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Legislators unveil plans to stimulate state economy

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Staff Report Updated 12:26 PM Monday, September 21, 2009

CINCINNATI — Area state lawmakers today unveiled proposals by Ohio House Republicans to spur economic development.

Rep. Peter Stautberg (R-Cincinnati) today, Sept. 21, was joined by other members of the House Republican Caucus. They included Reps. Lou Blessing (R-Cincinnati), Ron Maag (R-Lebanon), Robert Mecklenborg (R-Cincinnati), Joe Uecker (R-Loveland), and Tim Derickson (R-Oxford).

The group revealed extensive plans to bring about job creation and industry growth, officials said.

The announcement worked in conjunction with four other news conferences across the state, and was conducted to address the failure of the House Economic Development Committee to meet on a regular basis.

“The House has taken only small steps toward creating jobs,” Derickson said. “We need leaders who are willing to make important decisions during these difficult times. The Economic Development Committee has neglected its primary objective—to identify solid strategies to improve the economy.”

Frustrated with inaction on the part of Gov. Ted Strickland and the Economic Development Committee, Republican members engaged in discussions with the local business community for ideas to revamp Ohio’s economy. Based on their findings from market research and conversations with constituents, the House Republicans created a package of proposals that were announced at the press conferences and will be introduced in the coming weeks.

Among the 10 bills are proposals to offer employer tax credits to hire unemployed Ohioans and to grant income tax credits for college graduates who remain in Ohio, officials said. Together, these bills are designed to provide resources to small businesses, offer incentives for businesses and young people to remain in Ohio, and track Ohio’s progress in rebuilding its economy, officials said.

“Based on the conversations Republicans had with the business community during summer recess, the first step toward improving Ohio’s economy is building from the ground up,” Maag said. “We can’t apply a quick fix to a deepening problem. Instead, we hope to create a better business environment and draw new opportunities to the state. The economy will improve as a result of these industry-friendly initiatives.”

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