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Bill would let Ohio itemizers deduct tithes on state returns; sponsors say it aligns state and federal law, fiscal note ~ $30M/year
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Summary
House Bill 444 would allow Ohio taxpayers who itemize federally to deduct tithes and church donations on their state returns; sponsors said it aligns state treatment with federal rules and supports faith‑based community services, while the committee noted the fiscal note estimating roughly $30 million annual state impact concentrated among those who itemize.
Representatives Gerald and Williams testified in support of House Bill 444, the Tithing Protection Act, which would permit Ohio taxpayers who itemize on their federal returns to deduct tithes and church donations when calculating Ohio taxable income.
Representative Gerald framed the measure as recognizing the role churches play in community services such as food pantries and mentoring and said the bill does not create a new category of deduction but aligns Ohio rules with the existing federal deduction for charitable contributions. Representative Williams emphasized faith‑based community benefits and said the bill would make state tax treatment consistent with the federal tax code.
Ranking member Troy and others noted that most taxpayers take the standard federal deduction and that the fiscal impact would be concentrated among the minority who itemize; the analysis presented in committee estimated about $30 million per year in reduced state income tax revenue. Sponsors said that money represents donations the state should not claim as taxable income and indicated willingness to clarify definitions to ensure the bill covers all religious institutions without discrimination.
The bill had its first hearing; no action was taken and sponsors invited committee discussion on the precise definition of qualifying religious organizations and whether to expand eligibility language.
