Robb Blasdel Secures East Palestine Tax Deductions, Rail Safety in State Budget

State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana County) secured a deduction for taxpayers impacted by the East Palestine derailment from their state income tax and rail safety measures. Robb Blasdel pushed for these amendments into the state budget, which was approved by the General Assembly and signed into law.

“The people of East Palestine have remained strong and steadfast as their lives have been so heavily impacted over the last few months by the derailment,” Robb Blasdel said. “I hope this relief and increased rail safety shows that I am sincerely committed to finding solutions for them.”

The tax deduction will be for state income for residents, including for lost business, impacted by the train derailment in East Palestine. Additionally, Robb Blasdel supported provisions that will significantly fund rail safety crossings to enhance safety measures and help prevent accidents. 

One measure establishes the Ohio Wayside Detector Expansion Program, which sets $10M in grant funding for projects including installation, equipment, power sources, and for employee training. Another initiative under the Rail Safety Crossing Match provides a substantial $100M for rail safety.

The budget bill was signed into law earlier this week on July 4 by Gov. DeWine.