COLUMBUS — Governor DeWine delivered his first State of the State address in three years.
DeWine canceled the last two years because of the COVID-19 crisis and health issues.
He spoke to the Ohio General Assembly and Ohioans about his vision as the state comes out of the pandemic.
>> New Ohio gun law divides Ohioans; some celebrating, others concerned with safety
DeWine made it clear that the pandemics impacts are exposing how far Ohio and the nation are in treating mental and emotional health issues.
COVID lockdowns made the problems worse and more evident to everyone.
He plans to create a mental and emotional health program called “OHIO Rise” in three steps. Building a larger behavioral health workforce, increasing research and innovation and increasing community capacity for care, both crisis care and counseling.
“My friend, Ohio can be the model for the nation and the world,” he said.
DeWine made it clear he realizes law enforcement has carried a large portion of dealing with people struggling with mental health issues.
It’s one reason He said Ohio will not be involved in any defunding of police.
>> 2 boys admitted to intensive care; mother facing 9 charges related to suspected abuse
“We’re doubling down our support for law enforcement by giving them more resources to keep the people of Ohio Safe,” DeWine said.
DeWine did not speak much about gun rights or gun control, despite just signing a law that loosens restrictions on concealed carry.
He also had little to say about the COVID crisis he led the state through over the last two years, making some decisions that angered members of his own party.
He did want to focus on Ohio’s economic future. He claimed his administration has slashed spending and lowered taxes. He believes it’s one of the reasons businesses want to come to Ohio.
He pointed to the recent announcement by Intel Corporation that they will build two fabrication plants, investing $20 billion dollars just in the first phase near Columbus.
“This will impact not just Central Ohio but the whole state as many of their suppliers will be moving to Ohio,” DeWine said.
Governor DeWine hopes to speak to residents of Dayton and the state four more times in State of the State speeches if he’s re-elected this fall.
His opponent for that re-election race is likely to be former Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley.