“Ohio must invest in its most valuable resource that will lead this state forward- its people. House Democrats believe this can be done by putting people over politics. That means investing in things like workers, families, teachers and students so they each have the opportunities they need to succeed. -Rep. Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington), House Minority Leader
“I applaud the Governor’s initiatives and look forward to continuing to uplift working families, invest in our career tech centers throughout Ohio, and support and better train our first responders,” Hackett said. “A balanced and fiscally responsible budget is paramount, and my colleagues and I in the Senate are committed to delivering this for the people of Ohio.” -Sen. Bob Hackett (R-London)
“My hope is that we find common values that lead to a shared vision of economic prosperity, access to affordable and equitable housing, quality education, and better healthcare for all Ohioans. If we protect the rights of Ohioans and uplift every citizen, Ohio’s brightest days are ahead.” -Sen. Hearcel F. Craig (D-Columbus)
“I support the Governor’s comprehensive plan to address these things early on with education and childcare. However, it is already too late for so many Ohioans who have fallen victim to the system. We should address these issues by dedicating some of our budgets to social services and extensive criminal justice reform.”-Rep. Latyna M. Humphrey (D-Franklin County)
“Priorities and investments in the state budget should be investments in Ohioans. I’m ready to get to work to put partisan politics aside and put the people of Ohio first.” -Rep. Richard Brown (D-Canal Winchester)
“There are many issues we all agree are worth fighting for with the goal of making Ohio the best state to raise a family and start a business. I however was discouraged to not hear several priorities mentioned that are top of mind right now for many Ohioans. Keeping our communities safe for everyone- no matter what they look like or where they come from- includes doing everything we can to prevent the increase of gun violence. Despite the majority of Ohioans—Democrats, Republicans and Independents—calling for more commonsense gun safety measures, those pleas have been ignored and legislation that endangers the lives of Ohioans and law enforcement have been passed.” -Rep Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland), president, Ohio Legislative Black Caucus
“Gov. DeWine’s proposal would also expand access to child care and extend early childhood education to an additional 11,525 children in households with income below 200% of the federal poverty level. However, his proposed budget may not be up to the task of moving the dial on Ohio’s dismal infant mortality rates, child food security rankings, equitable school funding, and the overall economic security of everyday Ohioans.” – Hannah Halbert, executive dir., Policy Matters Ohio