Ohio House approves bill to limit unvoted property-tax increases to rate of inflation

Columbus — The Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 186 on Oct. 21, 2025, a measure that limits future unvoted property-tax increases to the rate of inflation and establishes transition aid for affected school districts, the chamber recorded 72 affirmative votes and 23 negative votes.

Supporters said the bill prevents sharp, unexpected tax spikes tied to recent property revaluations and provides short-term state funding to soften the transition. Representative Dave Thomas, the sponsor, told colleagues that the bill will stop future spikes and estimated the state would prevent “dollars $1,700,000,000” in excess taxes over the next three years if the bill passed. “If we are responsible for setting the law of the land for Ohio ... dollars $1,700,000,000.0 is the amount we can tell our taxpayers, you are not paying,” Thomas said on the floor.

The legislation was presented as a package of changes to the property-tax system, intended to protect long-term residents and limit unvoted increases resulting from rapid property-value growth. Representative Romer, speaking…