Release:
HB 153 closes $8 billion budget hole “without tax hikes while boosting the middle class”
COLUMBUS—Speaker of the Ohio House William G. Batchelder (R-Medina) today announced that Americans for Tax Reform—a nonprofit organization that advocates for a simple tax structure through research and education—has endorsed House Bill 153, the state biennial budget bill."Governor Kasich and House Republicans made a commitment to Ohioans last year to oppose harmful tax increases,” said Josh Culling, manager of state affairs for Americans for Tax Reform. “This budget doubles down on that promise, balancing the state budget without tax hikes while boosting the middle class by eliminating Ohio's onerous estate tax. ATR applauds House Bill 153 and those who fought to make it a reality.”In a letter to legislators, ATR president Grover Norquist said he strongly urged a “yes” vote on the budget. Further, he noted that “the inclusion of Ohio’s estate tax repeal – the most punitive of its kind in the nation – is imperative to attracting investment, jobs and population” to Ohio.“I am pleased and appreciative that Americans for Tax Reform has expressed support for our budget proposal and recognized our commitment to balancing this difficult budget without raising taxes on Ohio families,” Batchelder said. “As a caucus, the House Republicans continue to advocate for a government structure that respects and serves all Ohioans through lower taxes and provides for a more attractive environment for small businesses and entrepreneurs.”
