Rep. Brown statement as bill supporting Ohioans during the COVID-19 pandemic heads to governor's desk

Rep. Richard Brown (D-Canal Winchester) applauded the House passage of legislation that would allow more health professionals to administer the coronavirus vaccine, extend professional licenses and help low-income Ohioans pay for utilities amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

“Amid the ongoing efforts to increase vaccinations in our state, I was proud to support this legislation that will greatly expand the pool of vaccinators administering this inoculation against COVID-19,” said Rep. Brown. “While I remain disappointed in the inappropriate delay in providing utility assistance to working Ohio families, I am pleased that this aid will finally now be getting into Ohioans’ pockets.”

The legislation will improve access to the coronavirus vaccine for more Ohioans by authorizing additional health care providers to administer the vaccine, including podiatrists, pharmacists and pharmacy interns. 

Other provisions of the bill include:

• Allowing pharmacists to order and administer COVID-19 tests;
• Requiring the Board of Nursing to issue temporary licenses to registered nurses and license practical nurses;
• Requiring educator preparation programs to develop alternative experiences to allow students to make up for missed clinical experiences during the pandemic;
• Extending energy efficiency programs that help lower-income Ohioans earning at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level;

After clearing the House, the legislation now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.