Ohio Senate advances House Bill 96 amid funding debates for public schools

House Bill 96 is shaping up to be a pivotal piece of legislation for Ohio's public schools, with significant implications for funding and local control. During a recent Olentangy Schools Board of Education meeting, officials discussed the ongoing reconciliation process between the House and Senate versions of the bill, which is expected to conclude by June 25.

The Senate's version of House Bill 96 maintains state funding projections, keeping them relatively flat, while the House proposed an increase of up to $18.7 million over the biennium. However, the Senate's approach includes a growth supplement of approximately $250 per student and performance-based funding, which could provide an additional $400 to $500 per student. Despite these supplements, the overall funding per pupil remains a concern, as it does not adequately cover the rising costs of education, which average around $16,000 per student annually.

A critical point of contention is the proposed "clawback" provision, which threatens to reduce local funding that schools receive from community-approved levies. Board members expressed strong opposition to this measure, arguing that it undermines local democracy and the community's will. They highlighted that only traditional K-12 public schools would be subject to this clawback, while private schools and other educational entities would not face similar restrictions.

Additionally, the Senate's version of the bill seeks to phase out the authority for replacement levies by January 2026, further complicating funding for schools. This change could severely limit the ability of districts to maintain financial stability in the face of rising operational costs.

As the legislative process unfolds, the Olentangy Schools Board remains committed to advocating for fair funding and protecting local resources, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in how education is financed in Ohio. The outcome of House Bill 96 will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for the future of public education funding in the state.