NW Ohio Times

State Representatives Gary Click and Roy Klopfenstein have reintroduced the Strategic Tax Opportunities for Raising Kids (STORK) Act in Ohio. This legislation, initially presented during the 135th General Assembly, aims to provide tax relief to young families and expectant mothers in the state.

House Bill 87 proposes allowing parents to claim their children as dependents on Ohio income tax filings from the year of conception rather than the year of birth. This change is intended to alleviate some financial pressures faced by expectant families.

"The costs of starting and raising a family begin before childbirth," stated Click. "This bill will provide young, working middle-income families with a tax break they need and deserve."

Data from the Peterson-Kaiser Family Foundation indicates that the average cost of giving birth in the U.S. was $18,856 in 2022. Even those with large group healthcare plans faced an average out-of-pocket expense of $2,854, not including preparation costs for a newborn.

"It’s important that we support young, expectant families and this legislation is a step forward in ensuring Ohio is the best place to raise a family," commented Klopfenstein.

The STORK Act is currently awaiting assignment to a House committee for further consideration.