Pavliga Highlights Nearly $1.3 Million Approved for Portage County Projects

State Rep. Gail Pavliga (R-Portage County) announces the Ohio State Controlling Board approved two measures at their meeting today for both Northeast Ohio College of Medicine (NEOMED) and Children’s Advantage totaling nearly $1.3 million.

“I am very pleased and thankful to the Controlling Board today for approving these Portage County projects,” Pavliga said. “With the approval of these projects, we’re seeing purposeful funding for one of our higher education institutions and for the Children’s Advantage facility in Ravenna, which will certainly be put to good use in helping the mental health of children and families in our communities.”

The two measures and allocations approved today include:

• $545,100 for NEOMED research laboratory building improvements
• $750,000 for community behavioral health purposes to purchase a program space for Children’s Advantage

Pavliga currently serves as the vice-chair of the House Behavioral Health and Recovery Supports Committee and has been a staunch supporter of addressing mental health issues.

Pavliga has visited Children’s Advantage multiple times and has met with their CEO, Kathy Regal, and their staff to discuss legislation and other ways to protect children. Legislation Pavliga has introduced during the 134th General Assembly on these issues include:

• House Bill 226: Seeks to protect program individuals that protect children by expanding on intimidation offenses for guardians ad litems (GALs) and court appointed special advocates (CASAs)
• House Bill 289: Provides kinship preference in foster care
• House Bill 428: Establishes the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study Commission

Notably, Pavliga’s House Bills 226 and 428 have been passed in the Ohio House and await further consideration in the Senate.