Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Week in Review

Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced that up to 1,100 Ohio K-12 educators will receive computer science training through Teach CS Grants. Of those 1,100, up to 650 will become newly qualified to teach computer science, and the remainder will pursue continuing educational opportunities. A total of $6 million will be awarded to 17 education institutions across the state to cover the costs of this professional development.

"The demand for tech skills is increasing daily, and more students are seeking computer science classes to prepare them for the future. However, we can?t offer more computer science classes without preparing a larger pool of qualified teachers who can help them earn these in-demand skills,? said Lt. Governor Husted. ?To help meet the demand for more computer science teachers, we are removing barriers by covering the costs of coursework, materials, and exams for teachers who want to teach computer science in Ohio?s K-12 classrooms so they can better educate Ohio's future workforce."?

Lt. Governor Husted joined Senators Stephanie Kunze (R-Dublin) and Bill DeMora (D-Columbus) to announce legislation that will require age verification to restrict minors? access to adult explicit websites.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine encouraged the Ohio General Assembly to work quickly to regulate intoxicating hemp to prevent its sale to children.?

Rogue chemists are modifying hemp, which is a legal, nonintoxicating plant,?to extract a compound (delta-8 THC) that causes a high similar to marijuana. The intoxicating hemp is being marketed in stores across Ohio as candy, cereal, gummies, and other products that are attractive to children.?Because intoxicating hemp products are not regulated, Ohio law does not prevent its sale to children.

"The current loophole that allows these dangerous products to be sold to children needs to be closed as soon as possible. Right now, Senator Steve Huffman is working on a bill to address this, and once it is introduced, I encourage members of the Ohio General Assembly to act quickly to pass it," said Governor DeWine. "These products are marketed to kids and are made to look like their favorite candy and treats. With no regulation and wide availability, it is all too easy for kids to get them."?

The Ohio State University?and?Governor DeWine?announced a new research initiative to identify the root causes of the ongoing epidemic of persistent emotional distress, suicide, and drug overdose in the state of Ohio. Led by clinicians and researchers at?The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center?and?College of Medicine, in collaboration with several Ohio universities, the?SOAR Study?will investigate the role of biological, psychological, and social factors that underlie this epidemic.

?Ohio must be the model in helping our citizens overcome or adapt to mental health challenges so that they improve mental and physical health, complete an education, attain a good-paying job, support a family, and contribute to our communities,? said Governor DeWine. ?We envision that the SOAR Study will jump-start future efforts to learn more about what Ohioans can do to better manage adversity and develop resilience."

Governor DeWine officially declared 2024 as the Year of Ohio State Parks. This declaration marks the 75th anniversary of Ohio State Parks and underscores the state's unwavering commitment to preserving its natural wonders and expanding outdoor adventures.?

"Ohio's state parks, where admission is always free, give visitors an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Ohio's natural heritage,? said Governor DeWine. "The Year of Ohio State Parks is the perfect time to visit one or more of Ohio's 75 state parks, experience our state's natural beauty, and actively participate in the preservation of these treasured lands."