The Ohio House of Representatives passed HB 64 on Wednesday April 22nd by a mostly party line vote 63-35. The legislation builds on a decade of income tax cuts that primarily benefit the wealthiest Ohioans. The cost of the 6.3% income tax cut is $1.2 billion over the biennium. Since 2005, Ohio has cut the income tax repeatedly, and Ohioans have fewer jobs, smaller paychecks, and a higher poverty rate. We could make major investments into education, infrastructure, public health, and other great public services that strengthen our communities.
We are also disappointed that the Ohio House removed language establishing a tax expenditure review commission and an appropriate severance tax. The Ohio Senate now has the opportunity to build on the House’s work related to investments in education (including pre-K and higher ed), local government, and community services.