Ohio News & Current Events | Public News Service

School supply drives are helping vulnerable Ohio families prepare for classes this fall. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Easing Back-to-School Jitters for Vulnerable Students

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- School bells will soon ring, and Ohio county Children Services agencies are doing what they can to make the transition back to …

The commission charged with drawing Ohio's 99 House and 33 Senate districts meets this week. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, August 3, 2021

State, Congressional District Designing Set to Begin in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- New congressional and legislative maps will soon start to take shape in Ohio. The Ohio Redistricting Commission convenes for the …

During routine well-child visits, pediatricians track kids' growth and important developmental milestones. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, August 2, 2021

Kids Behind on Wellness Visits? The Doctor is In

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The pandemic paused many facets of life, and a new report says wellness checkups for children were among them. And with school …

Supporters say legalizing marijuana for recreational use would be an economic boon for Ohio, but opponents have concerns about health and safety. (Adobe Stock)

Recreational Marijuana on the Table Again in Ohio

By Troy Pierson / Broadcast version by Mary Schuermann reporting for the Kent State-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. As marijuana becomes more …

Jessica Molena of Perrysburg says her own parents' advocacy for migrant farm workers has served as an inspiration. (FLOC)

Migrant Worker Group Helps Vaccinate an Ohio Community

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Jessica Molina of Perrysburg says she was inspired as a child by the spirit of activism, as she watched her parents participate in …

There are no state or federal regulations for toxic PFAS chemicals found in drinking water. (AdobeStock)

Congress Takes Action on Toxic "Forever Chemicals"

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A bill to tackle contamination from so-called "forever chemicals" known as Perfluorinated and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS) is …

Current research suggests kids age 10 and younger are less likely to become infected with COVID-19 and spread the infection to others. (AdobeStock)

Ohio AAP: Kids Need Class, and That Means Masks

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Amid mixed national messaging on COVID-19 and masks, the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends students …

DACA has been granted to more than 4,600 people in Ohio since 2012. (AdobeStock)

DACA Legal Limbo 'Exhausting' for Ohio Dreamers

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- In light of a new federal court ruling on DACA, immigration advocates in Ohio say Congress must take action to create a roadmap to …

Black women carry roughly 20% more student debt than their white counterparts. (Adobe Stock)

Campaign Aims to Liberate Black Women from Student-Debt Burden

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Black women carry more student loan debt than any other group, and a national petition has been launched to cancel $50,000 in …

Around 249,000 Ohio households were behind on the rent in June, according to the census. (Aaron/AdobeStock)<br /><br /> — Around 249,000 Ohio households were behind on the rent in June, according to the census. (Aaron/AdobeStock)

Report Reveals Growing Divide Between Ohio Wages and Rent

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The gap between rent and wages continues to widen in Ohio, according to new research. The annual Out of Reach report showed the …

More than half of women who have been raped by their spouse also report repeat victimization in their relationship. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio Bill Would End Spousal Exemptions for Sexual Violence

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A bill under consideration in the Ohio Legislature would ensure relationship status doesn't limit a sexual assault victim's ability …

The Child Tax Credit for 2021 increased from $2,000 to $3,000 for children 6-17. (geralt/Pixabay)<br /> — The Child Tax Credit for 2021 increased from $2,000 to $3,000 for children 6-17. (geralt/Pixabay)

More Money to Make Ends Meet for Ohio Families

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Many Ohio families will soon get extra cash to keep up with the cost of raising their kids. The 2021 Child Tax Credit expansion …

The USPS delivers mail and packages to 161.4 million addresses in every city and state. (AdobeStock)<br /> — The USPS delivers mail and packages to 161.4 million addresses in every city and state. (AdobeStock)

Business Groups Want Action on Postal Service Reform Bill

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Supporters of the U.S. Postal Service are pressing for passage of a bill to shore up the troubled agency. Sen. Rob Portman - R-…

Experts say having an exercise partner can help most people better reach their fitness goals. <br />(Adobe Stock) — Experts say having an exercise partner can help most people better reach their fitness goals.
(Adobe Stock)

Experts Offer Tips for Bouncing Back After COVID Weight Gain

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohioans who are carrying around extra weight gained during the pandemic are not alone. According to the American Psychological …

Since 1989, 87 people convicted of crimes have been exonerated in Ohio. (Adobe Stock)

Free After 14 Years, Ohio Men Await New Trial

By Kennedi Combs / Broadcast version by Mary Schuermann, reporting for the Kent State-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. For 14 years, Michael …

The Equal Districts Coalition is calling on the Ohio Redistricting Commission to convene, even though the latest U.S. Census information is more than a month from being released. (Equal Districts Ohio)

New Coalition: Time to Get to Work on Ohio Redistricting

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A new alliance is calling on Ohio's elected leaders to get to work on this year's redistricting process. The newly launched Equal …

Around 16% of Greater Cincinnatians surveyed during the pandemic said they had serious problems paying their mortgage or rent. (AdobeStock)

1 in 4 Ohioans Hit by Financial Toll of Pandemic

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 disrupted the lives of Ohioans, and data continues to evolve that is uncovering the far-…

The Ohio Domestic Violence Network's Fresh Start program is supported by funds from the CARES Act and the American Rescue Plan. (Anete Lusina/Pexels)

OH Domestic Violence Prevention Focus on Housing Options for Survivors

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- New programs available to domestic violence-prevention groups in Ohio aim to help survivors transition into safe, stable housing…

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about one-in-six teens who start using marijuana become addicted to the drug. (fontonize/AdobeStock)

Marijuana, Mood Disorder and Self-Harm: A Troubling Connection

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Substance misuse prevention experts in Ohio are raising the alarm about the dangers associated with marijuana use among teens with …

Anyone who has unprotected sex is urged to get an HIV test at least every six months. (davide bonaldo/Adobe Stock)

Ohio Advocate: 'Deafening Silence' on Need for HIV Testing

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- This Sunday is National HIV Testing Day, when people are urged to find out their HIV status and work to end the stigma around HIV …

OEFFA's 2021 Sustainable Food and Farm Tour will feature an organic dairy pasture walk. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio Farm Tour Series Back after Pandemic Pause

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Some farmers and growers in Ohio are ready to share their knowledge and showcase the work they do to get food from the field to the …

Ohioans going through tough times can use SNAP benefits to purchase food at grocery stores. (AdobeStock)

SNAP Provisions in Ohio Budget Raise Red Flags

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The Conference Committee working on Ohio's budget could vote as early as today on measures that could make it more difficult to …

Nearly one in four Ohio adults recently said they live in households that experienced difficulty paying expenses. (Adobe Stock)

Report Suggests Ohio Child Well-Being Gains Could Decline

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- An annual report on child well-being in Ohio underscores the need for specific action to repair the damage caused by the pandemic…

A new Gallup survey shows more than 60% of Americans say they know "a little bit" or "nothing at all" about Juneteenth, the date that celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. (DoDEA.edu)

Juneteenth Declared National Holiday, Amidst Progress, Upheaval

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Juneteenth National Independence Day is now an official holiday, after President Joe Biden signed a bill Thursday, approved by both …

Owners of federally subsidized housing tend to generate less rental income and more operating costs than than market-rate housing projects. (Adobe Stock)<br /> — Owners of federally subsidized housing tend to generate less rental income and more operating costs than than market-rate housing projects. (Adobe Stock)

Hundreds of Groups Argue Against Change to Affordable Housing Valuations

COLUMBUS, Ohio - More than 300 Ohio groups and businesses are voicing opposition to a state budget amendment that would change how affordable housing …

One in four Medicare recipients reported using telehealth services at the peak of the pandemic. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio Budget Funding for Broadband Expansion in Jeopardy

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Funding that would help bridge the digital divide in Ohio is in jeopardy. House Bill 2, signed into law in May, created the Ohio …

More than half of Americans polled in 2020 said they're pessimistic about the country's ability to overcome political divides. (AdobeStock)

Can What Unites Us End Toxic Polarization?

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohioans of all political viewpoints and backgrounds are encouraged to learn how they can help defeat the toxic polarization …

Ohio's Medicaid managed care services program has more than 3 million members. (AdobeStock)

Senate Budget Derails Ohio's Medicaid Managed Care Process

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A plan to revamp Ohio's Medicaid managed care system could be thrown off course. After two years of input from key stakeholders…

Cleveland teacher Shauntina Thornton says all Ohio students deserve a world-class public education. (All in for Ohio Kids)

Will Ohio Get a 'Fair' Fix for School Funding?

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Senate passed its version of the state budget yesterday, and education advocates are hopeful lawmakers from both chambers …

Ohio is among roughly a dozen states that allow brine waste from the energy industry to be used to melt ice on roadways. (NCDOTCommunications/Flickr)

Observers Raise Red Flags about Expanding Toxic Brine Use in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Oil and gas industry waste that's used to melt ice on roads could become more prevalent in Ohio. Brine from conventional wells can …

Wildlife not seen for years is returning to Mentor Marsh after more than 200 acres were restored. (Eric Drost/Flickr)

Groups Say Biden Proposals Would Boost Lake Erie Restoration in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Groups that fight for clean, affordable water are speaking out in favor of President Joe Biden's proposed budget, which would put …

The federal Family First Act requires states to implement new services that will prevent kids from coming into foster care. (AdobeStock)

Leaders of Ohio Children's Services Repeat Pleas for Local Funding

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Children's services leaders in Ohio are reiterating calls for more funding to local agencies. Specifically, they're asking the …

Experts say time spent outdoors, away from social media, is a good way to combat anxiety and depression. (Pixabay)

Ohio Doctor: Mental-Health Help is Out There

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Nearly 20,000 Ohioans have died and more than one million have been infected by COVID-19, but the health impacts of the pandemic go …

For every meal provided by a food bank, SNAP provides nine. (AdobeStock)

50% of Ohio's Food Insecure Shut Out of Federal Food Assistance

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is often called 'the first line of defense against hunger,' and it's out of …

Ephemeral streams are considered the backbone of a watershed. (bgwashburn/Flickr)

Small Yet Vital Streams Could Lose Protections in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A vital part of watersheds in Ohio would lose environmental protection under a proposed bill. A committee hearing will be held …

The expanded Child Tax Credit for 2021 is $3,600 for a child under age six. (Pixabay)

Expanded Child Tax Credit: A Game-Changer for Ohio Families

COLUMBUS, Ohio - A historic expansion of the federal Child Tax Credit could be a game-changer for Ohio families. According to state data, nearly 10%…

At nearly 74%, a historic percentage of Ohio voters cast a ballot in the 2020 November election. (David Wilson/Flickr)

House Hearing Today on New Election Reform Bill in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A hearing will be held today on a controversial bill to overhaul Ohio's voting laws. Supporters of House Bill 294 said the measure …

Executions in Ohio are carried out at the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility. (Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Corrections)

Lawmakers, Faith Leaders Unite to End Ohio's Death Penalty

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Lawmakers and faith leaders are among Ohioans uniting behind legislation to end capital punishment in the state. On Tuesday…

AARP Ohio is spreading the word about a new initiative to help struggling Ohioans pay for high-speed internet. (Pixabay)

New Program to Help Bridge Ohio's Digital Divide

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A new initiative is expected to help bridge the digital divide in Ohio. People whose finances are strained during the COVID-19 …

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps about 1.5 million Ohioans. (USDA/Flickr)

New Barriers to SNAP Access Proposed in Ohio Bill

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A bill that would make it more difficult to obtain food assistance in Ohio faces an uncertain future. More than 60 people have …

Advocates say increasing access to high-quality child care can help more women provide for their families and prepare kids for the future. (AdobeStock)

Coalition Urges Ohio Senate to Invest in Child Wellbeing

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- As the Ohio Senate continues hearings on the biennial state budget, there are calls for lawmakers to move the needle on investments …

Domestic-violence hotlines are a lifeline for victims seeking safety and support. <br />(AdobeStock) — Domestic-violence hotlines are a lifeline for victims seeking safety and support.
(AdobeStock)

Domestic-Violence Support: Not All Calls for Help Getting Answered

Clarification: Added additional information on the General Assembly budget process. 5/12/2021 5:26pm Central COLUMBUS, Ohio -- During a single 24-…

Supporters of a federal election reform bill say it's necessary to counteract a flood of state-level legislation restricting voting rights. (Adobe Stock)

Is the "For the People Act" for Ohio?

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A sweeping bill aimed at improving election fairness in states across the country is making its way through Congress, but Ohio's …

An outbreak of vaping-related lung injury is under investigation by the CDC. (AdobeStock)

Ohio Group Aims to Stem Surge of Marijuana Vaping Among Teens

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Groups working to prevent substance misuse said immediate action is needed to stem the surge of young people vaping marijuana…

Maeve Walsh, the former special projects editor for Ohio State University's student newspaper, was among reporters pepper-sprayed by police officers while shouting "We are members of the news media!" (Marisa Twigg/Eye on Ohio)

Does Press Freedom Extend to Covering Police?

By Lucia Walinchus, Marisa Twigg and Jaelynn Grisso for Eye on Ohio, The Ohio Center for Investigative JournalismBroadcast version by Lily Bö…

Toxic algae blooms driven by excess nutrients give the waters of Lake Erie a greenish hue. (Adobe Stock)

Industrial Ag Runoff Seen as Major Threat to Lake Erie

TOLEDO, Ohio -- Groups advocating for clean water say they're facing an uphill battle trying to prevent animal manure and other pollution from …

Survivors of sexual violence are often reluctant to seek help. (Adobe Stock)

Rape-Crisis Agencies, Already Burdened by Cuts, Brace for More

Correction: MacMath directs COMPASS (Sexual Assault Education, Prevention & Support), an affiliate of Goodwill Industries. An earlier version of this …

In 2019, suicides made up more than 60% of gun deaths in Ohio, according to the Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence. (Adobe Stock)

OH Cities Join Coalition Calling for New Gun-Safety Technology

CINCINNATI - Toledo and Cincinnati officials are leading the Gun Safety Consortium, a group of cities across the United States that is calling on the …

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