Two of the counties in this House district are in the top five in Ohio for job loss (Meigs and Morgan). Ohio leads the nation in the number of 18-34 year-olds leaving the state and there is a long pattern of young people leaving the Appalachian counties in particular. We need to provide incentives and opportunities so young people choose to stay and strengthen our region.

Right now, our system for funding education remains unconstitutional. Last year’s donors to food pantries are standing in line for food this year. This is the legacy that Bob Taft has left Ohio. Governor Ted Strickland is working hard every day to help Ohio recover.

Support to Local Business

To bring jobs to our region, we have to support innovation. People who grow their own businesses have roots here and will stay here, creating assets and wealth for themselves and their employees. We have to invest in the infrastructure, training, and support for local businesses. Research shows that more new jobs are created by people starting small, local businesses. By supporting entrepreneurs, we help create a local economy that is stable for the long haul. Several organizations in our region have been working to offer this kind of support. Debbie Phillips will work to strengthen support and bring resources that meet the needs of new and growing enterprises.

Invest in Clean Energy

Debbie supports Ted Strickland’s proposals to invest in alternative energy as an important sector in Ohio’s economy. Right here in our area, we have a number of innovative companies that are leaders in their fields. We can build on Ohio’s strength in the energy market, and lead the way toward energy independence and a healthy economy. A study by Policy Matters Ohio shows that investment in clean energy could create 22,000 jobs in Ohio. Investing in clean coal, renewable energy, biofuels, and energy efficiency will create jobs in our region, and help improve our quality of life at the same time. The region has already benefited economically by investing in clean energy. A hydrogen fuel cell facility opened this past year in Tuppers Plains, this facility will bring 100 good paying jobs to the region. In Meigs County AEP is slated to begin construction in the near future on a clean coal plant that will bring stable employment to the area. Debbie Phillips will work to ensure that these projects have a home in the region.

Invest in Education

High quality educational opportunities are key to an individual’s success in life. This investment is also critical to our communities and to our state. When we invest in kids on the front end, we reap enormous benefits down the road. Children who are nurtured, challenged, and given the chance to pursue their dreams become adults who contribute to their communities. Young people are leaving Ohio and our region at an alarming rate. Providing students with effective schools and affordable colleges will strengthen Ohio and nurture the talent and creativity needed for a vibrant, 21st century economy.

Fair Taxes

Finally, we have to make these investments with a fair tax base. Since the 1970’s the tax burden has been pushed down onto working and middle-class people. Corporations and wealthy individuals have not been paying their share. Some legislators are already trying to create loopholes in the new CAT tax. Ohio law is riddled with loopholes, exceptions and abatements—billions of dollars every year. Debbie Phillips stands with Governor Strickland in efforts to make the tax code fairer for Ohio’s working familes.

Ohio has been in decline, and it’s time for a change. We need problem-solvers. We need representation that cares more about the people of our area than about the big-money interests. Debbie Phillips will provide leadership to be a part of the solution, as we work to get Ohio back on track.



If you would like to know Debbie's stance on an issue that's not covered here, or need a more specific answer regarding her platform, please CONTACT DEBBIE for clarification.