Ohio Governor John Kasich gave final approval Monday to sweeping budget review legislation that includes expanded tax cuts and credits and major new restrictions on new wind turbines in the state.
Kasich, speaking at a signing ceremony held at a food bank in suburban Columbus, praised the tax cuts, as well as funding for issues such as mental health services.
Among the changes outlined by House Bill 483:
Ohioans will see larger one-year income and business tax cuts
State taxpayers will get a 10-percent cut on this year’s income taxes, up from 9 percent previously approved.
Small businesses will be able to deduct 75 percent of their income up to $250,000 in 2014, up from a 50-percent deduction in previous law.
Earned income tax credits and personal tax exemptions will expand
Ohio’s Earned Income Tax Credit will double, from 5 percent to 10 percent of the federal credit. Personal income tax exemptions will increase as well.
New restrictions could cripple wind farm construction in the state
Under House Bill 483, wind turbines will have to be at least 1,300 feet or so — depending on blade length — from a property line.
Legislative proponents of the measure say it will ensure that property owners aren’t disturbed by noise, shadows, or falling ice from a neighboring turbine. But the wind energy industry claims the restrictions are so strict, they will bring a halt to any new wind farm construction in Ohio.
There’s now more funding for many social service programs
HB 483 includes $10 million for adult protective services, as well as $47.5 million in new money toward crisis intervention and treating mental illness and addiction.
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