DeWine Uses State of State to Urge Gas Tax Increase for Infrastructure Investments

Appearing before a joint session of the Ohio House and Senate on Tuesday, Governor Mike DeWine used the occasion of his first State of the State Address to press lawmakers to enact a responsible increase to the motor fuel tax in order to fund infrastructure improvements.

The governor sounded traditional themes: children’s initiatives, opioid abuse prevention and recovery, workforce preparedness, and water quality.

On the subject of water, the governor announced his budget bill will include the creation of a new state fund, “H2-Ohio Fund” to invest in targeted solutions to ensure safe and clean water all across the State of Ohio.

Regarding energy, DeWIne said, “Mr. Speaker, I share your interest in making sure that the air we breathe is as clean as it can be. I look forward to working with you and all the members of the General Assembly on an all-the-above energy strategy for our state that not only will ensure that Ohio’s economy remains competitive, but that also generates clean electricity that lights our homes and powers our businesses.”