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Policy Matters Ohio
Building a Strong Coalition in Ohio

Policy Matters Ohio, a research and advocacy group founded in 2000, is helping to lead the fight for an Earned Income Tax Credit in Ohio. But it will hardly be working alone. In 2009, Policy Matters will be making its case to state lawmakers as part of a diverse and newly strengthened statewide coalition representing a broad swath of Ohioans interested in creating a fairer and more equitable state tax system.

The statewide coalition includes at least five regional coalitions dedicated to providing free tax-preparation services for low-income taxpayers. The members of these tax-prep coalitions have a deep understanding of the needs of low-income taxpayers. And they are a valuable part of the coalition’s advocacy effort as they can generate grassroots support for a state EITC and provide on-the-ground testimonials to legislators about the need for tax relief for hardworking families.

Along with the tax-preparation groups, the statewide coalition receives strong support from a range of active organizations, including the Center for Community Solutions, Ohio Voices for Children, ACORN, the Children’s Defense Fund and the Ohio United Way and its local affiliates. Among those groups, Policy Matters Ohio plays a key role by producing regular reports that are designed to educate lawmakers about the value of a state EITC. Policy Matters’ staff members also meet with state legislators to explain the impact of federal and state EITCs, stressing the financial boost these credits generate in Ohio communities.

The statewide coalition also is fortunate to have the strong support of a leading Ohio official, Richard Cordray, the current state Treasurer who will become Ohio Attorney General in 2009. His leadership will ensure the issue will have high visibility in the months ahead.

David Rothstein, the lead researcher on tax policy issues for Policy Matters Ohio, has spearheaded the statewide EITC work and helped build the coalition.

“We have developed a really strong statewide coalition,” Rothstein says. “The breadth and knowledge of our members, as well as the support we’re getting from state and local elected officials, will help us make a persuasive case to the legislature.”