CONGRESSWOMAN FUDGE DENOUNCES OHIO GOVERNOR'S ATTACK ON FUNDING FOR SCHOOLS, CITIES AND LIBRARIES

"The ax is out. So called, 'Jobs Budget' is a job killer. Our Governor is putting Ohio up for sale and working families will pay the price."

WASHINGTON D.C. - Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) issued the following statement today upon learning of the two year state budget unveiled by Ohio Governor John Kasich.

"I am extremely disappointed that Governor Kasich prefers to balance the state of Ohio budget on the backs of school children, libraries, local governments and public workers. His proposed budget for 2012 and 2013 reduces funding for our schools by $3 billion dollars," said Congresswoman Fudge.

"What's more, every Ohioan should be concerned by the Governor's sleight of hand in claiming this is a 'Jobs Budget' and taxpayers will receive a tax cut.  The budget outline includes crippling cuts to local communities, $1.3 billion less in reimbursement fund payments and a $555 million dollar reduction in the Local Government Fund.  Cuts of that magnitude will certainly lead already strapped communities to reduce services, lay off workers or force them to seek higher tax revenue and fees to meet their obligations."

While realizing the state of Ohio faces a significant budget shortfall, Congresswoman Fudge also expressed concern at the scope of attempts by the Kasich Administration to sell public assets and privatize control of resources that belong to the people of Ohio. "Businesses exist to make a profit and generate a return for their owners and shareholders.  The priority of those entities who acquire public assets is not to share money with the true owners-- the people of Ohio.  Experiments with privatization in other states have often led to more job losses, less accountability and working families picking up the tab."

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