South Ohio News

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives has passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will allocate $350 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund. State Representative Justin Pizzulli, who represents Scioto County, announced that more than $5 million of this funding will directly serve Scioto County and the surrounding communities.

Pizzulli expressed his excitement about the investment, stating, "I am excited to champion investment into the 90th district. These initiatives will strengthen the greater Appalachian region for generations to come."

The provisions put forth by Pizzulli will positively impact southeast Ohio. This includes $2.5 million to expand the Shawnee State University College of Health and Human Services, addressing the healthcare workforce crisis in the Appalachian region. Another $2 million will support the expansion of Appalachian Youth Behavioral Health Services, increasing accessibility to critical care for vulnerable southern Ohio children.

Furthermore, $323,150 will be allocated to purchase industry-required training equipment for the Portsmouth Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Trust, uplifting Ohio's workforce and equipping individuals with skills for success. Additionally, $300,000 will be used to modernize the Scioto County Fairgrounds, preserving electrical infrastructure and ensuring the safety of children and families.

The legislation also includes significant statewide capital investments. This includes $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund, $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program, $397.6 million for higher education projects across the state, and $250 million for local jail construction.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state's main operating budget last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. The Ohio House's conservative fiscal stewardship has allowed for the dedication of this excess funding to projects that will move Ohio forward.

This funding will be incorporated into the greater State Capital Budget bill, which is a two-year construction budget for capital projects.

In conclusion, Representative Justin Pizzulli has successfully secured $5 million for Scioto County and the surrounding communities through the passage of Substitute House Bill 2. These investments will address healthcare, behavioral health, workforce training, and infrastructure needs in the region. The Strategic Community Investment Fund will provide the necessary funding to move Ohio forward and strengthen the greater Appalachian region.