Guest Column: A Legislative Update from State Rep. Gayle Manning
I hope my update today finds you and your families safe and healthy as our state continues to face the coronavirus pandemic. I wanted to provide you with an update on my efforts as the Legislature returned to the Statehouse and other ways in which I’ve been engaging with our community during this unprecedented time.
Last week, the Ohio House of Representatives returned to the Capitol to work on behalf of the people. I had the great opportunity to address the House floor in support of House Bill 365, a bill I am the primary sponsor for and I was very pleased to see it pass in a bipartisan vote of 93-2. The legislation works to fix the shortage of chemical dependency counselors in Ohio, this profession, is key in helping individuals at addiction treatment centers across the state.
Recently, and sadly, it was reported by WTAM that another wave of drug overdoses occurred within Lorain County. Even as we face the pandemic, the opioid crisis is still an issue that needs to be addressed and this legislation is still more important than ever in finding solutions to the opioid problem in our state. House Bill 365 helps the workforce by giving additional paths for those to meet requirements to become a chemical dependency counselor, while simultaneously, combating the opioid crisis throughout Ohio.
Pertaining to the coronavirus, I’ve taken the time to keep engaged with many of you as this pandemic has certainly impacted people in various ways. As a retired teacher, I do enjoy speaking with students and that is why I participated in a Zoom call with students from Xavier University about the importance of our elections. Our primary election, this year especially, was a very crucial topic as we updated the public on the ways they could cast their votes amid the pandemic.
I also had the privilege back in April to be a part of a Tele-Town Hall with Congressman Robert Gibbs. For the event, we took questions and concerns from constituents on several issues related to the coronavirus. During the event, we discussed unemployment, farming issues, and information regarding the federal stimulus checks.
Lastly, as a resident of North Ridgeville, I am grateful for the town that I live in. This is why, in a time of crisis, I’ve been delivering Meals on Wheels to senior citizens across my district who need it most. I intend to continue helping this great organization when I can.
We are all facing challenging times, whether you’re a small business or worker struggling or a parent concerned about daycare or the education of your child. I want you to know that if there’s any way I can help you or your family with an issue, please feel free to reach out to my office at Rep55@ohiohouse.gov or at (614) 644-5076. It is an honor and privilege to serve you all within the 55th Ohio House District.
Gayle Manning, State Representative