In another move that would limit the influence of organized labour in the state, Ohio Gov. John Kasich has proposed exempting universities from a requirement that they pay union-level wages on construction projects.
The plan is part of the governor's two-year budget plan as the state faces an US$8 billion shortfall.
The budget announcement comes as Kasich has voiced his support for a much contested bill that would restrict the collective bargaining rights of state employees. It has passed the Senate and is now before the House.
The governor's budget proposal also would increase funding to K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and allow more charter schools, which receive state funding but are operated by private groups.
AP