Rep. Denson: Budget a mixed bag, delivering for some and leaving others behind

COLUMBUS—Rep. Sedrick Denson (D-Cincinnati) issued a statement following the passage of the state budget, House Bill 110. Democrats expressed concerns about a number of provisions within the bill, including a more than $1.64 billion tax giveaway to largely benefit the wealthiest Ohioans and an increase in funding for the state’s EdChoice Voucher Program, which undermines public education in Ohio.

“While this budget makes some necessary investments, it simply leaves too many Ohioans behind. Working class people, families, marginalized communities, they deserve more. We must continue to work to get everyone the resources they need to thrive, not just some,” said Rep. Denson. 

Additionally, Democrats opposed several public policy measures within the budget, including attacks on healthcare access for LGBTQ Ohioans and abortion care, as well as undermining police accountability measures and Ohio’s new redistricting reforms.

Democrats, however, did applaud the inclusion of $250 million for broadband development in underserved areas as well as the reinstatement of the Fair School Funding Plan, an improved public school funding formula that better addresses the needs of Ohio students, teachers and communities.

Democrats indicated they will send to the governor a list of requested budget line-item vetoes.