voters guide 2004
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Issue 1: Jobs for Ohio (Third Frontier)

Issue 1 Certified Ballot Language

Issue 1Ballot Board Explanation

Issue 1Ballot Board Argument FOR

Issue 1 Ballot Board Argument AGAINST

League Explanation:

Placed on the ballot by the General Assembly, this proposal pairs an infrastructure bond program with economic development funding to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. It would declare that local government public infrastructure, financial support for research and development and development of sites and facilities in Ohio that support industry and commerce are “public purposes,” so that government grants and loans can be made to private businesses, research organizations, and educational institutions for development purposes.

The amendment would authorize the state to issue general obligation bonds of up to $1.35 billion for local government capital improvements to infrastructure (this portion is a renewal of a 1995 amendment); $500 million to provide financial assistance through state and local government and state-supported and state-assisted institutions of higher education for research and development (similar Third Frontier funding is currently provided through the General Assembly); and $150 million for state use to develop job-ready sites and facilities in Ohio. It authorizes the legislature to pass laws providing for implementation, including issuing and paying for the bonds.

This amendment would overrule the prohibition against the state government or any local government investing in private companies.

 

League Pros:

  1. This amendment would provide a much-needed influx of funding for the infrastructure needs of local governments, including repair of roads and bridges and water and wastewater facilities.
  2. Bond money will aid in transforming Ohio’s economy from its emphasis on heavy manufacturing to a more high-tech, knowledge-based economy.
  3. Creating job-ready sites will speed job creation at a time when Ohio is struggling with unemployment.
  4. Accountability is to be ensured in the enabling legislation, including limits on the use of eminent domain.

League Cons:

  1. This amendment would override current Ohio constitutional protections against state and local governments giving away public tax dollars to benefit private business interests. The private market, not the government, should finance research and development.
  2. In repaying the bonds, legislators lose flexibility in allocating funds for other state services that may be more urgent.
  3. Proponents of the amendment anticipate that research and development funds will leverage private sector and federal investment dollars, but there is no requirement in the amendment itself that funding be matched or supplemented.

 

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