Kasich sets Feb. 2 for release of 2-year Ohio operating budget

COLUMBUS (AP) — Gov. John Kasich’s administration has set a date for releasing Ohio’s next state budget.

The Office of Budget and Management website lists Feb. 2 as the date the Republican governor will deliver to lawmakers his spending blueprint for the next two years beginning July 1.

Kasich will use the document to outline budget and policy priorities as he enters his second term. He’s signaled an interest in reducing Ohio’s income and small-business taxes; extending efforts to dovetail job-creation, education and workforce development programs; and funding social programs.

Under state law, the governor develops the budget, which is introduced in the Ohio House. The House debates and passes its version, then sends it to the Ohio Senate. After Senate approval, differences are worked out in a conference committee.