Huffman Approves $11 Billion Transportation Budget

COLUMBUS— The Ohio Senate approved Amended House Bill 54, Ohio's $11 billion two-year transportation budget. State Senator Steve Huffman (R-Tipp City) voted in support of the bill.

"This Transportation budget is exactly what Ohio needs as we continue to invest in the growth of our state," Senator Huffman said. "I look forward to seeing the results of this funding across the 5th Senate district and am proud to support this budget."

The budget also helps smaller communities to keep their roads clear and maintained with the help of ODOT. Villages can be snowed under during intense storms and can use assistance from the Department of Transportation in clearing snow or other debris from storm damage. HB 54 provides that at no cost to a village.

“The Transportation budget addresses significant safety concerns for our citizens and business travelers,” said Senate Transportation Chairman Tom Patton. “This is truly a forward looking, 21st Century budget that helps keep Ohio’s economy moving from Lake Erie to the Ohio River.” 

Rental car drivers are also protected from receiving a ticket if the registration is expired on their rental. Additionally, the bill allows exit ramps for closed rest areas to stay open for truckers who need to stop and park during their required rest periods. 

The Transportation Budget is free of any tax increase on gas or diesel. “The Biden Administration has driven inflation and especially higher prices at the pump,” said Senate President Rob McColley. “It is important that we live within our means, much like the hard-working Ohioans who in the last several years have hoped that last quarter tank gets them to pay day.”

The $11 billion budget also maintains the convenience of voter registration at the BMV as long as the applicant provides proof of U.S. citizenship which is required to vote in Ohio.

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