哥伦布、匹兹堡及各地消息

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine 2 Weeks in Review

For the week ending January 26 2024

Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced that up to 1,100 Ohio K-12 educators will receive computer science training through Teach CS Grants. Of those 1,100, up to 650 will become newly qualified to teach computer science, and the remainder will pursue continuing educational opportunities. A total of $6 million will be awarded to 17 education institutions across the state to cover the costs of this professional development.
   "The demand for tech skills is increasing daily, and more students are seeking computer science classes to prepare them for the future. However, we can’t offer more computer science classes without preparing a larger pool of qualified teachers who can help them earn these in-demand skills,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “To help meet the demand for more computer science teachers, we are removing barriers by covering the costs of coursework, materials, and exams for teachers who want to teach computer science in Ohio’s K-12 classrooms so they can better educate Ohio's future workforce."

   Lt. Governor Husted joined Senators Stephanie Kunze (R-Dublin) and Bill DeMora (D-Columbus) to announce legislation that will require age verification to restrict minors’ access to adult explicit websites.
Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine encouraged the Ohio General Assembly to work quickly to regulate intoxicating hemp to prevent its sale to children.
  Rogue chemists are modifying hemp, which is a legal, nonintoxicating plant, to extract a compound (delta-8 THC) that causes a high similar to marijuana. The intoxicating hemp is being marketed in stores across Ohio as candy, cereal, gummies, and other products that are attractive to children. Because intoxicating hemp products are not regulated, Ohio law does not prevent its sale to children.

   "The current loophole that allows these dangerous products to be sold to children needs to be closed as soon as possible. Right now, Senator Steve Huffman is working on a bill to address this, and once it is introduced, I encourage members of the Ohio General Assembly to act quickly to pass it," said Governor DeWine. "These products are marketed to kids and are made to look like their favorite candy and treats. With no regulation and wide availability, it is all too easy for kids to get them."

Lt. Governor Husted visited the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy in Columbus to check out the training equipment and thank the staff for their hard work.
Thursday, January 18, 2024
   Governor DeWine and Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) Director Kim Hauck announced that $14.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money will be distributed across 67 counties to better support Ohioans with developmental disabilities and their families.
   “These investments are truly going to make a difference for people with developmental disabilities and their families by giving them more access to the communities where they live,” said Governor DeWine. “People with developmental disabilities deserve opportunities, a reliable workforce, and an accessible state to live, learn, work, and succeed in.”
   These funds are part of $56 million in total ARPA Home and Community Based Services money allocated to DODD in the state budget signed in July. All county boards of developmental disabilities and Councils of Government could apply for funding.
Friday, January 19, 2024

   The Ohio State University and Governor DeWine announced a new research initiative to identify the root causes of the ongoing epidemic of persistent emotional distress, suicide, and drug overdose in the state of Ohio. Led by clinicians and researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine, in collaboration with several Ohio universities, the SOAR Study will investigate the role of biological, psychological, and social factors that underlie this epidemic.
   “Ohio must be the model in helping our citizens overcome or adapt to mental health challenges so that they improve mental and physical health, complete an education, attain a good-paying job, support a family, and contribute to our communities,” said Governor DeWine. “We envision that the SOAR Study will jump-start future efforts to learn more about what Ohioans can do to better manage adversity and develop resilience."
   Students and teachers in Appalachian Ohio can take advantage of two free learning opportunities this summer through the Appalachian Regional Commission.
   Applications for the Appalachian STEM Academy and the Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy are open through through Feb. 2. Students and teachers in the Appalachian region are encouraged to apply for these free programs, aimed at educating the next generation of thinkers and leaders.
   “Ohio is on the move, and opportunities like these will help prepare our state’s next generation of entrepreneurs and scientists,” said Governor DeWine. “This is a great chance for our Appalachian students to expand their horizons, explore interests, and discover all the possibilities that await them.”
   “These programs give students the opportunity to learn valuable skills and gain experience in academic fields that will fuel the workforce of the future,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “It’s not just a great experience, but a steppingstone for their future careers.”

   Governor DeWine officially declared 2024 as the Year of Ohio State Parks. This declaration marks the 75th anniversary of Ohio State Parks and underscores the state's unwavering commitment to preserving its natural wonders and expanding outdoor adventures.
   "Ohio's state parks, where admission is always free, give visitors an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Ohio's natural heritage,” said Governor DeWine. "The Year of Ohio State Parks is the perfect time to visit one or more of Ohio's 75 state parks, experience our state's natural beauty, and actively participate in the preservation of these treasured lands."

Monday, January 22, 2024

Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted was at the Rotary Club of Toledo sharing why Ohio is the heart of it all.
Ohio has diversified our economy because of our pro-business climate and in 2023, the state set a record for the most jobs in Ohio history.
Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued the following statement following the death of former Ohio Department of Public Safety Director and longest-serving Ohio Inspector General Thomas P. Charles.
   “Fran and I are saddened to learn of the death of Tom Charles. Tom was a dedicated public servant. He spent more than 31 years in the Ohio State Highway Patrol, serving in numerous leadership capacities up to his service as Lieutenant Colonel. Following his retirement from the Patrol in 1994, he went on to become Ohio’s longest-serving Inspector General from 1998-2011. He also served as Director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety from 2011-2013 and worked as an advisor to JobsOhio to oversee and ensure ethics compliance in the state’s privatized economic development agency.
   “Simply put, Tom’s commitment to public safety and integrity in government service was unmatched.
   “Fran and I extend our deepest sympathies to Tom’s wife, Brigette, and to his family and friends.”
   Governor DeWine and Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson announced more than $4.5 million in grant funding to increase the number of quality teen driver training programs in Ohio.
   A total of 34 grants will be awarded through the Creating Opportunities for Driver Education (CODE) Grant Program to increase driver training capacity at nearly 100 locations throughout Ohio. Grant recipients, including current and prospective driver training enterprises, educational service centers (ESCs), school districts, and career technical schools, can use funds toward the cost of training vehicles, instructor salaries, online education, and other administrative costs.
   “Ohio’s driver training programs help young drivers develop responsible road habits, while also laying the foundation for a lifetime of safe and confident driving,” said Governor DeWine. “More students in underserved areas will now have access to this vital training, allowing them to contribute to a safer, more informed generation of drivers.”
Governor DeWine attended the RecoveryOhio Advisory Council’s quarterly meeting.
   The council advises the RecoveryOhio initiative aimed at improving the state's response to substance use and mental health disorders. The RecoveryOhio Advisory Council is made up of people with lived experiences, family members, and experts from both the public and private sectors with experience in the fields of treatment, prevention, recovery support, and criminal justice.
Lt. Governor Husted, who serves as Director of the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, announced that 15 training providers located throughout the state will receive a total of $6.2 million to offer education at no cost through the Individual Microcredential Assistance Program (IMAP). The program creates the opportunity for Ohioans to earn technology-focused credentials at an approved provider for free.
   “Today’s announcement more than doubles the number of credentials available than in the most previous round of IMAP,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “We want to remove barriers to job training so more Ohioans can earn skills that are needed now and in the future, and that’s what we’re doing through the IMAP program.”
Wednesday, January 24, 2024

   First Lady Fran DeWine spoke at the Ohioans in Space Youth Discovery Day at the Ohio Statehouse to discuss the importance of education and our history in aviation and aerospace. Governor and First Lady DeWine also participated in science experiments with kids.
   As part of Governor DeWine’s H2Ohio initiative, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Clark Island and Delaware/Horseshoe Island restoration projects.
   This unique endeavor will rebuild Clark and Delaware/Horseshoe islands and the downstream portion of Delaware/Horseshoe Island which have deteriorated over the years due to erosion. The process of restoring the islands will improve water quality by reducing sediment and nutrients in the Maumee River and ultimately Lake Erie.

   “We have made it our mission to find innovative ways to improve water quality across Ohio, and this project is a prime example,” Governor DeWine said. “By restoring these eroded islands, more nutrients will be filtered out of the water, ensuring cleaner, safer water to drink and enjoy.”

   Governor and First Lady DeWine took part in the unveiling of the new “Ohioans in Space” painting at the Ohio Statehouse. Ohioans led the nation into the air and space, and this artwork - and the remarkable men and women it depicts - will serve as motivation for future generations of Ohioans to reach for the stars.
Thursday, January 25, 2024

Governor DeWine visited the Mt. Healthy Early Learning Center in Cincinnati and the Fayetteville-Perry Local School District in Fayetteville to learn about the school districts’ literacy initiatives.
   While visiting Fayetteville-Perry Local Schools, Governor DeWine met some of the first recipients of the new Governor's Merit Scholarship.
   Governor DeWine announced the 2024-2026 Suicide Prevention Plan for the state, reinforcing a commitment to eliminating obstacles for families and individuals grappling with suicide.
“The heartbreak of losing a family member to suicide is a pain that cuts deep, leaving behind a void that words can't fully capture," said Governor DeWine. “This plan will bring about a system-wide commitment to reduce suicides and encourage communities to work collectively to foster understanding and destigmatize mental health challenges.”

   The Ohio Department of Development announced the availability of nearly $12 million in grant funding dedicated to advancing innovation in coal technologies, fostering economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability across the state.
The funding is available through the Ohio Coal Research and Development Program, which supports projects aimed at modernizing the use of Ohio coal through innovative technologies and processes such as rare earth element extractions for manufacturing, alternate uses for coal waste, and even the conversion of coal into high-quality materials for housing construction.
   “By investing in emerging technologies, research, and forward-thinking projects, we will harness the potential of our abundant coal reserves in a way that is not only economically viable but also environmentally sound,” said Governor DeWine.
As snow frosted the trees and ice formed over the creek, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) joined the Appalachia Ohio Alliance to officially declare Bison Hollow as a state nature preserve last week. The 375 acres of land—etched in the rolling hills of Hocking and Vinton counties—is now permanently protected.
“State nature preserves play a significant role in protecting Ohio’s natural wonders,” Governor DeWine said. “From the cliff faces to the towering trees, there are so many features at Bison Hollow that sum up the beauty of this state.”
Governor DeWine issued the following statement regarding the situation at the U.S. southern border:
   "The situation at our country’s southern border is untenable and just keeps getting worse. The Biden Administration’s policy has been a total failure, and we need change now. I support Texas’ and Governor Abbott’s efforts as a state to stop this border crisis.
   "Securing our border is so important because illegal drugs, especially fentanyl, are known to cross the border, and the immigrant crisis exacerbates and drains resources from drug enforcement.
   "Ohio has stepped up to assist and has had a continuous presence on the border since October 2020, when I deployed approximately 115 members of the Ohio National Guard to support the Southwest Border operations in Texas. I also deployed approximately 375 Ohio National Guard members to Texas, including Ohio National Guard members who deployed in October 2023 and remain there today. I have also sent troopers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol to support local law enforcement with border security on two occasions.
   "Ohio will continue to do our part to support Texas and support policies to secure our border."
Friday, January 26, 2024
   Ohio’s private employers could pay nearly $67 million less in premiums next fiscal year due to a 7% rate reduction proposed to the BWC’s Board of Directors.
   If approved, this reduction would be the fifth straight reduction since Governor DeWine took office in 2019.
   “Ohio’s employers continue to show their dedication to workplace safety,” said Governor DeWine. “Their hard work to create safe environments for employees is what allows us to reduce rates year after year.”
   The Appalachian Regional Commission, in partnership with the Ohio Governor’s Office of Appalachia, is accepting applications for the Investments Supporting Partnerships in Recovery Ecosystems (INSPIRE) Initiative.
   The INSPIRE program addresses the Appalachian region’s substance use disorder crisis through projects that create opportunities for Ohioans in recovery to find and keep sustainable employment.
   “By providing support and opportunities for those in recovery, we are working to break the cycle of addiction and foster thriving, resilient communities,” said Governor DeWine. “Recovery-to-work projects do not just improve individual outcomes, but also economic development across the region.”