Swearingen Votes in Favor of State Operating Budget

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed House Bill 33, the State Operating Budget for fiscal years 2024-25, announced State Rep. D.J. Swearingen (R-Huron).

The House-led budget commits substantial resources to economic and workforce development, family enrichment, and education for Ohioans of all ages. House Bill 33 is a fiscally responsible balanced budget that supports everyday Ohioans and lays the foundation for the future by investing in the state and maximizing state resources.

The budget invests $65 million into Ohio’s Veterans Homes, providing critical support and care for those who have sacrificially served our country. The funding will be used to make upgrades to Veterans Homes throughout the state.

“It is crucial we invest in our veterans, who made enormous sacrifices to preserve and protect the freedoms that our families enjoy,” said Swearingen. 

The House continues to take significant steps to lower Ohio taxes. The budget flattens and cuts the state income tax down to 2.75% for individuals making up to $92,000 a year, providing tax relief to Ohioans in every district.  

“One of my priorities is to alleviate economic burden on Ohioans,” said Swearingen. “This tax cut will provide relief to the larger part of our state.” 

Additional provisions highlighted by Swearingen are as follows:

-          Kelleys Island will receive $2 million to support the development of sewer and water infrastructure.

-          The Sandusky City School District will receive $7.613 million in fiscal year 2024 for the construction of culinary and welding facilities. 

“The Village of Kelleys Island is grateful to Rep. Swearingen for his efforts in funding the design and planning of a public sewer system for our community,” said Mayor Ron Ehrbar. “Kelleys Island is home to many Ohioans and a key destination for many tourists. Making sure our infrastructure is good for our residents and visitors, as well as protecting the waters of Lake Erie, is important.” 

“We appreciate the continued support from Representative Swearingen for career technical education in the Sandusky City School District,” said Brandy Bennett, Director of the Sandusky City School District Career Tech Center. “We look forward to continuing our high quality career technical education for our Sandusky High School students.”

“It’s critical that we continue to invest in our communities’ local infrastructure and make sure our kids have the skills for in-demand jobs after they graduate,” said Swearingen.

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

The budget awaits consideration from the Ohio Senate.