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Several new Ohio laws will reshape the state’s tax code, public safety protocols, and educational standards beginning New Year’s Day.
While some of these new Ohio laws introduce minor administrative adjustments, others—like a major income tax overhaul—will be felt by nearly every resident in the state.
Flat tax era begins for Ohio residents
The most significant financial change involves the state’s transition to a flat income tax rate. Starting January 1, 2026, Ohio will implement a single 2.75-percent tax rate on income for most earners. This will effectively consolidate the previous bracket system.
According to the Ohio Department of Taxation, this reduction is the final phase of a multi-year plan championed by the General Assembly. The aim is to simplify filing and reduce the tax burden. Proponents argue this will make Ohio more competitive with neighboring states.
However, critics have raised concerns about the impact on state revenue services.
RELATED: Ohio minimum wage increase set for Jan. 2026 as inflation adjustment takes effect
Crackdown on intoxicating hemp products
A major shift in cannabis regulation also arrives in early 2026. Following the passage of Senate Bill 56 in December 2025, a ban on “intoxicating hemp” products will take full effect by March.
Reported by The Columbus Dispatch, this legislation closes a loophole. It had allowed gas stations and convenience stores to sell unregulated Delta-8 and other hemp-derived THC products.
Under the new Ohio laws, these items must be sold exclusively through licensed marijuana dispensaries. They will be subjected to the same strict testing and age verification rules as recreational cannabis.
Governor Mike DeWine, who signed the bill just weeks ago, emphasized that the goal is to keep psychoactive substances out of the hands of children.
Public safety and law enforcement updates
Several public safety measures signed in late 2025 will activate in the first quarter of 2026.
One notable addition is “Keith’s Law” (House Bill 144), which takes effect on January 19, 2026. This law updates the state’s communication disability database. It allows individuals with diagnosed communication barriers to voluntarily register with the state. This information will be available to law enforcement officers during traffic stops, intended to reduce misunderstandings and de-escalate potential conflicts.
Additionally, House Bill 23 creates a new “Escaped Convict Alert” program. Effective in March 2026, this system will function similarly to an AMBER Alert, notifying residents in the immediate vicinity if a dangerous prisoner escapes custody.
Changes coming to Ohio classrooms
Education remains a focal point for legislators, with new mandates rolling out for the 2025-2026 school year.
State law now requires enhanced training for special education teachers regarding the “Science of Reading.” By September 2026, special education educators in grades 4-12 must complete professional development courses grounded in evidence-based literacy instruction.
This follows a statewide push to move away from “balanced literacy” methods. These methods have fallen out of favor in recent years.
Furthermore, House Bill 57, effective in January, mandates that schools adopt specific policies regarding the administration of overdose reversal drugs. This ensures that staff are prepared for medical emergencies on campus.
Administrative and election reforms
Voters and civic workers will also see adjustments. Senate Bill 158 adds new judicial positions in specific counties to handle increased caseloads. Voters will decide several judicial seats later this year.
Meanwhile, tweaks to election administration, specifically regarding how the state approves voter registration systems, standardize the voting process across all 88 counties before the 2026 midterm elections.
As these changes take effect, residents should review how the new tax rates and safety regulations affect their daily lives.
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