COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio House of Representatives voted Wednesday to concur with Senate changes to a sweeping two-year transportation budget, advancing legislation that will steer over $11.4 billion into road construction, maintenance, and public safety improvements across the state.

Substitute House Bill 54, covering fiscal years 2026 and 2027, now heads to the governor’s desk. The bill funds highway projects, provides support for local and regional transportation efforts, and includes policy changes aimed at vehicle regulations and infrastructure oversight.

According to lawmakers, the bill sets aside funding for both major construction projects and routine maintenance needs, while also addressing workforce mobility and long-term infrastructure planning.

Infrastructure and economic development

The bill includes:

  • $393 million for new highway construction
  • Over $4.1 billion for highway system maintenance, including bridge repairs and culvert inspections
  • $13.5 million annually to continue the Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership, which supports public transportation in both rural and urban areas
  • $9 million each year for Transportation Improvement Districts, which combine transportation investment with local economic development

The legislation also establishes a Division of Advanced Air Mobility within the Ohio Department of Transportation, intended to explore future transportation technologies.

Public safety and local support

Sub. H.B. 54 includes $382 million over the biennium for road safety upgrades, such as intersection improvements and traffic control systems.

Other provisions in the bill include:

  • A directive for ODOT to assist villages with snow removal, mowing, and road salt under certain conditions
  • Authorization for schools to use smaller passenger vehicles for student transportation
  • A requirement for BMV customers to show proof of U.S. citizenship during a transaction—or have done so previously—in order to be offered voter registration services
  • An earmark of $3 million per year for Regional Transportation Planning Organizations
  • Removal of a legal requirement that contractors indemnify railroad companies in certain construction scenarios

The bill passed with bipartisan support and is considered the primary funding mechanism for Ohio’s transportation infrastructure over the next two fiscal years.

Once signed by the governor, the legislation will take effect ahead of the state’s next budget cycle.