Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today issued the following statement regarding House and Senate passage of the state operating budget for fiscal years 2010-2011:

“This bipartisan budget would not be possible without the leadership of legislators willing to make hard choices to move Ohio forward.

“Our people and our businesses are struggling to stay afloat in the midst of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.  This budget protects them from tax increases they simply cannot afford.  And while so many states are giving up on education to get through this recession, we can take heart that in Ohio we are strengthening our commitment to schools.  In doing so, we are sharpening Ohio’s competitive edge and positioning the state for economic recovery and job growth.

“Despite the economic challenges, this budget includes a comprehensive plan to build our education system anew.  For the first time since Ohio’s education system was declared unconstitutional, the legislature has voted to establish a constitutional funding system that utilizes research to identify what students need to be successful.  The comprehensive classroom reforms included in our plan will improve the quality of our teachers, tests, and curriculum.  All schools will meet strict spending accountability standards.  All students will learn the skills that cutting-edge businesses look for in the people they hire.  And our plan will reduce the burden on local property taxes as the evidence based model is phased in.

“I would also like to acknowledge several members of the legislature for their productive work through the budget process and conference committee.  I would like to thank Rep. Vernon Sykes and Rep. Jay Goyal for their leadership on conference committee.  Rep. Steve Dyer for his leadership on education reform.  And Senate Minority Leader Capri Cafaro and Sen. Dale Miller, who were instrumental in bringing the budget to a conclusion.”