Since Friday, June 19th, when Governor Strickland announced during a press conference his proposed cuts to libraries in the state budget, my colleagues and I have heard an overwhelming amount of concerns expressed by our constituents. I share these views and I am very worried about the impact these funding cuts will have on all residents who use libraries to borrow materials, use the computers to search for employment, and the employees who may be laid off. There are a great number of details to work out during the state budget process, and by voicing your concern, you are helping me make the decision that is best for the 86th House District.

During the 126th General Assembly, I served as a member of the Local Government and Library Revenue Distribution Task Force. It was the primary focus of this Task Force to reach a bipartisan agreement as to how these entities would receive state funding. The consensus was to allow libraries and local governments to receive a percentage of all state revenues, rather than a percentage of only some state revenues, as was previously practiced. In good economic times, libraries and the local bodies of government would benefit from increased state revenue. Conversely, they would follow suit as the state was tightening its budget in poor economic times.

I am of the opinion that it is the states duty to honor the commitment that was made to our libraries and local governments three years ago. While some additional funding cuts may be necessary, to cut them at such draconian levels would not be in our best interest. I believe libraries play an essential role in keeping the public informed and educated. In addition, they provide services that many either do not have access to or cannot afford during these difficult economic times. Due to massive layoffs in our region of the state, many people have turned to our local libraries to search for employment, to post resumes, and to search for other vital information needed to find employment.  The budget is now being discussed in the six-member, legislative conference committee. While I do not sit on this committee, I will certainly continue to monitor any development on this issue.

If you feel so inclined, I would encourage you to contact Governor Strickland’s office directly to express your displeasure with his proposed cuts to libraries. His office can be reached by dialing (614) 466-3555 or online by completing a contact form on his website: http://www.governor.ohio.gov.  It is important that Governor Strickland hears directly from the people he will be impacting by these devastating cuts. 

I am listening to all of my constituent’s concerns and am receptive of their needs. Please be assured that when I vote on these proposals that I will do so with your views in mind. If I may be of assistance with this or any other state related issue, please do not hesitate to contact me at (614) 466-3506 or by mail at State Representative David T. Daniels, 77 S. High Street, 10th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215. You may also email me at District86@ohr.state.oh.us.