Senate Democrats Discuss Budget Priorities
Today, the Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus held a press conference to discuss their budget priorities for the 135th General Assembly.
“We believe our responsibility to the 11.7 million people of our state is to create a fair, transparent budget that works for every Ohioan so that Ohio can truly be a state of opportunity for all,” said Senate Democratic Leader Nickie J. Antonio. “Our budget priorities reflect a commitment to build a budget that invests in Ohio’s working families, children, young people, teachers, workers and seniors to create opportunity for everyone.”
Over the next few months, Senate Democrats discussed their plans to ensure the budget will:
- support fair tax policies
- increase access to quality and affordable healthcare
- prioritize fair funding, transparency and accountability in education
- strengthen our workforce
- support business growth, especially small businesses
- provide more resources and safety measures for local communities
- increase safe and affordable housing
- protect our environment
"This budget presents a unique opportunity to strategically invest in our communities, said Senator Vernon Sykes, who serves as the Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee. "While there is much in this budget that will help us create a better Ohio for all, more work is needed to achieve this goal. We must be careful to make adequate investments to critical services and refocus on expanding opportunities for the people of Ohio."
The Ohio House of Representatives passed their version of the budget (House Bill 33) last week, which is now being heard in Senate committees. The legislature must present a final version of the bill to the governor by June 30.
Watch the full press conference here.