On March 15, Governor Mike DeWine released his budget proposal for fiscal years 2020-2021.
During his announcement, DeWine emphasized the importance of investing in Ohio now and being proactive in tackling the state’s most pressing issues. This includes investing in children’s health and education, metal health and substance abuse services, workforce development and skills-training, and the protection of Lake Erie.
DeWine notes that Ohio’s current fiscal position allows the state to make the necessary investments to better the lives of Ohioans and to strengthen the economy. According to Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, tax cuts are not included in the proposal because, unlike past years, lack of a skilled workforce is more of an impediment to economic growth than high taxes.
In addition, the Governor wants to collaborate with local governments. By investing in these communities, the Governor hopes to help local leaders provide citizens with the services they need.
Some of the points in DeWine’s $68 billion two-year budget proposal include:
- $200 million in workforce initiatives to help Ohioans develop skillsets that are in demand in our changing economy.
- More than $200 million across several agencies to invest in mental health and addiction services.
- $900 million over the course of 10 years for the H2Ohio fund to preserve Lake Erie and Ohio’s waterways.
- $500 million to be distributed to school districts to help at-risk children.
- $50 million to fund home-visitation programs targeted at helping new or at-risk mothers to reduce infant mortality and improve school readiness.
You can find the full budget proposal here.
You can find the budget highlights here.