Lundy: Kasich's Cuts Hurt Schools, Communities and Middle Class Families

The most important bill we work on every two years is the Budget Bill. I wanted to update you on changes we have made in Finance Committee to HB 59.

I still have concerns because the latest changes continue to lock in cuts by Gov. Kasich which will hurt our schools, communities and middle class families. More money for school funding was promised, but the changes do not begin to solve the problems created by $1.8 billion in cuts in the governor’s last budget. By continuing to cut education, we are short-changing our future, limiting our long-term economic growth potential and forcing downward pressure on local property taxpayers.

The budget still includes a 7% income tax cut that will disproportionally benefit the wealthiest Ohioans. I believe that instead of more tax cuts that favor the rich, we should be prioritizing our schools, communities and our middle class families. I am pleased with a bi-partisan agreement to eliminate the governor’s proposal to expand the sales tax to over 80 services in Ohio. 

We must continue to work together to make Medicaid expansion work. It is estimated that over the next six years $2.3 billion dollars will be saved by getting Ohioans into doctor’s offices rather than emergency rooms. 

We must work together to find real solutions to the real problems we face. The new budget must be approved by the end of this June. 

Please make plans now to join us for our next “Lundy Listens” town hall meeting May 11 at 11 a.m. at The Sheffield Village Municipal Complex (4340 Colorado). You can always contact me with your concerns about state issues at 614-644-5076 or Rep.55@ohiohouse.gov. I work for you and look forward to serving you.