State Representative Jim Buchy
Bold Proposals Moving Ohio in Right Direction 

During my time in the state legislature, I have had the privilege to work with 11 state budgets. Each one was unique in its own ways and each one presented its own set of challenges. 

But the last two—both proposed by Governor Kasich—have probably had the most substance and included the biggest issues of any of the budgets I’ve been involved in. Of course, the one signed into law in 2011 effectively closed an $8 billion budget gap, which was desperately needed if we were to get our state’s economy moving in the right direction again. Along with that, we were able to balance the budget without raising taxes. In fact, we lowered taxes, including eliminating the death tax. 

They have both focused on finding ways to improve Ohio’s economy by creating jobs. By lowering taxes and reducing the burdens on job creators, our state is becoming more competitive. A recent article published by CEO Magazine moved Ohio up 13 spots in its rankings of the best states to do business. That was the biggest improvement of any state in the country. 

If you ask me, this is no coincidence. Individuals know how to spend their own money better than the government does. Because we have to compete against 49 other states, the effort to implement responsible policies to strengthen businesses and families is forever ongoing. 

Since the beginning of 2011, Ohio’s reserve funds—often referred to as the rainy day fund—have grown from just 89 cents to nearly $2 billion. Having extra money available is critically important during times of emergency or if the economy goes south. The people of the 84th House District understand the value of saving, and I have been pleased to see the State of Ohio take the same conservative, responsible approach. 

By the end of this month, another state operating budget will be signed into law. It will first head to a conference committee, where select members of the House and Senate will meet to resolve any differences before sending it to the governor’s desk. I applaud Governor Kasich for proposing bold reforms, and I firmly believe that the budget he will be signing is stronger than the one he introduced.