Reps. Rogers and Scherer Introduce Bill to Create Tax Deduction for Post-Secondary Expenses

State Representatives John Rogers (D-Mentor-On-The-Lake) and Gary Scherer (R-Circleville) today announced the introduction of the “Blair Deduction,” a proposal that would allow individuals to deduct up to $4,000 per year from their Ohio income taxes. This is the most recent iteration of legislation that was originally co-authored by Representative Rogers and the late Representative, Terry Blair.

“In today’s economy, students are increasingly having to weigh the benefits of furthering their education against the possibility of incurring insurmountable debt,” Rep. Rogers said. “The intent of this legislation recognizes the significant personal investment being made by so many, while also ensuring that an educated and talented workforce can be found here in Ohio – something essential to helping Ohio’s future economic growth and vitality.

Upon graduation from a post-secondary certificate or degreed program, an individual would be able to use the total net out of pocket cost of their qualified higher education expenses as the basis for an annual deduction of up to $4000 per year. This legislative proposal mirrors the deduction Ohio families are currently eligible to receive when they contribute to the State’s 529 College Savings Plans in an effort to save for an education beyond high school. Qualified higher education expenses include tuition, fees, books, supplies, equipment, room and board, and necessary special needs services.

“I am happy to join Representative Rogers on this bill that he has worked on for several years and originally with the great late Terry Blair,” Rep. Scherer said.

The “Blair Deduction” legislation now awaits referral to a House Committee.