8.6 How to Make Your Voice Heard

Citizens have several opportunities to influence the Ohio state operating and capital budgets:

Public Hearings

Committees hold public hearings where citizens can testify about specific budget items. For example, during the debate over the Ohio state budget in 2023, numerous public hearings were held where citizens could express their opinions on proposed cuts to public health funding. These hearings provide a platform for direct citizen input, allowing legislators to hear firsthand how budget decisions impact their constituents.

Contacting Legislators 

Writing letters, making phone calls, or scheduling meetings with legislators is a common way for citizens to advocate for or against budget items. For example, during the 2023 budget process, many Ohioans contacted their representatives to voice their concerns about proposed reductions in education funding. Personal stories and data shared through these contacts can significantly influence legislators’ perspectives and decisions. Engaging directly with legislators ensures that citizens’ voices are heard in the budgetary decision-making process.

Participating in Public Forums 

Public forums hosted by community organizations or local governments offer another venue for discussing the state budget and gathering citizen input. In 2023, several public forums were organized across Ohio to discuss the impact of potential budget cuts on education. These events allowed citizens to voice their concerns, ask questions, and provide suggestions directly to policymakers and other stakeholders.

Engaging with Interest Groups 

Joining or supporting advocacy groups that focus on specific budgetary changes can amplify an individual’s voice. For example, environmental advocacy groups in Ohio mobilized members to oppose budget cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency in the 2023 state budget. These groups often have the resources and expertise to mount effective campaigns and lobby on behalf of their members.

Using Social Media 

Social media platforms are powerful tools for raising awareness and contacting legislators directly. During the 2024 budget process, Ohioans used X and Facebook to organize virtual town halls and tweet at their legislators using hashtags like #SaveOurSchools to advocate for increased education funding. Social media campaigns can quickly mobilize large numbers of people and bring significant attention to specific budget issues.

Participating in the Electoral Process 

Voting for candidates who align with their budget priorities is a fundamental way for citizens to influence the budget process. For example, the 2022 gubernatorial election in Ohio saw debates on budget priorities, with candidates outlining their plans for health care, education, and infrastructure spending. Citizens can impact budget decisions by electing officials who share their views on fiscal policies and priorities.

These various forms of public participation ensure that citizens have multiple avenues to influence the budget process and hold their elected officials accountable for their fiscal decisions.