Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Week in Review
For the week ending December 19, 2025
Monday, December 15, 2025
 Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced the approval of 17 projects that will create 2,347 new jobs and retain 8,592 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. The projects are expected to result in more than $148 million in new payroll and generate more than $1.1 billion in investments across Ohio.
 Governor DeWine joined Jewish communities across Ohio in lighting the menorah and celebrating Hanukkah. May the lights remind us of the strength of faith, the importance of freedom, and the power of hope.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
 As families across Ohio begin Las Posadas, Governor DeWine wished everyone a meaningful and joyful celebration.
 Governor DeWine joined Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) Chancellor Mike Duffey to announce the results of a recent audit into educator preparation programs (EPPs) at colleges and universities across the state.
The audit was conducted to determine the extent to which college EPPs in Ohio are aligned with the Science of Reading, as required by state law.
“Decades of research tells us the Science of Reading gives students of all ability levels the best chance to become strong, independent readers,” said Governor DeWine. “Our kids only have one chance to grow up. We have an obligation to act with great urgency to make sure every future teacher going through our college programs is learning the best way to teach reading.”
 Governor DeWine and BroadbandOhio announced more than $6.3 million to expand broadband access by reimbursing internet service providers (ISPs) for infrastructure.
Through the Broadband Pole Replacement and Undergrounding Program, which was designed to support ISPs by covering the costs of updating infrastructure, which can often be difficult to anticipate, four internet providers are receiving reimbursement—impacting 30 counties.
“Having affordable, high-speed internet is a necessity for every Ohioan, regardless of where they live,” said Governor DeWine. “By helping internet service providers with infrastructure costs, we’re ensuring that reliable networks can reach every rural town and underserved neighborhood to bridge the digital divide across the state.”
 The Ohio Department of Development announced approximately $10 million in grants is now available to support the creation of workforce housing near major economic development projects.
Applications are now open for the Residential Economic Development District (REDD) program, which provides approximately $10 million in grants this fiscal year, followed by roughly $15 million in Fiscal Year 2027, to help communities expand housing opportunities close to where jobs are growing.
The program was passed by the Ohio General Assembly in the state’s biennium budget bill, House Bill 96, and signed by Governor DeWine earlier this year. In total, $25 million has been allocated for the program.
“As the job market continues to grow across Ohio, we must ensure that people filling those jobs can live nearby,” said Governor DeWine. “The REDD program helps our communities respond to that growth in a way that supports workers, families, and employers.”
“When we plan for growth, we must also plan for the people who make that growth possible,” said Lt. Governor Jim Tressel. “The REDD program reflects Ohio’s commitment to planning not just for jobs, but for the people who fill them.”
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
 Governor DeWine, Lt. Governor Tressel, and Ohio Department of Development Director Mihalik announced state support for dozens of historic restoration projects that will encourage continued economic growth in Ohio.
As part of the Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program, 33 projects will be awarded more than $75 million in tax credits to preserve 45 buildings across the state. The projects are expected to leverage approximately $681 million in private investments.
"Through this program, we are breathing new life into iconic buildings so they can drive economic growth in Ohio, all while honoring the craftsmanship and character that make our state so special,” said Governor DeWine. “Once restored, these buildings will create jobs by housing new businesses and will lead to additional investment and revitalization in surrounding areas."
“Preservation and progress go hand in hand,” said Lt. Governor Tressel. “This program strengthens local economies and ensures future generations can benefit from the places that have long been at the heart of their communities.”
Thursday, December 18, 2025
First Lady Fran DeWine hosted friends of the Ohio Governor’s Residence and Heritage Garden for the holidays, celebrating everything they do to help preserve the Residence and Heritage Garden.
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Friday, December 19, 2025
 Governor Mike DeWine signs Avery's Law at the Ohio Statehouse.
Governor DeWine signed numerous bills passed by the 136th General Assembly. The bill signing ceremony included Avery's Law (House Bill 247), legislation establishes new requirements on dangerous dog owners to prevent dog attacks; and property tax reform bills: House Bill 124, House Bill 129, House Bill 186, House Bill 309, and House Bill 335.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Dan Tierney: 614-644-0957
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