Jo Ingles

3 days ago | statenews.org | Jo Ingles

Democratic state lawmakers are taking steps to put marriage equality on the ballot in 2026 so voters could decide whether to recognize gay marriages in Ohio through a constitutional amendment. That’s just one of several provisions introduced by Democratic lawmakers to mark Pride Month in Ohio. It’s been more than five decades since the first official PRIDE protest, and Rep. Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) says LGBTQ people are still fighting for basic rights others take for granted.

4 days ago | statenews.org | Jo Ingles

Some Republican state lawmakers are getting ready to introduce a bill that change the threshold for being able to pass a local property tax levy to 60% or more. “Taxpayers are tapped out and just really at their wits' end,” Rep. Dave Thomas (R-Ashtabula), one of the legislation’s sponsors, said. Right now, local levies pass with a simple majority. Thomas said it raising the threshold to 60% would ensure there is broader support.

1 week ago | statenews.org | Jo Ingles

There’s an amendment in the proposed Ohio state budget that would strip away a big chunk of funding many convention and visitors bureaus now receive. The suggested amendment would require smaller counties that collect more than $500,000 in lodging tax to redirect two-thirds of those funds to support other needs affected by that tourism. That would leave a third of the dollars for that county's convention and visitors bureau.

1 week ago | statenews.org | Jo Ingles

More than 100 pastors and religious leaders throughout Ohio have signed onto a letter urging state lawmakers to say “no dice” to expanded gambling. Among the group is Rep. Gary Click (R-Vickery), who is also a pastor. “We know that gambling appeals to those who have the lowest education, the lowest income and the greatest debt. As we increase gambling, especially online gambling, we are hurting, we are harming, the most vulnerable people in the state of Ohio," Click said.

1 week ago | statenews.org | Jo Ingles

Advocates for rural school districts argue the money allocated to them in the current proposed state budget falls short of what they need — and that it will hurt small districts the most. They gathered at the Ohio Statehouse Wednesday afternoon to take their message to lawmakers. But Republican leaders said it's unlikely previous levels of funding will be restored because of the high price tag.