WEEK IN REVIEW
Friday, August 4, 2023

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Week in Review

For the week ending August 4, 2023

Monday, July 31, 2023

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced the approval of assistance for four projects set to create 781 new jobs and retain 146 jobs statewide.?During its monthly meeting, the Ohio Tax Credit Authority (TCA) reviewed economic development proposals brought to the board by JobsOhio and its regional partners. Collectively, the projects are expected to result in more than $85 million in new payroll and spur more than $47 million in investments across Ohio.?

Lt. Governor Husted traveled to Newark to join leaders from Intel, JobsOhio and the state's community colleges as they unveiled programs and career pathways designed to fast-track workers needed for the new semiconductor industry.

Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine?helped children make pizzas inside the Taste of Ohio Caf? at the Ohio State Fair. The First Lady also talked with kids about where food comes from, and she shared healthy herbs and vegetables from the Governor?s Residence and Heritage Garden to be used as toppings.

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Governor DeWine and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) Director Anne Vogel announced that a comprehensive study of Ohio's largest rivers shows tremendous improvements in water quality over the past several decades.?

Ohio EPA launched its first-ever comprehensive large rivers study beginning in 2020 to measure changes in water quality since the 1980s and to identify any current issues impacting water health.?The study found that water quality has improved tremendously over the years,? with 86% of the state?s large rivers in good to excellent condition as compared with just 18% in the 1980s.

"Water is truly one of Ohio's greatest assets, and we have an obligation to preserve and protect it," said Governor DeWine. "The health of Ohio's rivers reflects years of work and investment by our local communities and by Ohio EPA, and we intend to continue working to ensure that our healthy rivers stay healthy and that that rivers that still need improvement are restored."?

Lt. Governor Husted provided remarks and moderated a panel with artificial intelligence experts from Ohio and around the nation, at the Cincinnati Innovation District.?Panelists at this forum shared their expertise on the functions of AI, along with strategies for businesses, educators, and state and local leaders, so that Ohio can continue its legacy of innovation as this new technology emerges.

Lt. Governor Husted announced the departure of his Chief of Staff, Joshua Eck, as he pursues a new opportunity outside of state government. Husted named Aaron Crooks to serve as his Chief of Staff, effective at the close of business on Tuesday.

?Josh has been an important part of our successes at the offices of Secretary of State and Lieutenant Governor. He has the winning combination of being talented and hard-working, and I have been blessed to have him as part of the team,? said Lt. Governor Husted. ?Aaron brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from both the public and private sectors to his new role, and I look forward to all that we will collectively accomplish as a team over the next few years as we remain focused on our innovation, workforce, and economic development agenda."

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Governor DeWine announced the investment of $3.5 million into 10 projects from Transportation Improvement Districts (TID) with one in each of 10 counties. The funds will cover project development and construction in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

?Our economy relies on the ability to move people and goods,? said Governor DeWine. ?These funds will ensure that our transportation system is keeping pace with Ohio?s growing economic needs.?

Governor DeWine announced that thousands of first responders across Ohio will receive incentives from the state in recognition of their dedication to public safety and their ongoing commitment to public service.

More than 10,000 law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel from 309 agencies will receive a total of about $35 million in retention incentives as part of the Ohio First Responder Recruitment, Retention, and Resilience Program,?which was created to address first responder burnout caused by understaffing and overall job stress.?

"In Ohio, we value our first responders and know that the work they do is essential," said Governor DeWine. "Our goal through this program is to ensure that our firefighters, EMTs, and law enforcement officers have the support and resources they need for their personal well-being and in their professional lives."

Thursday, August 3, 2023

Governor DeWine released an update on the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, that occurred six months ago.?Future updates from the state will be provided on an as-needed basis.

Governor DeWine spoke at the Ohio State Fair Hall of Fame ceremony.?The Ohio State Fair Hall of Fame was established in 1976 to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions toward making the Ohio State Fair one of America?s premier expositions.?Each year, the Governor selects the Hall of Fame inductees from nominations made by the community and forwarded by the nominating committee.?

Lt. Governor Husted joined a roundtable in Toledo to discuss the $125 million included in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 operating budget allotted for the creation of innovation hubs throughout the state. The initiative aims to increase research and development, create new jobs, preserve existing jobs, and support improved economic conditions throughout Ohio. Ohio currently has?Innovation Districts?in Columbus, Cleveland and Cincinnati.

Friday, August 4, 2023

Governor DeWine spoke at the Ohio Agricultural Hall of Fame ceremony.?The Ohio Agricultural Hall of Fame honors four agriculturalists each year?for their superior service, dedication, leadership, and plentiful contributions to?agriculture. Enshrinement in the Ohio Agricultural Hall of Fame is Ohio?s highest recognition of an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the industry.

-30-

MEDIA CONTACT:
Dan Tierney: 614-644-0957