Every two years, the Ohio Governor and Ohio General Assembly work to develop the budget for the state’s programs and various state agencies.

This deliberative process is an ideal opportunity to promote hospitals and health systems as policymakers evaluate and decide on how best to allocate state resources and policy for health care.

Ohio’s biennial state budget impacts both health care delivery and reimbursement in our state.

Ohio’s 2026-2027 Budget

Gov. DeWine’s Executive Budget (FY 2026-2027)

Office of Budget and Management

House Bill 96 – Make state operating appropriations for FY 2026-27

OHA & OCHA Testimony – Ohio House Medicaid Committee (March 4, 2025)

Budget Process Timeline

The 2026-2027 state budget process began when state agencies submitted their budget requests to Ohio’s Office of Budget and Management in fall 2024. Taking into consideration these budget requests, Gov. Mike DeWine announced his executive budget Feb. 3.

Over the next several months, the budget bill makes its way through the legislative process. Once the Ohio General Assembly passes Ohio’s biennial state budget, the bill heads back to the governor for final approval.

Unlike the federal budget, Ohio’s Constitution requires the state to have a balanced budget. This prevents the state from deficit spending.

Ohio’s biennial state budget typically is enacted by July 1 of every odd-numbered year.