Swearingen, Ohio House Approve Momentous Operating Budget

COLUMBUS – The Ohio House of Representatives today passed House Bill 33, the state operating budget for fiscal years 2024-25, announced State Rep. D.J. Swearingen (R-Huron). The budget bill lays a firm foundation for the state of Ohio through tax relief for all Ohioans, school funding reform, and several other initiatives.

The budget bill takes a major step to provide all Ohioans tax relief by including a lower and more permanent tax cut. Under this legislation, state income tax is flattened and simplified into two brackets outlined below: 

• 2.75% for Ohioans making between $26,000 and $100,000
• 3.5% for Ohioans making above $100,000       

The budget also plays a significant role in setting Ohio’s students up for success.  House Bill 33 invests over $8 billion in FY24 and more than $8.2 billion in FY25 to fund the Fair School Funding Plan, one of the House’s priority provisions. 

“Ohio has passed a balanced budget,” said Swearingen. “It cuts taxes, builds up our workforce and roads, and invests in the education of our children. I am proud of the work that the legislature has accomplished.”

Swearingen secured $2 million in funding for Kelleys Island to be used towards the public sewer system project.

The state operating budget is a two-year budget that funds the operation of state agencies and programs. 

The final version of the budget comes after months of hearings and negotiations. House Bill 33 now heads to Governor Mike DeWine for his signature.