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Local
The Athens Disabilities Commission has threatened to sue the city if it doesn’t address accessibility issues by November 1. City officials argue that a lawsuit would divert funds from planned improvements. (The New Political)
Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine received an $8 million federal grant to build a biomedical research facility to coordinate its work in applying scientific discoveries to human health. (Ohio University)
The State of Ohio has allocated $120,000 to Rural Action to address damage caused by acid mine drainage in the Sunday Creek Watershed. The project aims to improve water quality and restore habitats by removing invasive species and planting native flora. (WOUB)
Regional
Memorial Health System has begun construction on Southeast Ohio’s first women and children’s hospital in Belpre, set to open in 2026. (WOSU)
State
Ohio has new voting rules since the 2020 presidential election, including a requirement for photo ID to vote as well as restrictions on who can help voters with disabilities vote. (Statehouse News Bureau)
On a 4–3 party-line vote, the Ohio Supreme Court declined to rule directly on whether state ballot drop box restrictions affecting voters with disabilities violate state law. (Ohio Capital Journal)
Education advocates argue that Ohio Issue 1 could shift lawmakers’ focus from culture wars and private school vouchers to fully funding public schools. They believe fairer districts will lead to more equitable representation and better policy outcomes for public schools. (Ohio Capital Journal)
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit upheld Ohio’s law banning green card holders from contributing to election campaigns, despite ongoing legal challenges. The decision is a part of a broader debate over the First Amendment rights of lawful permanent residents with green cards. (Statehouse News Bureau)
A recent study shows that youth suicide rates have increased in states with anti-transgender laws, including Ohio. Advocates argue these laws contribute to a hostile environment for trans youth that exacerbate mental health issues. (Buckeye Flame)
