The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020, by President Donald Trump in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ohio, like other states, was given a portion of the $150 billion relief fund allocated for states and cities to assist them in responding to the pandemic and its economic consequences.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Treasury on April 22, 2020, to receive the state’s portion of the CARES Act relief funding. The state received a total of $4.5 billion, with $2.7 billion going to the state government and $1.8 billion going to local governments across the state.

The funding was intended to help Ohio respond to the COVID-19 pandemic by addressing public health needs, supporting businesses and individuals impacted by the economic downturn, and aiding local governments with lost revenue due to the pandemic.

The funds were distributed to various programs and initiatives across the state, including unemployment benefits, small business grants and loans, and funding for public health initiatives such as testing and contact tracing.

Ohio also used CARES Act funding to support schools and universities with the transition to remote learning, providing laptops and internet access to students in need, and funding for personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline workers.

Overall, the CARES Act provided critical support to Ohio and other states during a difficult time, helping to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic on public health and the economy. Its provisions helped millions of Americans stay afloat during uncertain times, and continue to have lasting impacts on communities across the country.

In conclusion, Ohio signed the CARES Act agreement on April 22, 2020, and received a total of $4.5 billion in relief funding to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding provided assistance to businesses, individuals, and local governments across the state, and helped Ohio respond to the pandemic and its economic consequences.