Reps. Jarrells, Williams Introduce Bipartisan Church Donations Tax Deduction Bill

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Majority Whip Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) last month held a press conference introducing House Bill (HB) 444, the Tithing Protection Act, which would allow a personal income tax deduction for Ohioans who make certain donations to churches.

“For many Ohioans, tithing is an act of faith, sacrifice, and service that strengthens our communities. The Tithing Protection Act honors that commitment by ensuring families who give generously to their churches are treated fairly in our tax code. This is about protecting the right to give, uplifting our places of worship, and recognizing the vital role faith communities play in the lives of Ohioans,” said Rep. Jarrells.

The Tithing Protection Act would amend the Ohio Revised Code to ensure that taxpayers who itemize deductions on their federal return may also deduct qualifying charitable contributions made to a church or church association from their state taxable income.

HB 444 was introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives and is currently awaiting committee assignment.

You can watch the full press conference here.