Abrams Announces $425 Million In CARES Act Funding For Ohio

A majority of the funding will go towards supporting small businesses and higher education.

(Columbus, Oh.) – The Ohio State Controlling Board has approved $425 million in federal CARES Act funding to support Ohioans impacted by COVID-19.

State Rep. Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) says the funding will support small businesses, higher education, rural hospitals, non-profit unemployment, the arts, and rent and mortgage assistance.

Distribution will begin with $125 million for small business grants, which will allow small businesses to apply for up to $10,000 in relief.

Another $100 million will go to higher education to assist with added expenses due to COVID-19.

The rest of the funding will go towards the following:

• $62 million for rural/critical access hospitals
• $55 million for rent, mortgage and utility assistance to be administered by the DSA through various Community Action Agencies
• $38 million in liquor permit rebates
• $25 million for non-profit unemployment
• $20 million to support the arts

“I’m pleased to announce this significant financial support, which will save jobs and businesses during these trying times,” said Abrams. “Many industries and families throughout Ohio are hurting from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s vital we help keep them afloat.”

Details and eligibility information on the Small Business Relief Grant, Home Relief Grant, and the Bar and Restaurant Assistance Fund are available at https://businesshelp.ohio.gov/. Ohioans can begin applying for the relief funding on November 2.