The new year brings changes to laws across Ohio that can impact things like your paycheck to your travel plans.
As of January 1, 2020, the minimum wage for non-tipped employees in Ohio has raised from $8.55 to $8.70 per hour, a 15-cent increase. Tipped employees’ base pay has gone from $4.30 to $4.35 an hour.
This year also brings an increase to registration fees of electric/hybrid vehicles. Owners will pay a $200 fee to register an electric car and a $100 yearly registration fee for a hybrid.
“The funds go to the exact same place as the motor fuel tax, road and bridge maintenance and repair,” according to Matt Bruning with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). “Until now, drivers of electric vehicles have paid nothing toward upkeep of the road system they use. Hybrid drivers have paid only with the gasoline they use.”
In February, teachers can deduct up to $250 a year on state income taxes. That is on top of federal deductions. If married couples are both teachers and file jointly, they can each claim up to $250, for a possible $500 total. The following expenses will count toward the deduction: books, supplies and materials used in the classroom, professional development classes, computers, software, and tech services, athletic equipment (for physical education and health instructors).
In April, shoppers who use feminine hygiene products will start to see the change in price as lawmakers have repealed the “pink tax” on feminine hygiene products. Ohio is the 16th state to repeal the tax on pads and tampons.
In July, drivers are only required to have one license plate on their vehicle. According to reports, this will save the state $1.5 million. This new law is already being challenged by some lawmakers. Law enforcement agencies reportedly do not like the law because it could make it harder to identify vehicles, especially at intersections equipped with license plate readers.
In October, standard driver’s licenses and state ID cards will not be recognized for boarding a plane. Travelers will need the updated card or another compliant ID, like a passport or military ID. Noncompliant licenses and IDs can still be used for driving and voting.
