Majority Whip Nick Santucci has put his stamp on a budget that's promising to shake things up in Ohio. In a move by the Ohio House of Representatives, the State Operating Budget for the next two years sailed through with provisions that supporters say will fortify fundamental values of freedom, family, and fiscal responsibility. A significant inclusion in this budget is property tax relief which many a homeowner has been clamoring for. According to official statements, Ohioans could see over $2.5 billion in property taxes starting to roll back in January 2026.
This budget isn’t just about tax cuts, though; it's geared to quickly deliver more than $3 million to the Mahoning Valley. It’s looking to lower the cost of higher education, support the workforce, and bolster brownfield cleanup efforts. Santucci spoke of gratitude for the chance to shape this budget, noting, "It lowers the cost of higher education, supports our workforce, and boosts funding for brownfield cleanup and site readiness—helping turn blighted properties into housing and economic opportunity," as per the information presented by the Ohio House of Representatives.
Trumbull County and the encompassing Lake to River region are also set to benefit, with strategic investments aimed at reinforcing infrastructure, spurring economic growth, and improving the quality of life. From potential pipelines for natural resources to resources for regional airports and military facilities, such investments are spread across the board.
Further brownie points for the budget come with a phased reduction in state income tax, expected to potentially set off sparks in Ohio's economy. The top tax bracket will dip from 3.5% to 3.125% in tax year 2025, and eventually to 2.75% in tax year 2026 and beyond. According to insights from the Ohio House, this move is believed to competitively position Ohio against its neighbors, to simplify the tax code and to naturally spur revenue.
Educational funding is another pillar of this budget, with nearly $700 million more allocated to public education over two years compared to FY25. This boost completes the rollout of the Cupp-Patterson funding model and is directed to bolster the education and well-being of Ohio's students. Ohio public schools can look forward to embracing these new funds with open arms.
