Ohio Voters to Decide on State Capital Improvement Program Renewal in May

Ohio voters will soon decide whether to extend taxpayer-funded loans and grants for essential infrastructure projects, as the State Capital Improvement Program (SCIP) faces reauthorization in May.

Both the state House and Senate have approved House Joint Resolution 8 and Senate Joint Resolution 4, paving the way for a constitutional amendment on the May ballot. The amendment seeks to reauthorize SCIP under the Ohio Public Works Commission.

Vital Infrastructure Funding

Since its creation in 1987, the program has provided low-interest loans and grants for projects critical to Ohio’s infrastructure, including:

• Roads and bridges
• Freshwater treatment and distribution
• Wastewater collection and treatment
• Storm sewer systems
• Solid waste disposal facilities

The program has been renewed with bipartisan support three times—in 1995, 2005, and 2014—and has funded 19,000 grants and loans across all 88 Ohio counties.

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Economic and Infrastructure Benefits

If approved, the reauthorization would allocate $250 million annually, totaling $2.5 billion over a 10-year period (fiscal years 2027-2036). Supporters project the renewal would create approximately 35,000 construction jobs statewide.

“In May, voters will have the opportunity to reauthorize this popular program, as they have over the last 37 years,” said Sen. Hearcel Craig, D-Columbus. “The funding ensures municipalities and water sanitary districts across Ohio can meet basic infrastructure needs.”

Broad Support

State leaders emphasize the program’s importance for Ohio’s economy and quality of life. “Investing in critical infrastructure spurs economic development and continues to make Ohio the best place to work, live, and raise a family,” said Rep. Scott Oelslager, R-North Canton.

The joint resolution will be filed with the secretary of state, officially placing it on the May ballot. If approved, SCIP will continue enhancing infrastructure while creating jobs and supporting local governments across Ohio.

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keelee-mccain

Keelee McCain is a junior at Weber High School. This is her second year on staff, this year as Assistant to the Chief. She does have a life (probably) but she can't think of anything to write in here, so she's probably just going to ramble now. She has an orange cat who she likes better than any human. If you see her being quiet or not sitting on top of a desk, there is something very wrong. In her free time she enjoys harassing her favorite teachers and sleeping. Her life plans include making it through high school and leaving. Happy lifeing.

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