Ghanbari: State budget delivers for Wood County

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari, R-Perrysburg, voted to support the state operating budget bill, which passed in the General Assembly on Friday.

The legislation provides billions in funding over the next two fiscal years to build a strong foundation for the state’s future.

Ghanbari serves as a member of the House Finance Committee that oversaw the budget process.

“We pushed for a budget that’s benefitting all Ohioans,” Ghanbari said in a press release. “I want the families in Wood County to succeed, and this budget will enable everyone to thrive here in our state.”

The budget includes an income tax cut that will simplify, flatten and make more permanent the state income tax into two brackets. Under this new system, individuals earning between $26,050 and $100,000 will benefit from an income tax rate of 2.75%. Those earning above $100,000 will have a flattened rate of 3.5%.

 Additionally, the state’s budget commits to the future of Ohio’s youth by making a historic investment of over $16 billion in primary and secondary education through the Fair School Funding Plan. Simultaneously, the legislation includes an investment in school choice with a universal voucher program. This program is designed to safeguard lower-income families and offers options beyond traditional public schools, which ensures parents can make the best decisions for their children’s education.

The state is also investing over $286 million in early childhood education as it enables the expansion of early education programs and initiatives. And to further support children and parents, the budget allocates $30 million to improve childcare infrastructure throughout the state.

Ghanbari noted that economic development and workforce remains a priority as this budget creates tax credits dedicated to workforce housing and provides $750M to the All Ohio Future Fund that will help drive job creation, attract investments and foster innovation.

Ghanbari has also focused on public safety as this budget dedicates funds to the Next Gen 9-1-1 program. This program empowers first responders with advanced technology and capabilities to serve the public effectively in emergencies. The funding will allow emergency services to have access to enhanced features such as accurate location data, multimedia messaging, and improved call routing, ensuring rapid response and saving precious time in critical situations.

The budget was signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine on Tuesday.