ED note: Links to the governor’s veto messages & to a related Ohio Capital Journal story have been added.
Late last night (June 30), Gov. Mike DeWine signed the state’s 2026-2027 $60 billion operating budget into law.
In a press release issued after 2 a.m. this morning DeWine stated: “This budget builds upon my commitment to make Ohio the best place for everyone to live their version of the American Dream, It prioritizes our children, empowers our workforce, and strengthens our communities. We are investing in the people of Ohio, not just today, but for generations to come.”
The budget flattens the state’s tax structure by dropping the top rate from 3.5% to 2.75%, a $1 billion tax reduction that critics say will largely benefit the wealthy.
The budget also includes $600 million for the Cleveland Browns to build a new stadium in suburban Cleveland, taken from the state’s unclaimed funds account, and changes the law restricting the moving of football franchises to facilitate the move.
Click to see the governor’s veto messages.
DeWine also made 67 vetos.
Among the items vetoed were:
- A provision to limit the amount school districts could carry over to 40% of its budget.
- A provision that would restrict public libraries from displaying books on gender identity and sexual orientation.
- A provision that would gives committees in the House and Senate the power to determine whether universities and colleges are complying with the higher education overhaul in Senate Bill 1, and cut funding to those not found in compliance. This DeWine said is an executive branch function.
- A provision that banned the use of SNAP benefits on sugary drinks. Instead DeWine is establishing a working group to study the issue.
- A provision that forbids state funds for homeless shelters that serve trans-youth. “No Ohio youth should be denied shelter from a facility that receives state funds.”
- A provision making Board of Education elections partisan.
[RELATED: Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine sidesteps budget vetoes in child care sector]
