AFP–OH Testifies in Support of Key Legislative Reforms to Strengthen Fiscal Responsibility and Protect Taxpayers

Oct 15, 2025 by AFP

Columbus, OH – Americans for Prosperity–Ohio (AFP–OH) this week submitted testimony before two Ohio House committees in support of legislation advancing long-term fiscal stability and meaningful taxpayer protections.

State Director Donovan O’Neil testified before the House Public Insurance and Pensions Committee in support of House Bill 280, sponsored by State Reps. Abrams and Halls, which strengthens the financial footing of the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund. Legislative Director Hannah Kubbins also provided proponent testimony to the House Ways and Means Committee on House Bill 186, a measure to limit property tax growth and enhance transparency for Ohio taxpayers.

“These bills share a common theme: ensuring government lives within its means and builds systems that are stable, transparent, and accountable,” said Donovan O’Neil, AFP-OH State Director. “HB 280 acknowledges the true cost of our commitments and replaces political guesswork with actuarial reality, while HB 186 makes sure Ohio families can plan for the future without fearing unpredictable tax spikes. Together, these efforts represent responsible governance and long-term protection for taxpayers.”

Highlights from AFP–OH’s Testimonies:

House Bill 280 (Pension Reform):
AFP–OH called the measure a “sobering but necessary reform” that ties employer contributions to actuarial performance, ensuring the solvency of the Police and Fire Pension Fund for generations to come. O’Neil noted that the legislation “reduces risk for taxpayers by establishing predictable, data-driven adjustments” and “keeps promises to police and firefighters by ensuring their benefits are fully funded.”
House Bill 186 (Property Tax Relief):
AFP–OH expressed strong support for the bill’s permanent cap on school district property tax increases, linking growth to the rate of inflation. Kubbins highlighted that HB 186 “balances the needs of taxpayers and school districts” while advancing AFP’s principles of broad-based, low-rate, transparent taxation. The bill also introduces new requirements for local governments to publish effective tax rates and payment deadlines, improving transparency and accountability.

View photos from the testimonies here:

Through continued engagement at the Statehouse, AFP–OH is working to advance reforms that make government more accountable and ensure Ohio remains a place where families and small businesses can thrive.