North Summit News

State Representatives Bill Roemer and David Thomas have introduced House Bill 335, aimed at providing $3.5 billion in property tax relief for Ohio residents. This proposed legislation, titled the Property Tax Relief Now Act, is described as a comprehensive package designed to reform the state's property tax system significantly.

Rep. Thomas, vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, expressed urgency regarding the bill's introduction: “The bold proposals in this bill will directly impact every property owner in Ohio in a very meaningful way on their property tax bill next year." He emphasized that taxpayers have faced record increases over recent years due to high property values and local entities leveraging unvoted inside millage.

House Ways and Means Committee Chair Rep. Roemer also highlighted the significance of this legislative effort: "This is bold legislation that will have a significant impact on property tax reform."

Key elements of House Bill 335 include capping school district taxes through new tax credits tied to inflation rates, allowing local governments to offer homestead exemptions without state funds, enhancing transparency in levy impacts for voters, and prohibiting political subdivisions from levying inside millage beyond townships' limited use based on 2024 levels.

Furthermore, counties could increase sales taxes by up to 1% with voter approval as an alternative revenue source. The proposal mandates public hearings if any taxing authority maintains reserves exceeding 30% of its budget while granting County Budget Commissions expanded oversight capabilities over levies.

As part of its objectives, the bill aims to prevent shifts in inside millage use by school districts that would raise tax revenues stealthily. The upcoming committee assignment will determine how this proposal advances through legislative processes.