Lorain Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has agreed on Senate amendments to Sub. House Bill 54, the state's transportation budget for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Speaker Pro Tempore Gayle Manning announced the decision, emphasizing the bill's role in advancing Ohio's transportation infrastructure.

Sub. House Bill 54 is designed to fund development and maintenance projects across Ohio, allocating over $11.48 billion for highway construction and safety improvements. Manning highlighted the bill's focus on enhancing public safety: “This funding will directly improve transportation infrastructure and make our roadways safer.”

Key amendments include removing a requirement for contractors to indemnify railroad companies against damage due to negligence, earmarking $3 million annually for Regional Transportation Planning Organizations (RTPOs), and mandating proof of U.S. citizenship during Bureau of Motor Vehicles transactions for voter registration eligibility.

Additional provisions allow schools to own or contract vehicles transporting up to 12 passengers, including the driver, for student transport. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is also tasked with assisting villages with snow removal, salt application, and mowing under specific conditions.

The bill invests over $393 million in new highway construction and appropriates $13.5 million annually for the Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership Program, supporting workforce transportation in both rural and urban areas. Funding for Transportation Improvement Districts increases to $9 million each fiscal year, aiming to stimulate job creation through economic development initiatives.

To further innovation in transportation, Sub. House Bill 54 establishes the Division of Advanced Air Mobility within ODOT. Public safety receives a boost with a commitment of $382 million towards targeted roadway safety upgrades over two years.

Additionally, more than $4.1 billion is dedicated to maintaining Ohio’s existing highways through operations such as roadway replacement, culvert inspections, and bridge maintenance.

Sub. House Bill 54 now awaits the Governor's signature.