North Columbus News

On Monday, the Ohio House of Representatives gathered to address Governor DeWine's vetoes on three significant property tax reform provisions within the state's operating budget (House Bill 96). These reforms were part of a package developed over more than a year, involving nearly 100 witnesses and an extensive report from the Joint Committee on Property Tax Review and Reform.

Ohio REALTORS expressed strong support for these reforms and initiated a Call for Action to engage members across the state. REALTORS encouraged lawmakers to support homeowners by overriding the vetoes.

The House successfully overrode one veto, which prohibits school districts and local governments from using replacement and emergency levies. This aims to reduce ballot-driven tax hikes that can confuse voters. The Ohio Senate still needs to vote on this override before it becomes law.

Two other property tax-related veto overrides were postponed. These would have:

- Strengthened county budget commission authority: Allowing commissions, composed of the county auditor, treasurer, and prosecutor, to reduce levy millage if collections are deemed excessive or unnecessary.

- Reformed the 20-mill floor for schools: Mandating revenue from certain levies count toward the 20-mill floor, limiting automatic property tax growth as home values rise.

These measures aim to enhance oversight, improve fiscal transparency, and protect homeowners from unexpected property tax increases.

The House's actions demonstrate its commitment to providing property tax relief in Ohio; however, further efforts are needed for a transparent and accountable system.

Governor DeWine proposed forming a Property Tax Reform Working Group to examine relief measures. This group is tasked with reporting by September 30th. Recommendations will be reviewed by the legislature for potential enactment.

Ohio REALTORS remains dedicated to advancing meaningful reform and will continue collaborating with lawmakers and stakeholders for accountability in Ohio’s property tax system.

"Thank you to every member who stepped up and took action," stated an official message from Ohio REALTORS. "Your advocacy continues to drive progress on one of the most important homeowner issues in the state."