NFIB/Ohio Legislative Update: Q2 2016

Date: May 31, 2016

We are providing a brief synopsis of legislation that cleared the Ohio Legislature in May 2016.  Theses issues were all part of NFIBOhio’s efforts to help our members own, operate, and grow their businesses.

Unemployment debt repayment – The state of Ohio will pay off the outstanding loan owed to the federal government that was used to pay unemployment claims.  Ohio employers will recognize over $400 million in savings on penalty payments.  This loan will be repaid through a per-employee surcharge in 2017.  Ohio employers will see an estimated $80 per employee savings as a result of this measure. 

Workers’ compensation subrogation – Motor vehicle accidents caused by a third-party where a citation is issued or fault is accepted, and insurance is present, will no longer be charged to an employers’ experience.  This long advocated for fix will prevent employers from having their discount program(s) status jeopardized and premiums potentially spiking. The savings could be thousands of dollars.

Sales tax holiday – Ohio will once again have a three-day sales tax holiday the first weekend in August on certain back-to-school supplies and clothing.  Last year’s holiday was a resounding success according to a university economic study seeing a bump in sales tax receipts and a boon for retailers across Ohio, particularly in border counties. 

Small claims court – The legislature recently doubled the maximum amount of recovery available in small claims court from $3,000 to $6,000.  In lieu of foregoing chasing debt or settling for less, this law will allow for higher recoveries as these venues provide a lower-cost alternative to other levels of courts, as significant savings can be recognized on both filing fees and attorney costs.  This puts Ohio close to the national average for recovery. 

Municipal income tax withholding – An erroneous provision of the municipal tax reform package of 2014 moved quarterly business filers from the last day of the month to the 15th.  This created confusion and led to employers facing penalties for late payments.  This has been corrected and will return to mirror the dates for state tax filings. 

Utility services tax – This antiquated, never-used law, has been repealed.  Counties had the ability to levy a utility services tax of up to 2% on residents and 3% on commercial users.  Although never used, one county proposed saddling its residents with this tax, but reversed course after an immense public outcry.  

Subscribe For Free News And Tips

Enter your email to get FREE small business insights. Learn more

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Learn More

Or call us today
1-800-634-2669

© 2001 - 2024 National Federation of Independent Business. All Rights Reserved. Terms and Conditions | Privacy