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Rep. Pizzulli Highlights State Budget Wins

July 16, 2025
Republican Newsroom

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COLUMBUS – State Representative Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County) recently announced that the Ohio House of Representatives approved the conference committee report for Am. Sub. House Bill 96 –the State Operating Budget. The budget plan, which allocates funding for state programs and operations for the next two years, includes provisions that aim to protect freedom, family, and fiscal responsibility—ensuring no tax increases for Ohioans.

“This fiscally responsible budget ensures no tax increases, protects rural schools with fair school funding, and spurs economic opportunity in the greater Appalachian Region,” said Pizzulli.

Pizzulli championed the following measures:

  • Strengthen financial literacy requirements through real, hands-on experience via student-run credit unions, ensuring young Ohioans know how to manage their finances.
  • Establish the Ibogaine Treatment Study Committee to evaluate the use of ibogaine for treating individuals with substance use disorders and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and mild traumatic brain injuries, providing an innovative solution to the drug epidemic.
  • Prohibit the Division of Parole and Community Services from licensing a halfway house, reentry center, or community residential center within 500 feet of a school or childcare center, protecting Ohio children. 
  • Invest $12 million per fiscal year for Shawnee State University and an additional $500,000 each year for the Civic and Culture Program for Appalachia and $75,000 each year to support the Shawnee State University Institute for Appalachian Public Policy, increasing educational opportunities for students. 
  • Require the State Board of Emergency Medical, Fire, and Transportation Services to create a process for EMTs, firefighters, paramedics, first responders, and inspectors to be officially recognized as retired, honoring first responders.

“I am committed to making sure young people can stay and thrive here,” said Pizzulli. “I want the 90th House District to be the best and safest place to live, work, raise a family, and open a business.”

¿House Bill 96 was signed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine on June 30, 2025.