COVID-19 Funding Relief Bill Signed into Law

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) today announced Governor Mike DeWine has signed into law House Bill 170, legislation that supports Ohio’s schools, the Ohio Department of Health, and the National Guard by providing over $967 million in COVID-19 federal funding relief.

“Today’s bill signing a huge step forward in providing relief to Ohio’s schools and getting our state back on track,” said Richardson. “I am honored to sponsor this bill, and I sincerely thank my colleagues for their support in utilizing this federal aid.” 

The measure provides the following funding:

• $632.4 million to Ohio’s public schools
• $154.9 million to Ohio’s private schools
• $173 million to the Ohio Department of Health for COVID-19 testing and vaccine distribution efforts 
• $7 million to the Adjutant General to support the Ohio National Guard response

The State Controlling board recently approved $26 million to support Educational Service Centers, Joint Vocational Schools, and Ohio’s County Boards of Developmental Disabilities, as well as $50 million for public schools to expedite the release of the those funds. 

The bill also contains provisions that allow the Auditor of State to review the allocated federal funds to identify common usages and best utilization of those dollars.

H.B. 170 becomes effective in 90 days.