House approves COVID-19 relief aid
The Ohio House has approved legislation to distribute $350 million in aid for local communities to help with the cost of COVID-19 expenses, Speaker Larry Householder announced today.
“The COVID-19 pandemic, including the economic impact of the government shutdown, has had widespread consequences, including to our local communities,” said Householder (R-Glenford). “I am hopeful this funding will help our local officials manage through this unprecedented time in our nation’s history.”
The measure distributes the federal CARES Act funds based on a formula currently used to distribute local government fund aid. Under federal law, the funding can only be used for COVID-19 pandemic-related expenses.
Here’s what the measure could mean for communities in the 72nd District:
- Perry County – Perry County, New Lexington and the townships and municipalities within the county combined would be eligible for up to $887,000 in aid.
- Coshocton County – The city of Coshocton, Coshocton County, as well as area townships and villages, would be eligible for up to $1 million in funding.
- Licking County – Up to $4.8 million for the county, Newark and area municipalities and townships.
The measure’s supporters include the County Commissioners Association of Ohio, Ohio Municipal League and the Ohio Township Association.
The legislation, Senate Bill 310, also reappropriates state construction aid for a number of projects around the state, including funding for COTC’s Pataskala campus project. The move allows the projects to continue moving forward.
The legislation now goes back to the Senate for consideration.
Category: People & Places
