New Ohio Legislature Has Democrat Heading House

COLUMBUS, Ohio—A new Ohio legislature officially opens its session with the Democrats in charge of the House for the first time in 14 years.

New House Speaker Armond Budish of Beachwood addressed lawmakers Monday afternoon. Democrats gained seven seats in the November election to take a 53-46 House majority.

“The people of Ohio are hurting. We face huge problems. We are hemorrhaging jobs. Businesses and young people are leaving the state,“ Budish said.

Republicans maintained a 21-12 advantage in the Ohio Senate, still led by Senate President Bill Harris of Ashland. The Senate will be the GOP’s one opportunity to slow down Democratic legislative priorities.

In the first half of 2009, lawmakers will craft a two-year state budget. The budget process is likely to be one of the most difficult in modern times because of a projected $7.3 billion deficit resulting from the economic downturn.
Addressing school funding issues were also named among the priorities for the first half of 2009.

New Sen. Jimmy Stewart making the transition from House the Senate said he is focused on the $52 billion budget that needs passed. He said he has a personal agenda of working on MRDD related issues in the first term.

“These are important investments that we’re going to have to choose between as far as where we’re going to spend taxpayer money,“ he said.

Rep. John Carney, a new representative in the House said he has a way to address some of the workforce development needs the state has.  He said Ohio should be using public schools as a place for development programs, adding that his focus is also on passing the budget.

“I think we can use our public schools as a place to do workforce development. After hours, adults can go and utilize educational resources to help them get a job,“ he said.

Budish said his vision will change and evolve as he talks with legislators, saying he wants to see new tax credits and incentives for start-up businesses and compacts with other cities to help build commerce.

He also said he wants Ohio to become the green collar jobs leader and a high quality education for students.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.