Lorain Times

State Representative Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville) announced that the Ohio House of Representatives has approved the conference committee report for Am. Sub. House Bill 96, the State Operating Budget. This budget plan will fund state programs and operations for the next two years and includes measures aimed at providing property tax relief to Ohioans while increasing funding for school districts.

The budget aims to boost funding for public education by nearly $700 million over the biennium compared to FY25, completing the final phase of the Cupp-Patterson funding model. "This budget increases funding for public education and completes the Cupp-Patterson formula, a step forward for Ohio’s students," said Manning. She emphasized that more work is needed to ensure equitable funding across all public schools in Ohio.

The budget also prioritizes workforce readiness with investments in higher education programs such as the Governor’s Merit Scholarship and Choose Ohio First Scholarship. It also increases the State Share of Instruction by 1% annually to help reduce costs for students at state institutions.

For families needing childcare assistance, a new Child Care Choice program will provide $100 million in support. Additionally, increased funds are allocated to the Help Me Grow program supporting pregnant women and families with young children facing developmental challenges.

House Bill 96 continues investment in local community initiatives like Brownfield Remediation and blight demolition projects. It also supports housing through new initiatives targeting family home construction.

Public safety is addressed with $65 million allocated over two years for local law enforcement training and $27 million dedicated to the Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center. An additional $8 million is earmarked for grants to small county volunteer fire departments.

Property tax relief is a key component of this budget, offering a process where schools carrying forward more than 40% of their general budget can redistribute unspent funds back as property tax relief starting January 2026. "While property tax relief is being delivered...there is still more work to do," stated Manning regarding its impact on local school districts.

Manning highlighted several provisions included in the bill: $500,000 committed to Neighborhood Alliance; $1 million allocated to Riveon Mental Health and Recovery; $500,000 appropriated to National Inventors Hall of Fame; $300,000 issued for Senior Community Services; $750,000 provided to Lorain County Justice Center; and $350,000 assigned to 1N5 Foundation supporting suicide prevention efforts.

House Bill 96 now awaits consideration by the Governor.