Rep. Brennan Supports House Democratic Plan to Lower Energy Costs, Provide Relief to Ohio Families

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D–Parma) today announced his support for a new House Democratic legislative effort to address rising energy costs and provide immediate financial relief to Ohio households.

The legislation would:  

• Freeze utility rate increases from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio for 12 months.  
• Provide immediate relief to Ohioans through a $150 direct payment energy dividend for 5 million Ohioan ratepayers funded by a severance tax on oil and gas extraction. 

“As a retired public school teacher, I’ve spent my career working with families who are doing everything right but still struggling to make ends meet,” said Rep. Brennan. “Right now, too many Ohioans are being hit with unpredictable and rising utility bills. We need to provide real, immediate relief.”

Rep. Brennan emphasized that freezing utility rate increases will help stabilize household budgets and prevent sudden spikes in monthly bills, while the proposed energy dividend would put money directly back into the pockets of working families.

“This is about fairness and affordability,” added Rep. Brennan. “Ohioans should not have to choose between keeping the lights on and paying for groceries or medication. A temporary rate freeze gives families breathing room, and the energy dividend ensures they see a direct benefit.”

The proposal would also fund the $150 payment by increasing Ohio’s severance tax from 2.5 percent to 7 percent. A severance tax is a fee paid by oil and gas companies for the right to extract natural resources from the ground in Ohio-essentially ensuring that when private companies profit from publicly shared resources, the people of Ohio receive a fair return.

“For too long, large energy companies have profited from Ohio’s natural resources while local communities see little direct benefit,” continued Rep. Brennan. “It’s time to rebalance that equation and make sure Ohio families share in the value of what’s being taken from our state.”

Rep. Brennan noted that addressing energy costs is a critical step in tackling the broader affordability challenges facing Ohio families and reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing policies that protect consumers and promote economic stability.

“I will continue fighting for practical solutions that lower costs, increase transparency, and put Ohio families first,” concluded Rep. Brennan.