The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to incorporate fixed-sum levies into the calculation of a school district's millage floor and to authorize these levies under specific conditions. It introduces new sections 5705.195, 5705.196, and 5705.197, while amending existing sections 319.301, 323.32, 5705.01, 5705.03, 5705.194, and 5709.92. The amendments clarify property tax definitions and calculations, particularly regarding taxes levied for specific purposes, and outline how the tax commissioner will determine tax reduction factors that affect school district levies. The bill also deletes certain references to tax sections and establishes new language to ensure that fixed-sum levies are included in overall tax calculations, thereby aiding school districts in managing their funding.

Additionally, the bill provides provisions for school districts in fiscal distress or affected by disaster declarations to propose additional tax levies for current expenses, requiring certification of resolutions to the director of education and workforce for approval. It clarifies definitions related to fiscal caution, watch, and emergency, and allows for the renewal of existing taxes approved by voters before January 1, 2026. The bill outlines procedures for submitting tax questions to voters, including necessary timelines and publication requirements, and mandates that the county auditor certifies annual levy amounts. Furthermore, it addresses the distribution of payments to school districts affected by property transfers and levy losses, ensuring equitable reimbursements and supplemental payments for districts with nuclear power plants during specified fiscal years. The bill also repeals several existing sections of the Revised Code, with certain amendments taking effect for tax year 2026 and beyond.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 319.301, 5705.314
As Reported By House Committee: 319.301, 323.32, 5705.01, 5705.03, 5705.194, 5709.92
As Passed By House: 319.301, 323.32, 5705.01, 5705.03, 5705.194, 5709.92
As Reported By Senate Committee: 319.301, 323.32, 5705.01, 5705.03, 5705.194, 5709.92
As Passed By Senate: 319.301, 323.32, 5705.01, 5705.03, 5705.194, 5709.92
As Enrolled: 319.301, 323.32, 5705.01, 5705.03, 5705.194, 5709.92