Bill could push school districts into more frequent levy votes

A proposed Ohio bill would push school districts back onto the ballot more often, reversing years of work in some districts to stabilize funding and reduce voter fatigue. At the same time, recently passed laws mean schools are already dealing with changes to how revenue grows over time and how much taxes can grow in relation to property valuations.

In December, several new laws were signed by Gov. Mike DeWine, which began the process of reforming taxes in Ohio. Two of these laws, HB 129 and HB 186, could have the largest impact on schools, particularly in districts experiencing growth. HB 186 would keep school tax rates, with their rates based on property valuations, from growing more than the rate of inflation each year, but only for districts who are at a 20-mill floor for tax millage. Voters with voted millage above the 20-mill floor are unlikely to see an impact.