COVID-19
Blood banks warn of ‘severely declining’ blood supply amid COVID-19 pandemic
Blood banks are growing increasingly worried about a looming shortfall in the nation’s blood supply. They say coronavirus-driven cancelations and closures at major blood drive sites — universities, high schools, and large employers — are threatening a shortage down the line. As the infected population in Ohio continues to grow, the restricted blood supply represents […]
Can Ohio’s divided congressional delegation find common ground on coronavirus?
WASHINGTON — How much paid leave are Ohio employers required to provide under new federal law? Will they be reimbursed? What benefits will workers get if they aren’t eligible for paid sick leave? How do restaurant and bar owners get in on the state’s liquor buyback program? Ohio U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson (R-6th) answers these […]
Internet providers commit to keep Ohioans connected during self-isolation, school closures
The closure of schools has caused disruption to students’ schooling and every day routine, so some internet providers are committing to help. Several high-speed internet providers in the start have joined with the Federal Communications Commission’s “Keep Americans Connected” Pledge. With the commitment, internet service providers say they “will not terminate service to any residential […]
At least 2 members of Congress have coronavirus
WASHINGTON — Two members of the U.S. House announced Wednesday that they had tested positive for COVID-19, leading other lawmakers to announce their own self-quarantine plans and increasing uncertainty about how far the illness has already spread on Capitol Hill. Florida Republican Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart issued a statement Wednesday that he had tested positive for COVID-19. […]
During Sunshine week, Ohio leaders show value of open gov’t during public health crisis
In a public health crisis, nothing is more vital for our citizenry than honest and accurate information. Most Americans are getting that information during this COVID-19 pandemic — from health experts, media outlets and government officials. This is what makes reports of Chinese government censorship during this crisis even more jarring. The New York Times […]
You Said It, Week of March 16-20
Reader opinions from the week of March 16-20: DeWine seeks to push back Ohio primary election to June Leo Barbour: “This will leave public school levies hanging.” Linda M Barry: “I am so pleased because I was really worried I would get caught in a line. A senior here!” ‘Woefully unprepared:’ How small-scale testing capabilities […]
Ohio voting rights groups take issue with LaRose’s election orders
Days after the Ohio Primary Election was postponed, it is still unclear how (or when) voting will proceed. Despite that, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose is not waiting on the courts or the legislature to decide. LaRose has announced a new June 2 voting date on his official government website. Not only that, but […]
‘Woefully unprepared:’ How small-scale testing capabilities mar Ohio’s COVID-19 response
The same day the first Ohioan known to be infected with COVID-19 began to display symptoms, the state Department of Health received its first testing kit from the CDC. The kit didn’t work. Two of the three reagents that comprise the kit were faulty, according to ODH Director Dr. Amy Acton. Samples from suspected cases […]
State applies for federal program to provide loans to small businesses
The state of Ohio has started the process of enlisting the U.S. Small Business Administration for monetary assistance amid the COVID-19 closures. Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said they sent a letter and application on Tuesday to the SBA so the state can qualify for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Husted […]
Congress clears 2nd major coronavirus package; 3rd in the works
WASHINGTON — A second major coronavirus package cleared the U.S. Senate Wednesday and is now headed to President Donald Trump for his signature. The bill passed 90-8, with overwhelming bipartisan support. The multi-billion dollar measure aims to slow the spread of a new coronavirus and stimulate the economy as a major recession looms. Both Ohio […]
The coronavirus response among Ohio’s neighbors
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s leadership during the coronavirus pandemic has garnered national attention, particularly in contrast to President Donald Trump’s mixed messages and slow response as the pandemic has unfurled nationally. DeWine has taken swift action to close schools, ban large gatherings, close businesses, and even this week to go as far as to defy […]
Ohio Attorney General says courts may suspend jury trials during pandemic
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost issued a formal opinion Wednesday that courts may suspend jury trials to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, and that they may do so consistent with state and federal speedy-trial obligations, a press release announced. “Only the trial court can continue a case,” Yost said. “This opinion is a […]