Public Policy Advocates

House Committee Schedule

Senate Committee Schedule

Senate Committee Plans to Trim Third Frontier Bond Package

HJR 12, the resolution to expand the Third Frontier bond package, is expected to be cut significantly by Senate Republicans.  The measure, which passed the House last week, is currently pending in the Senate Finance Committee.  Senate President Bill Harris said he would like to see the package cut to $500 million in bonds, from its current $950 million.  Several Republican members of the Finance Committee have stated similar goals in regards to the measure, due to their belief that the state should not take on too much debt during a time of poor economic conditions.  Sponsors Rep. Jay Goyal (D-Mansfield) and Rep. Sandra Williams (D-Cleveland) have agreed to work with members of the committee on a compromise.

Legislature Accepts Alternative Central Ohio Casino Site

Both chambers of the Ohio Legislature passed companion resolutions last week allowing for the relocation of the Central Ohio casino.  Originally, plans called for the casino to be built on a site in the Arena District of downtown Columbus.  However, faced with growing opposition to that site, Penn National gaming considered several alternative locations before settling on the lot where the Delphi automotive plant used to sit.  The issue will appear on the May ballot, seeking statewide approval to amend Issue 3’s language to alter the location of the Columbus-area casino. 

House Ways and Means Committee Debates Income Tax Elimination Act

The House Ways and Means Committee heard proponent testimony from Rep. John Adams (R-Sidney) on HB 400, a measure that would eliminate the state income tax over the next 10 years.  The measure is similar to one of the major policy proposals being made by Republican candidate for Governor, John Kasich.  Democrats on the committee expressed concern for how the state would be able to operate without the revenue it receives from the state income tax, pointing to a projected $12 billion deficit as a result of the measure.  Rep. Adams stated his belief that with the elimination of the income tax, Ohio will be more attractive to businesses, which, combined with a reduction in government spending, will neutralize the deficit.  Committee Chair Tom Letson (D-Warren) said he does not expect to call for a vote on the measure, which he called “a fiscal disaster.” 

State Representative, Former AG Candidate Announce Candidacy for State Auditor

When GOP Gubernatorial Candidate John Kasich announced that State Auditor Mary Taylor would be his running mate, the Republican ticket was left without a candidate for State Auditor.  Over the past few days, two Republicans have announced their intention to run for the seat being vacated by Mrs. Taylor.  Rep. Seth Morgan (R-Huber Heights), a freshman House member, announced he would be seeking the nomination for Auditor, saying he represents fiscal responsibility, smaller government, support for small business, and respect for individual liberty.  Meanwhile Delaware County Prosecutor Dave Yost, who had previously been seeking the Republican nomination for Attorney General, also threw his hat in the ring for Auditor.  Mr. Yost said that his commitment to fighting corruption in government would serve him well as State Auditor.  The Republican nominee will most likely face Democratic hopeful, Hamilton County Commissioner David Pepper in November.