Ohio News & Current Events | Public News Service

The 2025 Allergy Capitals report ranks Toledo, Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati as the worst cities for allergy sufferers. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, April 17, 2025

Ohioans brace for the allergy season, seek relief

April showers bring May flowers. These signs of spring also mean a boost in pollen production from trees, grass, and weeds. Ohioans preparing for the …

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Wednesday, April 16, 2025

MAHA movement aims to reverse American farming policy

By Jessica Scott-Reid for Sentient.Broadcast version by Kathryn Carley for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabo…

The average American tax filer paid just under $3,000 to the Pentagon in 2024, with roughly 40 cents going toward

National tally shows military arsenal among OH taxpayers' top expenses

Ahead of Tax Day, a national receipt shows where some Ohio tax dollars were spent in 2024. War and weaponry remain top federal expenses, with the …

According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, 41% of beginning producers were female, as opposed to 36% of all U.S. producers. (Adobe Stock)

Congress aims to assist new farmers with accessing land in OH, nationwide

Ohio ranks fourth in the nation for the number of farms, with more than 75,000, and beginning farmers in the Buckeye State and nationwide may soon be …

State lawmakers and advocates estimated up to 600,000 Ohio drivers had suspensions related to unpaid fines and fees. (Graphic by Celina Fang/The Marshall Project)

New law clears path for Ohio drivers with unpaid fines

By Rachel Dissell and The Marshall Project for Signal Cleveland.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Signal O…

In 2024 alone, Ohio's rape crisis centers responded to more than 40,000 helpline calls and educated 95,000 Ohioans about sexual violence prevention efforts. (Talyr Ucker-Lauderman of OAESV)

Ohio advocacy day puts spotlight on sexual violence awareness

More than 100 people came to the Ohio Statehouse to mark National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month late last week. As part of the 13th …

Energy industry experts predict Ohio could lose 18,400 clean energy jobs by 2030 if Congress repeals the clean energy investment and tax credits included in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. (Adobe Stock)

Repeal of climate tax credits could cost thousands of Ohio jobs

Federal clean energy investment and tax credits have led to a surge of thousands of new jobs for Ohioans but a budget bill pending in Congress could b…

The International Renewable Energy Certificate site says 370,000 Ohio homes are powered by solar energy. (Adobe Stock)

OH environmental group fears federal cuts will hurt job opportunities

More protest rallies are occurring in response to President Donald Trump's executive orders alongside Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency…

Since March 8, the Trump administration has attempted to arrest or deport at least six additional pro-Palestinian foreign students across four campuses, including Columbia, Cornell, Georgetown and Tufts universities. (Adobe Stock)

Arrest of U. of Cincinnati student fuels national free speech debate

UPDATE: A statement about the arrest from the University of Cincinnati has been added. (8:10 a.m. MDT, Apr. 3, 2025) A recent arrest on the …

A 2023 CDC study found 72% of transgender students and 69% of questioning students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio's new law: What it means for educators, LGBTQ+ students

By Vanessa Davidson / Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi reporting for the Kent State NewsLab-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. Ohio’s House …

More than 57% of Black women of reproductive age live in states with abortion bans or impending bans, according to polling by In Our Own Voice. (Adobe Stock)

Reproductive justice takes more than passing laws in Ohio, U.S.

By Jade Prévost-Manuel for Yes! Media.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Yes! Media-Public News …

Ohio's median home price increased by 14% from 2020 to 2024, making affordability a growing factor in migration decisions. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio struggles to retain young adults

By Vanessa Davidson / Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi reporting for the Kent State-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. Around 1,000 more people …

Last fall, a study group recommended Ohio close its three remaining youth prisons and replace them with smaller facilities. (Adobe Stock/AI)

Report: OH RECLAIM a model for juvenile justice reform in other states

A new report examined differences in state juvenile justice system financing, looking at how local control can improve outcomes. The report…

The Cupp-Patterson plan was originally offered as a bill in the Ohio Legislature, but instead was written into the state budget with a six-year implementation schedule. Full funding of $2 million, and full implementation, must be part of each state budgeting process. (Adobe Stock)

Debate intensifies over major cuts to Ohio's Fair School Funding Plan

At the Ohio Statehouse, proposed budget cuts to the Fair School Funding Plan have sparked debate among lawmakers and educators. Also known as the …

A C5 Galaxy cargo jet taxis to the runway at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Green County, Ohio, which employs more than 20,000 federal workers. (Adobe Stock)

Federal job cuts could affect thousands of Ohio workers

A report indicated layoffs in federal agencies by the ad hoc Department of Government Efficiency could affect a significant number of Ohioans and subs…

In a new AARP survey, 37% of older adults with credit card debt report their debt level is higher now than it was a year ago. (Adobe Stock)

Older Ohioans struggle with rising credit card debt

Nearly half of Americans age 50 and older are using credit cards to pay for basic living expenses, according to a new AARP survey but experts said …

According to the Doula Advisory Group, as of February, 87 of Ohio's 88 counties had no doulas certified under the state's new program. (Adobe Stock)

Doula access in Ohio at risk in Nursing Board certification controversy

Tensions are rising in Ohio between doulas and the state Board of Nursing, as only a small number of doulas have been able to be certified for …

Between 2010 and 2018, Ohio's nonmetropolitan areas experienced a 7.6% job growth-nearly 10 times the national average for rural regions.(Adobe Stock)

Ohio's rural Gen Z faces job dilemma: Will talent stay or go?

New research indicated less than half of rural Gen Zers believe they can find a good job in their communities. Despite Ohio's predominantly rural …

Ohio Senate Bill 1 would require all students to complete a three-credit-hour American history course. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio's SB-1 parallels national administration's anti-DEI sentiment

Debates over academic freedom and diversity initiatives have intensified nationally and in Ohio. Senate Bill 1, known as the Advance Ohio Higher …

Ohio ranks 46th in the nation for renewable energy generation, with solar and wind accounting for less than 4% of the state's electricity production, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio Supreme Court case could set precedent for solar energy projects

By Kathiann M. Kowalski for Canary Media.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-…

The Department of Education has reduced its workforce by nearly 50%, laying off approximately 1,300 employees, with an additional 600 either accepting separation packages or being dismissed during their probationary period. (Photo courtesy of OEA)

Ohio educators alarmed over proposed elimination of DOE

The potential dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education has sparked concern in Ohio. Threatened moves by the Trump administration's so-called …

PVC pipes are commonly joined by elastomeric sealing connections or solvent cement. These solvent cements can expose workers to hazardous chemicals such as tetrahydrofuran, a carcinogen. (Adobe Stock)

Fixing one problem, creating another? Ohio's lead pipe replacements

Ohioans are seeing changes in their water infrastructure as cities work to replace lead service lines, a requirement under federal regulations…

Federal agencies are ramping up efforts to contain avian flu, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture rolling out a $1 billion plan focused on biosecurity, financial relief for affected producers and research into possible vaccines for poultry. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio leads nation in bird flu cases, consumers face rising costs

A Food and Water Watch report claims Ohio egg producers are profiting from the bird flu outbreak. Ohio, a top egg producer, has lost nearly 15 …

Family caregivers spend on average more than $7,200 annually - 26% of their income - on out-of-pocket expenses. (Adobe Stock)

Doubling down on care: Ohio’s push for caregiver tax relief

In a significant development for family caregivers across America, AARP is spearheading initiatives at both federal and state levels to provide tax …

Immigrants in Ohio pay $7 billion a year in taxes and have a spending power of $20 billion contributing significantly to the state's economy. (Adobe Stock)

Research shows economic impact of deportation in Ohio, U.S.

As nationwide deportation efforts continue, new research examined how past policies have shaped the economy and what could happen if the Trump …

A solar project in Dayton was made possible through a solar-power purchase agreement with IGS Energy, approved by the Dayton City Commission last Wednesday after a four-year evaluation process, including a feasibility study to ensure sufficient power capacity. (Yeivaz/Adobe Stock)

Ohio cities embrace solar energy with Dayton's first utility-scale array

Ohio is seeing a growing number of solar energy projects, including the first utility-scale installation in Dayton, which will help power a key water …

The Ohio Supreme Court has ruled four times, starting with the DeRolph decision in 1997, that the state's method of funding schools violates the state constitution, prompting ongoing efforts to reform the system. (jovannig/Adobe Stock)

Multiyear fight for fair school funding in Ohio continues

Despite being four years into Ohio's six-year Fair School Funding Plan, it has yet to receive full funding. Advocates of the plan are pushing for …

In Ohio, Medicaid covers nearly 40% of births and provides health care for one in four residents, including low-income families, seniors and people with disabilities. (Adobe Stock)

Medicaid cuts in Ohio: Who would pay the price?

Medicaid cuts being proposed in Congress could have widespread consequences in Ohio, particularly for hospitals and health-care facilities across the …

The 2023 Ohio Annual Cancer Report shows Lawrence, Washington, Adams and Jackson counties had the highest rates of cancer per 100,000 residents between 2016 and 2020. (Adobe Stock)

OH cancer rates linked to processed food, low physical activity

Cancer rates are on the rise, and doctors are noticing specific types in younger age groups. There are more than 100 different types of cancer with …

In Ohio, you can lock your EBT card when not in use using the ConnectEBT app. (Adobe Stock)

EBT skimming scandal: No reimbursement for Ohioans who lose SNAP benefits

Thousands of Ohioans relying on SNAP benefits to feed their families are finding their accounts drained due to electronic skimming fraud. Criminals …

Samples taken in 2017 by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources found increased radioactivity after a commercial deicing liquid (oil and gas brine) was applied to roadways. (Siri Lawson, Farmington Township, Warren County)

OH Statehouse symposium to address oil, gas waste on rural roads

Concerns are growing in Ohio over the use of oil and gas waste for dust control on rural roads, a practice some environmental groups argued is …

At least 24 people have died at Ohio's Cuyahoga County Jail since 2018. (Juan Bernabeu/The Marshall Project)

Accountability demanded amid training failures as OH jail deaths scrutinized

Medical neglect inside Ohio's jails is under scrutiny following the release of a new toolkit by The Marshall Project to aid in investigating in-custod…

The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority is partnering with energy company Enbridge and the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub, or ARCH2, to make fuel at its Ohio site using solar power. (Kathiann M. Kowalski/Canary Media)

Ohio regional transit group plans shift to 'green' hydrogen for bus fleet

By Kathiann M. Kowalski for Canary Media.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-…

Ohio is home to more than 83,000 federal employees. All of them reportedly recently received an email from the Office of Personnel Management, asking for details on what they accomplish at work. (Tony Webster/Wikimedia Commons)

DOGE, OPM demands shake up federal workers in OH and beyond

The federal workforce in Ohio numbers more than 83,000 and many say they're reeling after weeks of job cuts and a demand from Elon Musk, his …

Energy site NationalGrid.com reported storage sites for CO2 emissions should be 0.62 miles or more underground. (Adobe Stock)

OH residents watching bills proposing carbon-dioxide storage under homes

A bill which could approve the injection of large amounts of carbon emissions or industrial carbon dioxide into underground Ohio wells is raising conc…

Ohio's agriculture industry contributes more than $124 billion annually to the state's economy, supporting more than one in eight jobs statewide. (stockbusters/Adobe Stock)

JD Vance’s agriculture agenda: What’s next for Ohio farmers?

With President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance now in office, Ohio's farming community is watching closely to see how their policies could …

The advocacy group Power a Clean Future Ohio said it is dedicated to ensuring every community has clean air, clean energy and clean transportation, no matter your ZIP Code or the color of your skin. (Sherman Cahal/Adobe Stock)

Ohio communities at risk amid EPA's program cuts

The Trump administration has begun dismantling the Environmental Protection Agency's office working to reducing environmental harms in minority and lo…

According to the Ohio Attorney General's office, there are 119 people on death row in the state. (Adobe Stock)

ACLU Ohio calls for standalone death penalty legislation

The ACLU of Ohio is calling for a repeal of the state's current death penalty laws, but some conservative state lawmakers have another idea. House …

Columbus police reported more than 800 felony domestic-violence incidents in the city last year. (Pascal Huot/Adobe Stock)

Ohio's domestic-violence advocates struggle amid DeWine's proposed budget

Gov. Mike DeWine's recently released biennial budget keeps funding for domestic violence services at $20 million, maintaining the same level as the …

Studies show about 5% of adults in the U.S. experience seasonal affective disorder, in which people encounter mood changes and symptoms similar to depression. (Adobe Stock)

Health experts advise sunshine, sports, socializing to beat 'winter blues'

Ohioans may find mid- to late-winter challenging due to short days, cold weather, and postholiday letdowns and they are not alone. The American …

Last year, Ohio's food bank networks provided more than 244 million meals to households representing nearly 16 million people -- including over 4.8 million children and 3.2 million seniors -- a number expected to rise if federal SNAP benefits are reduced. (HASPhotos/Adobe Stock)

OH food banks face fed funding uncertainty, DeWine budget cuts

Recent federal executive orders have left many organizations in Ohio navigating uncertainty, particularly when it comes to funding for essential …

A 2017 Technology Risk Assessment by the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives found the potential returns on waste gasification are smaller and more uncertain, than the risks of gasification and pyrolysis. Vicky Abou-Ghalioum of the Buckeye Environmental Network identified explosion risks of pyrolysis. (Yellow Boat/Adobe Stock)

Pushback grows as Ohio EPA approves controversial plastic incineration plant

Ohio residents gathered in Youngstown late last week to protest the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's decision to grant an operational permit to …

More than 11,500 scholars were served in CDF Freedom Schools over 36 states and nearly 200 program sites during 2023. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month

As Black History Month continues, advocacy groups in Ohio are pushing for policies that benefit children from all backgrounds. They emphasize the …

If passed, Senate Bill 1 would prohibit public universities from requiring diversity, equity and inclusion training for students, faculty and staff. Event photo credit Ohio Student Association.

Students protest as Ohio Senate weighs higher-ed overhaul

Ohio Senate Bill 1 is drawing strong reactions across the state, particularly from students in higher education. The bill, which its supporters say …

With the inclusion of workforce certificates and certifications, Ohio's overall rate of educational attainment has increased by 18.1% since 2009. (Adobe Stock)

Study: OH working adults need more education to gain employment skills

According to research from Lumina Foundation, the rate of U.S. high school seniors seeking higher education is on the upswing. Although Ohio student …

Advocates for surveillance cameras point to a Swedish nonprofit organization, which learned through a series of randomized experiments 20-25% less crime is committed when they are present. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Do rest stop cameras in Ohio increase safety or infringe on privacy?

By Hevin Wilkey / Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi reporting for the Kent State-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. Some Ohio legislators want to …

Large cattle operations on factory farms are one of the largest producers of methane emissions, one of the primary components of greenhouse gases driving climate change. (Adobe Stock/AI)

Scientists debate best farming methods to reduce effects of climate change

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaborat…

Data from the consulting firm My Perfect Resume's

Ohio workers weigh job stability against work-life balance

Americans working multiple jobs to cover living expenses has become increasingly common and Ohioans are no exception. According to U.S. Census data…

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