Senate Finance
The Senate Finance Committee met today for their final hearing regarding HB96 (Operating Budget). After reviewing over 4,200 amendments, the committee adopted the singular omnibus amendment that can be found [here].
OAGC is frustrated by the continued removal of Gifted Professional Development Funds in this version of the budget.
HB96 will now be sent to the Senate for their final vote after which the House and Senate will convene their conference committee before sending their budget to Governor DeWine’s desk.
Senate Education
The Senate Education Committee reconvened for the first time since mid-May to hear from Diane Allen, Director Dackin’s pick for deputy director of the Division of Primary and Secondary Education. Allen is a retired Marysville Exempted Village Schools superintendent. The committee has favorably reported Allen to a full Ohio Senate vote. It is expected that Allen will begin her role in July.
The committee also heard the first hearing for HB114 (Kindergarten Admission Age Requirements) from both Representatives Bird and Ritter. Senator Ingram asked the authors of the bill about early entrance to kindergarten language and suggested that they amend the bill further to clarify that districts should have early entrance to kindergarten plans in place. Senator Ingram said the current language is ambiguous enough that a parent could recommend their child for early entrance to kindergarten and recommended the authors make changes to ensure that doesn’t happen.