The Ohio House and Senate this week passed a negotiated version of the state’s two-year, $13.5 billion transportation budget (House Bill 23). Following a 30-1 Senate vote and 93-2 House vote, the legislation has been sent to Gov. Mike DeWine, who can sign or veto the measure, or sign it with line-item vetos. The final version of the transportation budget authorizes $2.2 billion for pavement projects, $1.5 billion for large infrastructure projects, $717 million for bridges, and $360 million for safety upgrades. Roughly $3 billion is included to improve the Brent Spence Bridge in Cincinnati. The approved measure also contains new railroad safety rules, but does not include the House-approved $1 billion fund for rural highways. 3/30/2023