Ohio House passes bill to eliminate replacement property tax levies

In a significant session of the Ohio House of Representatives on March 19, 2025, lawmakers passed several bills that will impact the state's education and property tax systems, as well as honor local heroes.

One of the most debated topics was Senate Bill 1, which aims to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in state higher education institutions. Proponents argue that the bill will foster an environment where students can express their opinions freely, while critics warn it may undermine efforts to ensure representation and support for marginalized groups. The bill passed with a vote of 58 to 34, reflecting a divided stance among representatives.

Another notable piece of legislation, House Bill 28, seeks to enhance transparency in property tax levies by eliminating replacement levies, which can lead to tax increases without clear voter understanding. Supporters, including Representatives Adam Matthews and Thomas Hall, emphasized the need for clarity in property tax processes, arguing that voters often confuse renewal and replacement levies. The bill passed with a vote of 62 to 29, marking a step towards simplifying Ohio's property tax system.

In a lighter moment, the House also approved Senate Bill 24, designating the Wright Flyer 3 as Ohio's official state airplane. This bill celebrates Ohio's rich aviation history and passed unanimously, highlighting the state's contributions to aviation innovation.

Additionally, the House honored local heroes by passing House Bill 38, which designates a portion of State Route 87 in Geauga County as the Doctor Steven Tackett's Veteran Memorial Highway. This tribute recognizes the contributions of Dr. Tackett, a dedicated physician and veteran, who served his community for over three decades. The bill received overwhelming support, passing with 90 affirmative votes.

As the session concluded, representatives expressed a commitment to addressing community needs through legislation, with a focus on transparency, representation, and honoring local contributions. The outcomes of these discussions will likely resonate with Ohio residents as they navigate the implications of these new laws in their daily lives.