Rep. White: Republicans' Veto Override Leaves Local Communities Holding the Bag, Still No Real Property Relief for Majority of Ohioans

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Erika White (D-Springfield Township) today voted “NO” on the vote to override a school district property tax levy restriction provision vetoed in House Bill 96 (the state operating budget). Line-item 66 would eliminate several types of levies, limiting the choices voters have in how to support their schools and local governments, and would not provide real property tax relief to Ohioans. Real property tax relief is one of the most pressing needs for everyday Ohioans. House Democrats are ready and willing to work together to get that done.

“Ohio residents have depended on levies to fund vital non-school services, especially public safety. However, Line-Item 66 seeks to remove this essential power, ignoring the needs and decisions of local communities. A veto override would silence communities across Ohio, including Lucas County, where Springfield Township and Maumee have chosen to invest in their safety services. I am committed to protecting safety, jobs, and this vital support,” said Rep. White. 

Thanks to public advocacy, the two other provisions that were supposed to be called onto the floor today were not called.

Instead of the state providing real tax relief, Republicans continue to prioritize property tax proposals that benefit the wealthiest Ohioans and that give handouts to billionaires for sports stadiums. Republicans are passing the buck to get schools and local communities to pay the price for wasteful state spending.

During this General Assembly, House Democrats have introduced several bipartisan pieces of legislation to help Ohioans lower their property taxes that the Republican supermajority have failed to act on. The proposed legislation would result in meaningful and targeted property tax relief.