East Cleveland News

Steve Demetriou, the state representative for Ohio District 35, announced that House Bill 96 offers the largest tax cut in state history by returning $4.2 billion to homeowners. He made this statement on X.

"Ohioans made it clear—they want real property tax relief," said Demetriou, House Representative. "House Bill 96 delivers. Returning $4.2 billion to homeowners. It's a bold step toward restoring balance and fairness in our property tax system."

In April 2025, the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 96, a two-year operating budget that includes a significant property tax relief provision. According to supporters, including House Republicans, the bill mandates that school districts with unspent cash balances exceeding 30% return excess local tax dollars to property owners, aiming to provide over $4 billion in statewide relief. They tout this as the largest property tax cut in Ohio's history. However, critics argue that the measure could undermine public education funding and label it as a "fake and unvetted scheme" that may ultimately raise property tax bills. School administrators have also expressed concerns about potential revenue losses due to the proposed 30% cap on reserves.

House Bill 96 is projected to deliver over $4 billion in property tax relief across Ohio. For example, in House District 72, the estimated relief amounts to $38.1 million. The bill's provision requires school districts with more than 30% in unspent cash balances to return excess funds to property owners, directly impacting homeowners' tax bills. This approach is designed to provide immediate financial relief to taxpayers while addressing concerns about large reserve balances in school districts.

Historically, Ohio has implemented property tax relief measures such as the 10% rollback introduced in 1971 and an additional 2.5% rollback for owner-occupied residential properties in 1979. However, according to proponents of House Bill 96, the $4 billion relief proposed is considered the largest property tax cut in the state's history, surpassing previous efforts both in scale and direct impact on taxpayers. This substantial reduction reflects a significant shift in the state's approach to property tax policy.

Demetriou serves as the representative for Ohio's 35th District and holds the position of House Majority Whip. A U.S. Army veteran awarded the Bronze Star Medal, he has focused his legislative efforts on tax relief, education reform, and supporting veterans. Demetriou has actively advocated for property tax cuts, including voting in favor of House Bill 96 and sponsoring legislation aimed at providing tax relief for seniors and veterans. His policy priorities emphasize fiscal responsibility and empowering Ohio families.