Rep. Brown announces more than $320 thousand to support Ohio police officers and firefighters with PTSD, increased funding for Reynoldsburg GEAR UP program

COLUMBUS – Rep. Richard D. Brown (D-Canal Winchester) announced today the state Controlling Board approved $320,821 to reimburse the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund for costs associated with the state post-traumatic stress fund. This program was created with the passage of House Bill 308 of the 133rd General Assembly, of which Representative Brown was a co-sponsor, to support police officers and firefighters by paying for lost wages as well as medical and administrative costs associated with disability from post-traumatic stress disorder.

“House Bill 308 is one of the most important bills I have voted on and I’m proud to support Ohio’s police officers and firefighters,” said Rep. Brown. “Our first responders keep our communities safe and we owe it to them to provide them with the benefits needed to take care of their mental well-being.”

Additionally, $400,000 was approved to support the Ohio GEAR UP Grant, which prepares and supports students in obtaining postsecondary education. Reynoldsburg City Schools, located in House District 20, is one of six school districts selected by the Ohio Department of Education to participate in this program.

“The funds released today will benefit the students at Reynoldsburg City Schools as they get ready for their future,” said Rep. Brown. “By providing additional counseling and advising services, we are helping students succeed and meet their higher education goals right here in Ohio.”

Additional approved funds today include:

·  $100 million to continue the National School Lunch Program to ensure every student has access to nutritious meals;

·  $25 million for rental and utility payment relief to assist Ohioans facing evictions and economic hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic;

· $3.75 million to operate the Afterschool Child Enrichment educational savings account program that will allow low-income families to enroll their children in extended learning opportunities such as day camps, tutoring, and field trips;

· $262,500 to provide assistance to disabled and elderly low-income residents through the Resident Services Coordinator Program, which allows those who qualify to obtain benefits and services offered in the local community;

· $7.5 million to develop community housing for Ohioans with developmental disabilities.