Rep. Russo announces $77.4 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds

November 23, 2020

COLUMBUS – State Representative Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) and House Democrats Monday announced the approval of funds by the state Controlling Board to further aid Ohio’s response to the health and economic hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Ohioans are facing the largest number of COVID-19 cases seen yet,” said Rep. Russo. “The investment of these critical funds, especially into indoor air quality and the state pandemic response efforts, will help sustain the health and well-being of Ohioans as we move into colder weather and closed indoor spaces. I am pleased the Controlling Board released these funds and urge Ohioans to continue following best health practices.”

The Controlling Board Monday approved the use of federal CARES Act funds for the following items:

$38 million to the Ohio Dept. of Public Safety to aid state pandemic response efforts;
$30 million to create the “COVID-19 Indoor Air Quality Assistance Grant” that will allow Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) assessments and HVAC system/indoor air quality upgrades to occur at eligible non-profit or for-profit non-governmental nursing homes, assisted living centers, adult day cares;
$7 million to the Ohio National Guard to continue its support of statewide efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic;
$1.2 million to the Center for Science and Industry (COSI) to support the Distance Learning Initiative;
$1.2 million to the Ohio Department of Commerce to purchase technology needed for its 900 employees to effectively tele-work during the pandemic.