❌ SB186
Create a music incubator program, certain sales tax rebates
Summary
The bill establishes a music incubator program that provides sales tax rebates to eligible music venues and festival promoters in Ohio. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including holding a vendor's license and having a dedicated audience capacity. The program will begin accepting applications in September 2026 and is capped at $10 million in rebates per fiscal year.
Rationale
The bill introduces a government program that provides financial incentives to specific industries, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free markets. The LPO's platform explicitly opposes government contracts that create cronyism or require payment above fair market prices, aligning with the bill's provisions for tax rebates.
Risks and Concerns
- Increased government intervention in the music industry
- Potential for cronyism and favoritism in rebate distribution
- Misallocation of taxpayer funds