(The Center Square) – Ohioans who join a gym to get healthier might pay less on their taxes.
A new bill in the state Senate would give a personal income tax deduction of up to $1,500 for an individual gym membership and personal fitness training.
Sen. Al Cutrona, R-Canfield, wants to use the deduction as an incentive for Ohioans to become more active and live a healthier lifestyle.
“Obesity can be directly correlated to a lack of physical exercise, and many individuals do not have the financial means to make that shift in their life. This legislation will reward Ohioans for making that healthy switch,” Cutrona told the Senate Ways and Means Committee at the bill’s first hearing earlier this week.
A 2024 study by U.S. News and World Report ranked Ohio among the top 10 states for obesity rates.
Ohio was sixth with an obesity rate of 38%, well above the national average of 33.9%. West Virginia was the worst at 41.3%. Colorado was the best at 24.9%.
Cutrona said obesity can be linked to several health conditions and increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, stroke and some cancers.
Cutrona told the committee he did not have the cost to the state for the deduction but said he would have others speak at subsequent hearings that would explain how much the state would save through health care costs.
He also said the personal training option would give parents the opportunity to use the deduction for children who receive athletic training.
Sen. Bill Demora, D-Columbus, raised concerns the deduction is higher than most gym memberships and would lead to gyms raising prices.
Cutrona explained the bill provides a tax deduction rather than a dollar-for-dollar tax credit.
