Rep. Sobecki leads Democratic Opposition to Misleading Ballot Language Bill

State Rep. Lisa Sobecki (D-Toledo), Ranking Member of the Ohio House Ways and Means Committee, voiced opposition to House Bill (HB) 140, a misleading ballot language bill that would create more confusion in an attempt to modify how property tax levies are worded on the ballot. HB 140 was previously introduced during the 133rd General Assembly and was vetoed by Governor DeWine.

“Once again, the House approved a misleading bill that has the opposite effect of what it is intended to do: help voters,” said Rep. Sobecki. “HB 140 does not improve property tax levy language but rather adds more confusion and contradictions.”

During debate, Rep. Sobecki offered an amendment that would have actually created more transparent ballot language in contrast to HB 140. The amendment required levies to be expressed in terms of $1,000, and would require the terms “true value” and “taxable value” to be used for official purposes by the County Auditor. The amendment was tabled along party lines.

After passing the House, HB 140 moves to the Senate for consideration.