04/07/2020

COVID-19: The Daily Update from the Governor's Office

April 7, 2020

This is today's updates the press conference held by Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted and Dr. Amy Acton. In Ohio, there are 4,782 confirmed cases, 417 ICU admissions, 1,354 hospitalizations and 167 deaths as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

DeWine also announced the Ohio Liquor Control Commission passed an emergency rule to allow establishments with an existing on-premises liquor permit to sell and deliver alcohol, including high-proof liquor in limited quantity for off-premises consumption. Under the rule, patrons can purchase two unpackaged drinks per meal. All drinks must be closed and remain closed during transport as per open container law.

The governor also askied the Correctional Institution Inspection Committee (CIIC) to consider early-release for approximately 141 inmates from minimal security facilities to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Eligible inmates have a pending release date on or before July 13, 2020 and were not convicted of violent offenses. These inmates also did not have prior incarcerations in Ohio, inter-state offenses, warrants or detainers, serious prison rule violations in the last five years nor were they denied judicial release in the past.

DeWine is also asking the CIIC to consider early-release for 26 inmates who are 60 years or older and have one or more chronic health condition that makes them more vulnerable to COVID 19. Inmates were screened with the same criteria listed above. They also eliminated habitual offenders with two or more prior convictions.

Husted announced the creation of the Office of Small Business Relief to better coordinate efforts to identify and provide support for Ohio’s nearly 950,000 small businesses. This office will be housed within the Ohio Development Services Agency (DSA). Please select this link to visit the Office of Small Business Relief website. 

The Small Business Administration (SBA), in consultation with the Department of the Treasury, intends to provide timely additional guidance to address borrower and lender questions concerning the implementation of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), established by the CARES Act. Please select this link to review the FAQ the SBA has compiled.  

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) announced today that Ohioans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) who did not already receive the maximum monthly allotment for their household size in March, will be issued an additional payment beginning this week. SNAP-eligible households will also be able to pick up a pre-packaged box of food at their local food bank. This came after Ohio received federal approval to waive certain administrative verifications.