville) voted "no" on the state’s newly passed budget, citing serious concern over key provisions. 

“There are strong, pro-family policies in this budget that I fully support—programs that reflect values I fight for every day,” said Ferguson. “But wasteful spending and a lack of tax relief for hardworking families is what made this budget unacceptable.” 

Among the most controversial items was the inclusion of $600 million in public funding for the Cleveland Browns, a provision that has been met with clear opposition from his constituents.

“Government should not spend hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars on sports stadiums,” Ferguson said. 

Ferguson also criticized the budget’s proposed tax relief, which primarily benefits the wealthy. “This tax change doesn’t provide real relief to working-class families—it lowers the tax liability for those making over $100,000 per year, while doing little for everyone else,” he added.

Additionally, Rep. Ferguson expressed concern over how the budget affects education in his district. 

“Our children’s education is the bedrock of a strong Ohio, and with property taxes at astronomical levels, we shouldn’t be putting the burden on our residents to fund our local school districts,” said Ferguson. 

The budget now goes to the Governor’s desk for his signature.