If you have a monthly gym membership, a newly-introduced bill could help you towards your fitness and financial goals.

State Senator Al Cutrona (District 33) submitted the "Make Ohio Healthy Again" bill to the clerk's office Tuesday, which would offer Ohioans a maximum $1,500 annual state deduction on personal income tax for gym memberships.

He tells 21 News in a statement, "Prioritizing the health and wellbeing of Ohioans is not just a matter of personal responsibility, but a collective commitment to building a stronger, healthier state. By proposing legislation that offers incentives to individuals who make their health a priority, we create a supportive environment where wellness is both achievable and celebrated. It’s time to invest in the future of our people—because a healthier Ohio means a more prosperous Ohio. This legislation will provide a tax deduction up to $1,500 for gym and personal trainer memberships."

Owner of Body Shop Total Fitness, Mike Stanec, says he would expect to see more people joining his gym and others if the bill would pass. He adds that tight budgets are often the reason behind cancelling memberships- especially at times when inflation is high.

"I've had multiple people tell me over the years that's their reason for cancelling, that they don't want to but they just can't afford it," Stanec says.

At the same time, it's unclear how far the perk would ultimately go for someone who can not currently afford to go to the gym. That's because the measure is proposed as a tax deduction rather than a credit, which would match the cost of the gym membership up to 100%.

"with Ohio being a pretty low income tax state, it's gonna have some effect, it might help people out 50 bucks, if they have enough tax liability at all," Tax29's Andrew Reigstad explains, adding that the total will be different on an individual situational basis.

The bill is expected to face a senate committee next week.