Representative Lisa Sobecki announced that the state controlling board approved several items, including the allocation of $161.5 million to enhance early childhood education.
The funds will help support child care providers navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, recruit employees and increase access for education. Additionally, $100 million from the federal government were allocated for schools and local districts seeking to maintain vital educational services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The controlling board also allocated $3.7 million to support vaccine distribution and $200,000 for COVID-19 testing.
“In Ohio, elected leaders should work for the people, not special interests. This week’s approved funding supports early childhood development, expands the social net, and enhances government service,” said Representative Sobecki. “Our Ohio promise is that we work for you, and this week’s actions reflect that.”
The board approved other measures to support Ohioans amid the coronavirus pandemic, including:
•$20.5 million over the next two years to support adoption in Ohio;
•$6 million over the next two years to improve childcare curriculums and train providers;
•$3 million for the Ohio Broadband and 5G Sector Partnership;
•$1 million to reimburse the Adjutant General’s Department for costs incurred by providing emergency assistance to Louisiana after Hurricane Ida;
•$250,000 to help adjudicate claims in the Office of Unemployment Insurance Operations;
•$115,000 to improve the website and app for statewide traveler information, so that Ohioans can be informed beforehand about road closures, delays and severe weather;
•$39,595 to help provide relevant information for the Office of Unemployment Insurance Operations when seeking to adjudicate claims.
