A Note from Representative Russo

Dear Neighbor, 

Things continue to change quickly as local and state leaders respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. By now, many of you are aware of the Stay-At-Home order issued by Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton, which begins tonight, March 23, at 11:59 p.m. until April 6. This order closes non-essential businesses and requires all Ohioans to stay in their homes and limit movements outside their homes beyond essential needs to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. There are exceptions for essential activities and businesses, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, banks, carry-out restaurants, and others. An explanation of what this means for you and your family and frequently asked questions can be found here. While this action is very difficult for many families and businesses, this recent order is crucial to preventing and slowing the spread of this virus while our front-line health care workers continue to prepare for the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
Additionally, beginning on Thursday, March 26, child care programs will close and be limited to only centers with an approved Temporary Pandemic Child Care license. Pandemic Child Care Centers may enroll only children whose parents or guardians are considered essential health and safety workers. Currently, in Central Ohio, more than 120 Pandemic Child Care Center licenses have been approved. If you are an essential health and safety worker and have immediate child care needs, please reach out to an eligible center to obtain more information on how to apply for services.

The Ohio General Assembly will be in session this week. I have been working non-stop with local officials, constituents, businesses, and colleagues to address issues impacting our district during this crisis. I am also introducing several bills to ensure that our health care system is strong and that our small businesses and citizens are supported during this difficult time. I will be sharing more details on this legislation throughout the week. Moreover, a thorough list of state resources for economic support can be found here, and my office is always available to provide assistance to constituents who are navigating state and federal resources.

Finally, I will be holding a virtual Statehouse at Home this Thursday, March 26, from 5:00-6:00 p.m. using Facebook Live. I will be available to discuss the state response to COVID-19 and will be joined by Dr. Bradley Raetzke, President of the Ohio Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians. Dr. Raetzke will answer questions about individual actions we can take to slow the spread of COVID-19, as well as the needs of our front-line health workers.

Please take precautions to keep yourself healthy, and do not hesitate to reach out to my office if you have any questions or concerns. We are all in this together, and I know we will get through this challenging time better and stronger as a community.