Rep. Sweeney announces over $151 million in funding to improve the health and safety of Ohioans most at-risk

COLUMBUS – Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Cleveland) announced today that the state Controlling Board approved several major items this week, including $125 million to continue the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs in Ohio schools to ensure every student has access to nutritious meals. $2.6 million was also allocated to begin implementing sports betting in Ohio, a Democratic priority that is anticipated to eventually generate tens of millions of dollars per year for education in the state.

Additionally, $23 million has been approved to support various Ohio housing assistance programs to help individuals and families stay in their homes. The Controlling Board also approved $1 million to aid maternal and child safety programs within the state. 

“These dollars will support public education across the State of Ohio by ensuring that no child has to learn on an empty stomach,” said Rep. Sweeney. “I am also pleased to be a part of releasing additional funds to regulate sports betting. This is an important step forward that will make Ohio more competitive.”

Additional approved items include:

·         $3.8 million to utilize federal funds that were awarded to support manufacturing, small business, and export promotion in the state of Ohio;          

·         $1.4 million to amend contracts with various vendors in support of the Unemployment Insurance Operations;

·         $5 million to contract with Priority Dispatch for statewide library delivery service;

·         $750,000 to maximize use of Annual State Energy Program funding provided by U.S. Department of Energy.