COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Republican state lawmaker has introduced a proposal that would ask Ohio voters to remove a constitutional prohibition on taxing food and nonalcoholic beverages.
Senate Joint Resolution 9, introduced in the 136th General Assembly by Sen. Louis Blessing, R-Colerain Township, would repeal Section 13 of Article XII of the Ohio Constitution. That section currently prohibits the state from imposing a wholesale excise tax on food and nonalcoholic beverages.
If approved, the measure would go before voters at the Nov. 2, 2027, general election. If adopted by a majority of voters, the constitutional repeal would take effect Jan. 1, 2028.
The joint resolution itself does not create a new tax. Instead, it would eliminate the constitutional barrier that prevents the General Assembly from enacting a wholesale excise tax on food and drinks.
As written, the proposal contains no exceptions. Repealing the provision would open the door for lawmakers to tax food and nonalcoholic beverages without constitutional restriction, should future legislation be enacted.
To advance to the ballot, the measure must secure three-fifths support in both chambers of the legislature. Lawmakers have not yet scheduled committee hearings on the resolution.
Because the proposal seeks to amend the Ohio Constitution, voters would have the final say if the General Assembly approves placing it on the ballot.