Legislators named 'watchdogs of the treasury'

Five Republican state lawmakers from the Cincinnati area were named "Watchdogs of the Treasury" today by United Conservatives of Ohio.

State Sen. Patricia Clancy of Colerain Township, Sen. Robert Schuler of Cincinnati, Sen. Tom Niehaus of New Richmond, Rep. Bill Seitz of Green Township and Rep. Jim Raussen of Sprindale were among 21 state legislators given the award for 2005-2006 by the Sharonville-based group.

The award goes to state lawmakers who demonstrate a commitment to wise state spending and conservative fiscal policy.

To choose recipients for the award, the group evaluates each state legislator’s voting record on issues they deemed "most indicative of the conservative point of view."

"I am honored to receive this award and will use it as added motivation to continue to fight for responsible fiscal policy in the Senate," Clancy said.

While helping shape the 2005-2006 state budget, the legislators voted to hold state spending to its lowest growth level in 40 years and avert double-digit spending increases in the Medicaid program.

The legislators also are credited with crafting or supporting a tax reform package that included a 21 percent across-the-board income tax cut for all Ohioans while eliminating certain state business taxes that discouraged productivity and job growth.