Buckeye State Is a Leader on Tax Reform with Passage of Second-Lowest Flat Tax in the Nation

Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist offered the following statement upon the final passage of the 2026-27 Ohio budget, H.B. 96: 

“The newly-passed Ohio budget is a historic, landmark win that secures the Buckeye State’s place as a national leader on tax reform, saving taxpayers more than $1 billion. 

“The headline achievement is a 2.75% flat income tax rate that simplifies the code and makes it harder to raise taxes. That’s the second-lowest flat rate in the nation, and the lowest rate in the Midwest currently. 

“The legislature consistently defended taxpayers and Ohio businesses, rejecting damaging tax hikes. Proposals to drastically increase taxes on sports betting and vapes were sidelined that would have made Ohio completely out-of-step with fellow red states.  

“This outstanding, pro-taxpayer budget is only possible thanks to many diligent, conservative legislators, and impressive leadership in Senate President Rob McColley, Speaker Matt Huffman, House Finance Chair Brian Stewart, and Senate Finance Chair Jerry Cirino. 

“The flat tax is a tremendous achievement, and yet just one of many wins on tax and regulatory reform that Ohio has accomplished in recent years. The Buckeye State is on a roll and setting a winning example for the nation.”