This week, the Ohio Senate voted 30-0 to approve its version of the state’s two-year, $11 billion transportation budget (House Bill 23). Because the Senate version omits key provisions included in the House-approved bill — including a $1 billion rural highway fund — the bill will now go to a conference committee to negotiate the chambers’ differences. The transportation budget appropriates gas tax revenue for priorities such as highway construction, bridge repairs, and other projects, including the Brent Spence Bridge in Cincinnati. HB 23 also includes new railroad safety measures. This 48-page document compares the House- and Senate-approved versions. 3/23/2023