The State of Ohio is a weekly news program spotlighting the latest happenings at the Statehouse, in the Governor’s office, at the Ohio Supreme Court and throughout the Buckeye State. Award-winning host Karen Kasler presents viewers with unique analysis and thoughtful perspective on important issues of statewide interest through interviews with political leaders, newsmakers, experts and Ohio citizens. The State of Ohio is the only TV show to bring to Ohioans the latest news about taxes, voting, education and other critical matters from where it all happens -- Capitol Square.

Friday, February 6, 2009

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It’s been said that Ohio is in the midst of the worst economic situation it’s faced in decades, perhaps since the Great Depression. And after Gov. Strickland’s State of the State speech offers many ideas but few details on plugging a $7 billion projected deficit and financial a huge overhaul in education, this week brought forth one of the most anticipated budgets in recent history. We run down some of the biggest ticket items in the budget, including education, health care and the 2005 tax reforms.

With all this new spending and with a budget deficit that had been projected at more than $7 billion, there were many questions how Gov. Strickland would make all this happen without tax increases, which he had promised he would. The budget contains $3.2 billion in spending cuts, along with 120 fee, fine and penalty increases that will raise an estimated $236 million. And all state employees, from the governor’s office on down, will be asked to take a pay cut.

The budget held some surprises for many people, and others say was they’re seeing and hearing wasn’t totally unexpected. But it’s certainly given two well-known political observers a lot to think about. Brian Rothenberg is from Progress Ohio, and David Zanotti is from the conservative Ohio Roundtable.

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