Senator Schaffer Issues Statement on Governor DeWine's State of the State Address

January 31, 2023

COLUMBUS— State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) offered the following statement today regarding Governor DeWine’s 2023 State of the State address:

“I applaud the governor’s efforts to expand economic development efforts, strengthen our workforce, and support families in the state of Ohio.

Ohio is red hot! We have seen announcement after announcement from major companies choosing Ohio as the building site for new facilities, demonstrating that our great state is the jobs center of the Midwest; the proof is in the 14,000 new jobs, $1.1 billion in new Ohio payroll, and $24.9 billion in new capital investment that we have seen in the last four years.

Thanks to the efforts of the DeWine Administration and JobsOhio, Intel is bringing thousands of jobs and billions of dollars to Licking County and the surrounding area. Our workforce is thriving as companies recognize Ohio as the competitive option for investment. I am thrilled to work with local officials and Governor DeWine to continue making Ohio a national leader in new jobs.

Additionally, I am pleased that Governor DeWine cited his visit to the Fairfield County Workforce Center as an example of career tech centers all across Ohio that work to provide citizens with a variety of trade experience. These centers play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of Ohio’s workforce.

I also share the governor’s desire to support and uplift Ohio’s families by easing the financial burden felt by so many. That is why I have introduced Senate Bill 39, which repeals the state sales tax on baby products such as diapers, cribs, strollers, car seats, and baby monitors. I am proud to see Governor DeWine take initiative and include a similar measure in his budget proposal. We want Ohio to be a welcoming place for families, big and small.

There are many more positives in the governor’s speech, like increased funds for police training and mental health services, which are very encouraging. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass a budget that benefits all Ohioans.”