Cross Votes in Favor of Strategic, Balanced State Budget

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed House Bill 33, the State Operating Budget for fiscal years 2024-25, with a sweeping vote of 78-19, announced Assistant Majority Floor Leader, State Rep. Jon Cross (R-Kenton).

“One of my priorities will always be economic and workforce development,” said Cross. “I am proud to have worked on and voted in favor of a budget that keeps Ohio open for business and continues to make our state the best place to work and live.”

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 maximizes state resources. 

The House budget lays the foundation for the future by investing in Ohio financially in order to promote long-term economic growth. Cross successfully advocated for a $500 million appropriation for the All Ohio Future Fund, which invests in economic development projects. These projects bring positive economic activity to our state by providing incentives to utility providers and creating jobs.  

House Bill 33 positively impacts Ohioans in every county by continuing to lower Ohio taxes. The budget flattens and reduces the state income tax from the bottom up by 2.75% for individuals making up to $92,000 a year, providing tax relief to the vast majority of Ohioans.  

Additional appropriations highlighted by Cross are as follows:

-          $100 million towards pole replacement funding to increase access to rural broadband

-          $20 million for CDL training and licensing

-          $5 million for the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics under Bowling Green University, the University of Findlay, and Owens Community College

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.