Full Breakdown
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Signs Property Tax Legislation Amid Voting Restrictions
12/23/2025, 12:25:27 AM
Legislative Changes to Property Taxation
On December 22, 2025, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed a series of property tax bills aimed at providing significant tax relief to homeowners while also addressing voting regulations. The legislation includes House Bill 124, House Bill 129, House Bill 186, House Bill 309, and House Bill 335, which collectively are projected to save taxpayers approximately $3 billion over the next three years. These bills limit future increases in property taxes triggered by rising property values, thereby reducing the financial burden on homeowners.
House Bill 335 caps revenue increases from inside millage levies due to property reappraisals, while House Bill 186 modifies how school district property taxes are calculated, incorporating fixed-sum levies into the millage floor. House Bill 129 adjusts the calculation of the 20-mill floor, which is critical for determining the minimum funding for public schools. Additionally, House Bill 309 empowers county budget commissions to reduce tax rates deemed excessive. DeWine emphasized that these measures would prevent significant spikes in property taxes that many homeowners have experienced.
Voting Restrictions and Legislative Context
In conjunction with the property tax measures, DeWine also signed Ohio Senate Bill 293, which eliminates the grace period for absentee ballots. He expressed reluctance in signing this bill, citing concerns over a pending U.S. Supreme Court case that could affect absentee voting rules. DeWine indicated that the decision was made to ensure clarity and avoid confusion leading up to elections. However, the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition criticized the bill, arguing that it would lead to increased provisional ballots and disenfranchisement of eligible voters.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the property tax legislation warn that the cuts could lead to significant revenue losses for schools and local governments, potentially prompting communities to seek tax increases to compensate for the funding shortfall. The Ohio Voter Rights Coalition has also raised concerns about the implications of the voting restrictions, arguing that they undermine the ability of voters to participate freely in elections.
Official Statements
Governor DeWine stated, “These bills bring about meaningful, impactful tax relief that brings about clarity, and no longer will people see the spikes they have seen.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by rising property taxes and warned against a proposed citizen initiative to abolish property taxes entirely, labeling it a “great mistake” that could create a crisis for essential services.
What's Next
The property tax bills will take effect in 90 days, and their implementation will be closely monitored as communities adjust to the changes. The Ohio Voter Rights Coalition and other advocacy groups are likely to continue their efforts to address the implications of the new voting restrictions as the state approaches the next election cycle.
