All information is current as of The Scoop’s production on Tuesday morning. Click the links for the most up-to-date information. The Athens County Independent believes the cited sources of information are reliable; however, these sources are responsible for the accuracy of their own reporting.
Submit news and information to info@athensindependent.com by noon on Mondays for inclusion in Tuesday’s issue of The Scoop.
Local
Since 2015, Athens Food Rescue has delivered over 315,000 pounds of food to local pantries and kitchens. Recently, they provided cooking supplies and appliances to local food programs with a donation from QuidelOrtho. (Athens Messenger)
Although opioid overdose deaths decreased nationwide between 2022 and 2023, deaths in Athens County increased from 26 to 33 deaths. The Athens Health Department is focusing on education and harm reduction programs to address the ongoing issue. (The Post)
Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine secured the top spot in the National Institute of Health’s funding among U.S. osteopathic medical schools for fiscal year 2024. Over the last year, OU researchers received more than $11.5 million in awards. (Ohio University)
Regional
The Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub – part of a Biden administration initiative to create jobs and reduce carbon emissions – is facing significant challenges. A third of its projects have been scrapped and several development partners have backed out due to economic concerns. These issues highlight the difficulties in establishing a viable hydrogen economy in the region despite substantial federal funding. (Inside Climate News)
State
Ohio’s poverty rate held steady from 2023 to 2024, at 13.4%. Children experience both poverty and food insecurity at higher rates in the state. (Statehouse News Bureau)
As of Friday, more than 660,000 Ohioans had already voted in this year’s election. (Ohio Capital Journal)
A Republican-sponsored state bill proposes penalizing immigrants who enter Ohio without federal legal status. The bill would make entering the state a felony, with those convicted to face a one-year prison sentence and hefty fines. The bill aims to deter illegal immigration but faces significant constitutional questions as well as legal and practical challenges. (Statehouse News Bureau)
A new report shows a 189% increase in anti-LBGTQ+ incidents in Ohio over the past year, prompting calls for stronger protections and political attention. (The Buckeye Flame)
