Senator Skindell Introduces Income Tax Reform Bill

From the Office of the Senator: Today, Senator Michael Skindell (D–Lakewood) introduced Senate Bill 35, which reforms Ohio's Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) to assist struggling Ohioans. When passed in 2013, after years of advocacy by Senator Skindell, Ohio's EITC contained a cap and was not refundable. Senate Bill 35 makes the tax credit stronger by removing the income restrictions and making it refundable.

“The goal of this proposed legislation is to allow for a refundable tax-relief benefit to working families in Ohio, particularly lower-income households. It is imperative that we provide these families who work so hard and still struggle to pay bills a fair shot in our economy,” said Senator Skindell.

The EITC currently exists as a credit for taxpayers whose Ohio adjusted gross income exceeds $20,000. The state credit equals 10% of the federal EITC. Ohio's EITC cannot currently exceed 50% of the tax due. The credit is also nonrefundable, thus it can only result in a reduction or elimination of tax liability, not a refund.

The existing provisions make our state EITC one of the weakest in the nation. Removing the income restrictions and making the EITC refundable would boost family income and assist poor communities by stimulating local economies. When low-income families receive their refund checks with an EITC, they purchase groceries, childcare, school supplies and other goods and services. This not only helps the families, it also boosts the local economy.

Contact: Tony DiMenna ( 614) 466-5123

Connect with Senator Skindell and the Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus!

Mailing Address:

Office of State Senator Michael Skindell
Ohio Senate Building
Ground Floor, Room 51
Columbus, OH 43215

Photo by Rick Uldricks/Patch