04/29/2026

Message from Beth--April 29, 2026

Ohio’s legislative activity in 2026 has been steady rather than overwhelming, there are two major issues ACEC Ohio is following that shape the future of public infrastructure across the state: the upcoming capital budget and ongoing property tax reform discussions.

State agencies have already submitted roughly $2.9 billion in capital funding requests, with significant needs tied to infrastructure-focused public institutions. These requests include funding for state facilities, higher education, corrections, and locally driven community projects. To sustain current capital projects, lawmakers passed a $1.9 billion reappropriation bill (H.B. 730) last month, ensuring continuity while the next capital budget is finalized. Because of the re-appropriations bill, the upcoming capital bill may appear smaller than in previous cycles, even if overall investment levels remain strong. Legislators are expected to introduce the capital bill in the next few weeks, completing the funding package by June 30, 2026.

Equally important is the debate surrounding property tax reform. Lawmakers have passed multiple bills that would cap annual property tax revenue growth at the rate of inflation starting in 2026. Meanwhile, a separate and more dramatic proposal to eliminate property taxes entirely continues to generate statewide attention, though it has not yet qualified for the ballot.

The stakes are high. Property taxes currently fund about two-thirds of local services, including schools, public safety, and infrastructure. Any significant reduction without a clear replacement could constrain local governments’ ability to fund capital projects, potentially delaying procurement and shifting priorities.

A new bipartisan coalition, Ohioans to Protect Public Services, has launched a public awareness campaign opposing the proposal to eliminate property taxes, warning it could lead to major service cuts or shifts to higher statewide taxes if enacted. Separately, the citizen-led repeal effort seeking to put the measure before voters has not yet collected enough valid petition signatures to qualify for the ballot and continues gathering support ahead of the July 1 submission deadline.

ACEC Ohio will continue to monitor both issues and keep members informed.  Lawmakers will reconvene after the May primary working until the end of June before going back to their districts to campaign for the general election.

As always, feel free to reach out to me with questions or comments.

~Beth