Rep. Russo announces $650 Million in COVID-19 relief funds for distribution to Ohio's local governments

COLUMBUS – State Representative Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) announced this week the passage of House Bill (H.B.) 614, legislation that allocates a total of $650 million in federal CARES Act relief funds for local governments in Ohio. The funds are to be used to offset costs faced by local governments directly caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Previously approved by the Ohio Senate, the bill now heads to the Governor’s desk.

The funds approved during Wednesday’s House session are set to be distributed to localities on a per capita basis. Local governments in House District 24 are estimated to receive the following amounts for a total of approximately $3.75 million in funds:

• $1,316,530 to the City of Hilliard;
• $1,274,440 to the City of Upper Arlington;
• $83,423 to Brown Township;
• $145,080 to Norwich Township;
• $240,106 to Pleasant Township;
• $624,968 to Prairie Township;
• $66,017 to Sharon Township

The City of Columbus, meanwhile, received a direct allocation of $156,790,569 in federal CARES Act relief funds to offset costs directly caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“I am pleased to announce the distribution of these important CARES Act funds during this critical time,” said Rep. Russo.  “Our local governments are at the forefront of mitigating the effects of this ongoing pandemic, and it is vital that we continue to provide them with the financial support they need to ensure our infrastructure, small businesses, public safety, and communities remain strong.”

State lawmakers previously approved $350 million in federal CARES Act funds for local governments in June, as well as $175 million approved by the state Controlling Board in August, making H.B. 614 the latest relief package for Ohio localities responding to unprecedented costs incurred throughout the pandemic.