House Democrats Set to Get to Work on Budget, Will Prioritize Improving Cost of Living for all Working Ohioans

COLUMBUS — Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) and State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Westlake) today made the following statements after receiving Governor Mike DeWine’s FY26-27 operating budget recommendations:

“As we begin working on Governor DeWine’s final budget which will help define his legacy, perhaps it’s best to make clear to the public that any budget is not about victories for Democrats or Republicans. It’s about putting people over politics and securing victories for all the hard-working men and women of Ohio,” said Leader Russo. “During these budget discussions, Ohio House Democrats are committed to fighting for policies that lower costs for every single Ohioan. From the preservation of public education funding so our children have the brightest future possible, to the protection of affordable healthcare coverage and mental health treatments, to bringing down the costs of childcare for working parents, to ensure our senior can afford to stay in our communities. Doing anything less, like more giveaways to the wealthiest Ohioans and cuts to critical funding, will threaten the future of our children, families, and Ohio’s economy.”

“Ohioans are crying out for immediate property tax relief.  This budget proposal fails to lower the cost of living for homeowners, seniors and Ohioans on fixed incomes.  Democrats will fight for more direct relief to residents,” said Rep. Sweeney, ranking member on the Ohio House Finance Committee. “The Governor’s investments in education are an essential first step to avoiding costly levies, but we must do more.  The Legislature must ensure that inadequate state funding is no longer the primary cause of property tax hikes by making sure that the state is actually paying its fair share. Now more than ever, it's essential that the state continues to invest in our future workforce and in making life more affordable here in Ohio.” 

Tuesday at 10:30a ET, the Ohio House Finance Committee will meet for the first time where it will begin to hear public testimony on the budget. The hearing is in room 313 of the Ohio Statehouse and open to the public. It can also be viewed here live on the Ohio Channel.