Summary
Ohio lawmakers are considering a bill called the "Invest in Marriage Act," which would give tax credits to businesses offering bonuses to employees who get married. The goal is to encourage family growth as the state's birth rates decline. The bill is currently under review by the Ohio House Ways and Means Committee.
Key Facts
- The "Invest in Marriage Act" was introduced by Republican Representative Josh Williams.
- Employers would get a $1,000 tax credit per employee receiving a marriage bonus, with a limit of $50,000 per year.
- Bonuses are for employees who provide marriage licenses, but government and nonprofit employers can't get the credit.
- The bill aims to increase family formations due to declining birth rates in Ohio.
- Ohio's birth rate is 56.4 births per 1,000 women, slightly above the national average.
- Ohio could lose $13.8 million to $34.4 million in revenue due to the tax credit.
- The bill is part of a broader "family first" agenda, including other proposals like paternity tests and a "Natural Family Month."
- The bill is currently in the Ohio House Ways and Means Committee.
