Support government efficiency study and tax freeze over massive consolidations, job cuts

Nov. 3, 2009 - With a troubled economy and persistent budget shortfalls, state legislators are beginning to put forth bills that could impact Ohio's spending, operations, customers, and employees.

OCSEA supports newly introduced legislation (House Bill 343) that would commission a government study to identify efficiency opportunities, while working to preserve and maximize current levels of public services.

The study also would examine the number of supervisors-to-workers and make recommendations. OCSEA’s long-held position is that the ratios in many agencies are tilted heavily toward management.

HB 343 was introduced last week by State Rep. Mark Schneider.

Union leaders are also supporting the governor's proposal to freeze the last part of a progressive income tax cut, House Bill 318.

Not all ideas are beneficial, however, warn union leaders.

In fact, OCSEA outright opposes Senate Bill 52, a proposal that would consolidate 24 cabinet level agencies into 10 and slice 11,000 state employee positions. This legislation does neither saves money or addresses the service needs of Ohioans. In fact, such massive restructuring would cost tax payers more money up front.

OCSEA President Eddie L. Parks is encouraging union members to urge legislators to stop the massive consolidation bill (SB 52), and instead support the tax freeze (HB 318) and the government efficiency study (HB 343).

See Related

HB 343 Summary

About SB 52's agency consolidation plan

About HB 318

OCSEA opposes substitute budget bill, reiterates support for governor’s tax freeze