Senator Joe Uecker (R–Miami Township) announced the passage of Senate Joint Resolution 6 from the Ohio Senate today. This legislation seeks to renew the State Capital Improvement Program (SCIP). The partnership between SCIP and the Ohio Public Works Commission finances public capital improvements to preserve and improve public infrastructure in communities across Ohio.
“As of the last year of reported data, over 11,500 projects have been funded through the State Capital Improvement Program,” Said Uecker. “Approval of this legislation is fundamental to improving the State of Ohio.”
The SCIP was originally put before voters and passed in 1987. It has been subsequently put on the ballot by the General Assembly and passed by voters in 1995 and 2005. Senate Joint Resolution 6 asks voters to approve a 10-year renewal of the program that would increase the bond funding levels.
In total, the Ohio Senate asks voters to approve $1.875 billion of investment that will directly benefit local governments and communities. These infrastructure dollars will work to continue the program’s proven track record of creating jobs, improving the quality of life, and in many cases, ensuring public health and safety for years to come.
“Available funds through the program allowed us to create the Clermont County Emergency Operation Center,” Said County Commissioner, Ed Humphrey. “We have been able to use the center during times of disaster, allowing all agencies to come together and coordinate efforts to support emergency services needed in the field.”
Section 17, article VIII of the Ohio Constitution limits state debt to just 5 percent of the General Revenue Fund.
The resolution now proceeds to the Ohio House of Representatives where it must also receive approval before being placed on the May 2014 ballot.