Warren-Clinton News

The Ohio Senate has given its approval to Amended Substitute House Bill 54, which accounts for an $11 billion allocation for the state's transportation budget over a two-year period. Senator Nathan Manning, representing North Ridgeville, supported the bill, as did his colleagues in the Senate who voted unanimously in favor, 32-0. Subsequently, the House showed overwhelming concurrence with a vote of 87-3. The bill is now on its way to Governor Mike DeWine's desk for signing.

House Bill 54 is set to allocate approximately $400 million each for safety upgrades and the construction of new highways. A notable aspect of the budget is its focus on expanding the authorization for school zones around Educational Service Center preschools, affecting roads under both county and Ohio Department of Transportation jurisdictions. The bill also endorses the usage of alternative vehicles for student transportation and allows passenger vans for extracurricular activities.

Senator Manning expressed his support for the budget, particularly its measures to enhance school and student safety. "I am proud to support this transportation budget, especially its provisions to further support the safety of our schools and students," he stated. He acknowledged the contributions of Lorain County ESC Superintendent Franco Gallo and other superintendents from the 13th District for their role in addressing transportation issues. Manning noted that these improvements would benefit both Lorain County and the state.

Funding for the transportation budget will come from the state's Motor Fuel Tax, commonly known as the gas tax. The 2026-27 budget will not see any increases in gas or diesel taxes, ensuring that Ohioans' earnings at the pump are safeguarded.