Ohio kindergarten teachers complete a standardized Kindergarten Readiness Assessment for each student at the beginning of every school year to show the child's level of readiness.

Students' skills are evaluated in a variety of categories, including academic, social-emotional and physical.

Scores fall into one of three categories of readiness: Demonstrating is the highest, Approaching is the middle tier, and Emerging is the lowest.

In the 2022-2023 school year, 35.4% of kindergarten students demonstrated readiness, according to the test scores. 34.5% scored as "approaching" readiness, and 30.1% of scores fell into the "emerging" category, meaning nearly two-thirds of kindergarteners were not ready for the classroom.

“Kids who are ready at the kindergarten level, who have access to quality early childhood experiences, have higher attainment, earn more and have better health. Not just right out of school, but through their life course,” said Lynanne Gutierrez, Chief Policy and Operating Officer at Groundwork Ohio, a Columbus nonprofit that advocates for Ohioans five and younger.

Gutierrez points to the lack of affordable, quality early childcare available to a growing number of families, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. The ODE data shows 21% of children from economically disadvantaged families demonstrated readiness on the KRA in 2022. Results were similar for Black and Hispanic students, according to the data.

“The more trauma that’s in a child’s life, the more we see behavior challenges," said Meredith Schilling, a team lead Pre-K teacher at the Ohio State University's A. Sophie Rogers School. "Given that everyone’s had this trauma because of the pandemic, and most of the children in our classrooms don’t have a working memory before the pandemic, they’re all experiencing a level of trauma to some degree.”

Schilling has taught at the school for 17 years, and says her job has become more challenging in recent years as students respond to the trauma of the pandemic in different ways, and her colleagues leave for higher-paying jobs.

"I think it's very concerning," Schilling said. "I think we need to invest more in children and teachers and in families."

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Ohio's Pre-K teachers are among the lowest-paid in the country, making an average salary of $24,540 to $32,220 in 2022.

“There are so many challenges to overcome, and the expectations on professionals who make on average $12 an hour is almost insurmountable,” Gutierrez said.

The biannual state budget that lawmakers are still finalizing includes more money than in years past for early childhood programs. The most recent version as passed by the Senate includes less than the versions proposed by Governor Mike DeWine and passed by the House.

The voluntary recall comes from Sunrise Grower's Inc and includes specific frozen fruit products linked to pineapple that may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes.

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in children, elderly people, and others that may have weakened immune systems.

Symptoms in healthy people may only be short-term and could include high fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. However, the infection can cause pregnant women to have miscarriages or stillbirths.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, these products were distributed to the following retailers:

• Walmart: Great Value Mixed Fruit, Great Value Dark Sweet Cherries, and Great Value Mango Chunks sold at stores in Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Washington, D.C., Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming from Jan. 19, 2023, to June 13, 2023
• Whole Foods: 365 Organic Tropical Fruit Medley, 365 Organic Pineapple Chunks, 365 Pineapple Chunks, 365 Organic Whole Strawberries, 365 Organic Slice Strawberries and Bananas, and 365 Organic Blackberries distributed to select stores throughout the U.S. from Nov. 1, 2022, to June 21, 2023
• Trader Joe’s: Trader Joe’s Organic Tropical Fruit Blend distributed to select distribution centers or stores in Alaska, Alabama, Connecticut, Colorado, Washington, D.C., Delaware Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, and Wisconsin from March 28, 2023, to April 11, 2023

• Target: Good & Gather Organic Cherries and Berries Fruit Blend, Good & Gather Dark Sweet Whole Pitted Cherries, Good & Gather Mango Strawberry Blend, Good & Gather Mixed Fruit Blend, Good & Gather Mango Chunks, Good & Gather Blueberries, and Good & Gather Triple Berry Blend distributed nationwide from Oct. 14, 2022, to May 22, 2023
• Aldi: Season’s Choice Tropical Blend distributed to select distribution centers or stores in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia from Oct. 11, 2022, to May 22, 2023
• AWG (Associated Wholesale Grocers): Best Choice Pitted Red Tart Cherries Unsweetened distributed to select distribution centers or stores in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma from April 5, 2023, to May 4, 2023

To see all stores, brands, lot codes, and expiration dates, click here.

So far, no illnesses have been reported, the FDA said.

Consumers with these products should not consume them. Instead, they should either throw them away or return them to the store of purchase for a full refund.

Saying "our commitment to food safety remains our utmost priority," Sunrise Growers has ended all future business transactions with the third-party supplier.

2023 Northeast Ohio fireworks displays by city:

Akron

When: Tuesday, July 4, 9:45 p.m.

Where: Lock 3, Patterson Park Sports Complex, Akron Executive Airport

The Rib, White and Blue Festival returns this year at Lock 3. The festival comes to a close on the Fourth of July with a downtown fireworks display set to launch right after the Akron RubberDucks game ends around 9:45 p.m. Other neighborhood fireworks displays will be launched from Patterson Park Sports Complex and the Akron Executive Airport at 9:45 p.m.

For more information about the Rib, White and Blue Festival at Lock 3, click here.

Ashland

When: Tuesday, July 4

Where: Ashland Community Stadium

The Rotary Club of Ashland is once again putting on the city’s large fireworks display at Community Stadium. According to its website, the display is going to be higher up in the sky than usual. The rain date is set for July 5.

Aurora

When: Tuesday, July 4

Where: Kiwanis-Moore Park, 35 West Pioneer Trail

The city’s July 4 fun run, parade and festival events will culminate in fireworks on Tuesday evening at dusk. Find more about the event right here.

Avon

When: Monday, July 3

The city of Avon and the Lake Erie Crushers will shoot off fireworks, in conjunction with each other, on July 3. More here.

Avon Lake

When: Tuesday, July 4 at 10 p.m.

Where: Weiss Field, 33401 Webber Road

This show is free and open to the public. The event starts at 5 p.m. and includes live music, food trucks, and obviously, fireworks. Find out more right here.

Bay Village

When: Tuesday, July 4 at 9:45 p.m.

Where: Cahoon Memorial Park, at Lake and Cahoon Roads

As part of Bay Days, running June 30 & July 1 and July 3 & 4, a community fireworks display is scheduled for Independence Day. Find out more right here.

Berea

When: Tuesday, July 4, 10 p.m.

Where: Coe Lake Park, 85 South Rocky River Drive

Free and open to the public, the two-day Grindstone Festival on the lake includes live music, inflatables and paddle boats and ends with a huge fireworks display Tuesday night. Find out more right here.

Brunswick

When: Monday, July 3, dusk

Where: Brunswick High School, 3553 Center Road

People are encouraged to gather by 9:15 p.m. as the fireworks hit the air at dusk. Find out more right here.

Canton

When: Monday, July 3 at 9:50 p.m.

Where: McKinley Presidential Library & Museum

The monument grounds will be open starting at 7 p.m., with entertainment expected to begin at 7:30 p.m. There will be live music, food trucks and vendors. The fireworks display is set to begin at 9:50 p.m.

Cleveland

When: Tuesday, July 4 at 10 p.m.

Where: Port of Cleveland: Dock 20

Light up the Lake 4th of July fireworks hosted by Downtown Cleveland, Inc. and North Coast Harbor has a free watch party at Voinovich Park with a DJ, games, activities and food trucks.

Fireworks can be seen from Voinovich Park, The Flats East Bank and West Bank, Whiskey Island, Wendy Park, Edgewater Park, Kirtland Park, Superior Viaduct, Settlers Landing and more. For more information, click here.

Cuyahoga Falls

When: July 2 - 4

Where: Blossom Music Center, 1145 W Steels Corners Road.

Blossom Music Center has music, fireworks and fun for the whole family July 2 - 4. Buy tickets here.

Fairport Harbor

When: Sunday, July 2, dusk

Where: Lake Metroparks Fairport Harbor Beachfront

Watch live fireworks soaring on the edge of Lake Erie in honor of Independence Day. Find out more about the event right here.

Hudson

When: Sunday, July 2 at dusk

Where: Barlow Farm Park

The City of Hudson’s annual Independence Day Fireworks Celebration is back. The fireworks display is presented by the Hudson Community Foundation. Click here for more info. 

Lakewood

When: Tuesday, July 4, 9:45 p.m.

Where: Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Avenue

The City of Lakewood’s Fourth of July festivities include a parade, concert and, of course, fireworks for more information about all the activities, click here.

Mentor

When: Tuesday, July 4 around 10 p.m.

Where: Mentor Civic Amphitheater, 8600 Munson Road

Entertainment will perform on the main stage at the Mentor Civic Amphitheater at 8 p.m. Fireworks will begin after the performance and can be viewed from Civic Center Park and Mentor High School. Find out more about the event right here.

Niles

When: Tuesday, July 4, after the game

Where: Eastwood Field, 111 Eastwood Mall Boulevard

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers baseball team is hosting fireworks after the 7:05 p.m. game that night. Find out more here.

North Ridgeville

When: Monday, July 3

Where: Victory Park Ohio, 7777 Victory Lane

The Freedom Festival is a ticketed event for the whole family full of entertainment and fireworks at 10 p.m. The Freedom Festival starts at 4 p.m. Find out more about the day’s festivities right here.

Orrville

When: Saturday, July 8

Where: Orr Park, 440 N. Elm Street

You can find softball, a parade and fireworks in Orville July 6 - 8. Fireworks end out the three-day event Saturday night at 10:15 p.m. Find out more about the free festivities right here.

Salem

When: Monday, July 3

Where: Waterworth Memorial Park

While the fireworks kick off around 9:30 p.m., prior to that, the Salem festival is offering entertainment and food at the park. Find out more about the event right here.

Sandusky

When: Tuesday, July 4

Where: Cedar Point, 1 Cedar Point Drive

Cedar Point’s Light Up the Point fireworks extravaganza is back this Independence Day. The display is expected to start around 10 p.m., as in the past. Find a bunch more details right here.

Spencer

When: Tuesday, July 4 at dusk

Where: Spencer, Ohio

Festivities begin with a festival from July 1-3. On the 4th of July, the day begins with a parade starting on School Lane and Washington Street. For a full list of festivities, click here.

Strongsville

When: Tuesday, July 4 at 9:30 p.m.

Where: City Commons, corner of Pearl and Royalton Roads

The city will offer family-friendly activities before the main event (fireworks!) hits around 9:30 p.m. Find out more about the event that starts at 6:30 p.m. right here.

Westlake

When: Tuesday, July 4 at dusk

Where: Clague Park

The parade kicks off on Dover Center Road and Hilliard at 10 a.m. The parade route continues east on Hilliard and ends at Clague Park. Following the parade is a classic car show at Clague Park, where there will be food vendors. For more details and a full list of the day's activities, click here.

Willoughby

When: Tuesday, July 4, 9:45 p.m.

Where: Downtown Willoughby

The fireworks are being launched off of Pelton Road, but the city recommends spectators check out the following locations for optimal viewing: Todd Field, Willoughby Municipal Court, Andrews Osborne Academy Lawn and Fine Arts Association Lawn. Find out more about the day’s festivities right here.

Wooster

When: Monday, July 4, 5 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

Where: Corner of Burbank and Oldman Roads, Wooster

While the fireworks kick off around 10 p.m., prior to that, the Wooster festival is offering entertainment and food on the soccer fields. Find out more about the event right here.

Know of a celebration in your community that should be added to this list? Please email tips@fox8.com with details of the event, a link to the website and the word ‘FIREWORKS’ in the subject line.

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) -- Swifties heading down to Cincinnati for Taylor Swift's "Eras Tour" are ready for their "Wildest Dreams" to come true. We have you covered on everything you need to know to make sure your time before, during and after the concert is "Enchanted."

General Information for Swifties

Are you "Ready for It?" Taylor will be performing at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati on Friday, June 30 and Saturday, July 1. On both nights, doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and the show is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m.

Before Swift takes the stage, the singer-songwriter will have two openers - MUNA and Gracie Abrams.

When the icon takes the stage, she will perform numerous songs from various albums. Attendees will be looking out for are the two surprise songs.

Capital FM reports that her setlist has included the following songs at various tour stops so far throughout the country:

• "Cruel Summer"
• "You Need to Calm Down"
• "You Belong With Me"
• "'champagne problems"
• "...Ready For It?"
• "Enchanted"
• "22"
• "All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor's Version) (From the Vault)"
• "Style"
• "Karma"
• and many more.

Ticket Trouble

In Nov. 2022, select Swifties received codes through an online lottery and sat through "The Great War" in a chance at attempting to score tickets through Ticketmaster. People from across the country looked to get tickets during the Verified Fan sale, but so many bots and Swifties overwhelmed the system, the website ultimately crashed. Many people were left with "Sweet Nothing."

When some fans finally received access to selecting tickets, prices for some were "Bigger Than The Whole Sky." The ticket company had both a Capitol One presale and a General Public sale scheduled. The Capitol One sale was postponed to a prior date, while the General Public sale was canceled.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost provided information on individuals with "Bad Blood." Scammers are targeting people looking for tickets, but are ending up paying for very expensive tickets.

Some interested fans could end up with "Sweet Nothing" if purchasing from a non-reputable source. Verified fans through Ticketmaster that have been chosen could receive a code to have the opportunity to purchase tickets here. Selected fans should receive a message alerting them of their late chance to get tickets.

Merchandise For Sale

Merchandise for Swift is like a "Gold Rush." Taylor released an all-new collection of "Eras Tour" merchandise, which frequently sells out online and in-person at the merchandise stand at the tour.

Some of the listed items for sale on her official website include:

• T-Shirts
• Crewnecks
• Hoodies
• Tote Bags
• Stickers
• Decals
• Tour Poster
• Guitar Picks
• and so much more

At the stadium, there is likely a certain quantity of items you will be allowed to select from. Click here to view all of the "Eras Tour" and all of the available merchandise from each era.

Stadium Policies

When you visit Paycor, you are asked to not bring any bags. Paycor has a "Clear Bag Policy," which means most bags are not allowed. Bags including fanny packs, purses larger than a clutch, camera bags and many others are prohibited.

To see the full policy, visit their bag safety website.

Lodging and Traveling Near Paycor Stadium

If you are looking to stay at a nearby hotel, you are likely going to be looking somewhere outside of downtown. About all of the hotels, including Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, Radisson Cincinnati Riverfront and many more are sold out from June 30 to July 2.

There are very few nearby lodging options that are still available, according to their websites, but you will be paying an above-average price. Hampton Inn Cincinnati Airport-North has an opening for a non-smoking room that includes one king bed with a Whirlpool. If you are wanting to choose the non-smoking option or somewhere else that may have an opening, you should book sooner than later.

It is expected the downtown Cincinnati area will be jampacked with Swifties from across many states. 2 NEWS reached out to Cincinnati Police Department for comment on road closures, but has yet to hear back. We will update this section when we hear back.

Nightly Mayhem

At the 2022 MTV VMAs, Swift announced for fans to "Meet Me At Midnight," where she announced her "Midnights" album. Once she had announced her album, she would release song titles by picking up a rotary phone and speaking the title of the song and releasing a video on social media platforms.

On Oct. 21, 2022, the album was released to the public. "Midnights (3 am Edition)" was released around 3 a.m. following the release of the original "Midnights" album.

Since the initial two releases, the "Midnights (The Til Dawn Edition)" album was released. Both the 3 a.m. edition and "(The Til Dawn Edition)" features additional songs not found on the original edition released.

What's Next?

The Grammy award-winning singer is re-releasing all of her 'stolen' albums after her former manager sold the rights to her discography. Since her announcement of saying she was thinking about re-recording her albums, "Fearless (Taylor's Version)" and "Red (Taylor's Version)" has been re-recorded and re-released as her own.

At Blondie's Nashville stop on the tour in May, she announced she was going to be releasing "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)," which will be out on Sunday, July 9.

On Tuesday, June 20, Taylor announced dates for the international tour. As of now, the musician will leave the country and head to Mexico later this year for a performance on Aug. 24 and end the international leg of the tour on Aug. 17, 2024 in London.

The four events offering free ice cream will start on June 24 at Cleveland Fire Station 41 located at 3090 East 116th Street next to Luke Easter Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

At the ice cream socials, there will be tables with fire safety tips and Safety Forces recruitment information. At the events, there will be elected officials, an appearance by Mayor Justin M. Bibb as well as representatives from City Dogs, Cleveland EMS, Cleveland Water, Cleveland Public Power, Red Cross and Cleveland Public Library.

More events this summer: 

• July 15: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Fire Station 20, 3765 Pearl Rd.
• July 29: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Fire Station 22, 7300 Superior Ave.
• August 5: 11 a.m. -3 p.m. at Fire Station 43, 4525 Rocky River Dr.

“Our Ice Cream Socials are a great chance for the community to meet Cleveland Firefighters in a non-emergency environment,” said Cleveland Fire Chief Anthony Luke. “Children can sit in the fire trucks, tour the stations and enjoy free hamburgers, hot dogs, and some delicious ice cream.”

According to the Cleveland Division of Fire, these ice cream social events are made possible by a donation from MetroHealth. The ice cream is also donated by Pierre’s and Honey Hut.

Before heading to the pool, check today's forecast here.

Akron

Perkins Woods Pool is currently under construction and is expected to open mid-Summer 2023.

Reservoir Park Pool will be open between June and August, weather permitting, with free admission. Pools are open Monday - Friday from 1 - 7 p.m. and Saturday from 1 - 5 p.m.     

Amherst

The pool at Maude Neidling Park is open from June 12 to August 13. Capacity is limited to 150 total daily admissions. Due to a nationwide shortage of lifeguards, the pool will be closed on Tuesday and Thursday. 

Bay Village

The Bay Village Family Aquatic Center has two slides, diving boards and a splash area.

Regular hours began on June 5.

Beachwood

Opening day was on Saturday, May 27.  The Beachwood Family Aquatic Center is open through August. Non-residents are permitted when accompanied by residents.

Berea

The Berea Municipal Pool is open daily from noon to 7 p.m., June 3 through August 13.

Chardon

The Chardon Pool is open for the season through August 11. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday from 12:15 - 8 p.m. and 11:15 - 8 p.m. on the weekends.

Cleveland

The city's pools opened for summer 2023 at noon on Saturday, June 10.

Each pool will be open from noon to 7:45 p.m. and close for an hour from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

But each pool will only be open on certain days of the week. Get the full schedule here.

Cleveland Heights

Cumberland Outdoor Pool's season is from June 5 through September 4.

Cuyahoga Falls

The Water Works Family Aquatic Center is open through August 12 at 6 p.m. Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays are just for season pass holders and their guests.

Elyria

The East Pool is open through mid-August. The North Pool is open June 12 - mid-August. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday 1 - 4:45 p.m.

Garfield Heights

The pool is open seven days a week from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Hinckley

Ledge Pool and Recreation Area is operated by the Cleveland Metroparks.

Independence

Passes for Elmwood Pool are available to residents. The pool opened on May 28.

Lakewood

The newly renovated Foster Pool at Lakewood Park opens on June 8, and Becks Pool at Madison Park opened on June 1.

Lyndhurst

The city operates the Lyndhurst Pool and Brainard Spray Park. They're open through Sept. 4.

Mayfield Village

The season for Parkview Pool is June 3 to Sept. 4. It has lanes and a waterslide.

Mentor

Mentor Civic Outdoor Pool is open daily from 1 - 8 p.m., June 5 through August 12.

Mentor Recreation also operates a free water spray park – Walsh Spraypark.

Due to a shortage of lifeguards, Garfield Park Pool and Morton Park Pool & Spraypark will be closed this summer.

Middleburg Heights

The city's pool has a splash area, a lily pad walk and tumble buckets. It is open June - early September.

North Canton

Due to repairs being done on Dogwood Swimming Pool, the opening date of Memorial Day weekend was postponed. It is unclear when the pool will open this year. 

Oberlin

The Lorain County Metro Parks runs Splash Zone, an aquatic and fitness center.

Parma

The city has two pools, the Nike Pool and Walter's Grove Pool, plus the Parma Splash Pad.

The splash pad at Anthony Zielinski Park is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily.

Rocky River

The Outdoor Municipal Pool is open from the last Thursday of the school year through Labor Day. Open to residents and their guests.

Shaker Heights

The pool at Thornton Park is open through Labor Day. It has slides, lanes and a splash zone.

South Euclid

Bexley Park Pool and Quarry Splash Park are open daily from June 5 through September 4.

Twinsburg

Twinsburg Water Park is open Monday-Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Westlake

Westlake Aquatic Center and Peterson Pool is open to members, Westlake residents and those who work in Westlake.

Wooster

Knights Field Sprayground is open daily through August 12.

Christmas Run Pool opened in May

Freelander Pool is open through August 5 and closed on Sundays.

Closed for summer 2023:

• Dragga Pool in Mayfield Heights
• Maplewood Pool in Stow

House Bill 68, the "Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act,” passed with a vote of 64 to 28 out of the Ohio House and House Bill 8, the "Parents’ Bill of Rights,” passed with a vote of 65 to 29. The bills passed during a marathon session at the House on Wednesday, when lawmakers debated and voted on 10 pieces of legislation.

“Pride Month is a time of respecting liberty and civil rights,” said Rep. Michael Skindell (D-Lakewood) during the session on Wednesday. “June 2023 in Ohio will be remembered how the Ohio House of Representatives demonstrated outright hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community.” 

Now, each bill will be up for consideration in the Senate. Here's how they could impact Ohio's LGBTQ+ community.

Transgender athlete and healthcare ban 

HB 68 would ban healthcare professionals from providing treatment known as gender-affirming care to trans children in the state, and requires mental health professionals to screen patients for abuse and comorbidities before diagnosing gender dysphoria.

“What we’re just simply saying is, let kids grow up,” said Rep. Gary Click (R-Vickery), who reintroduced the bill in February after the legislation failed to pass Ohio’s General Assembly last year. “Children are incapable of providing the informed consent necessary to make those very risky and life-changing decisions.”

The Ohio Children’s Hospital Association previously called the bill a “misguided effort” that could exacerbate harm to LGBTQ+ youth. Nationwide Children’s Hospital, the American Academy of Pediatrics and other major medical providers have said gender-affirming care is an evidence-based practice with a proven track record of improving health outcomes for trans youth.

“HB 68 overrides individual choice and parental decision making,” said Skindell on Wednesday. “This governmental interference denies transgender youth the liberty of having a higher standard of medical and mental healthcare.” 

Representatives amended the legislation to include House Bill 6, named the “Save Women’s Sports Act.” The bill would bar trans girls from taking part in female athletics and override the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s trans student-athlete policy adopted during the 2015-16 school year.

Nineteen trans girls -- 10 in middle school and nine in high school -- have participated in girls’ sports since the OHSAA’s policy was implemented eight years ago, including the six trans high school students taking part during the 2022-23 school year.

The OHSAA, which said about 400,000 athletes in grades 7-12 participate in its sanctioned sports each school year, asserts its policy is effective in protecting the integrity of girls’ sports while also providing participation opportunities for trans students.

“We will continue to educate people on the OHSAA’s transgender policy, which has been successfully implemented for the last eight years and has not resulted in any loss of female participation, championships or scholarship opportunities in Ohio,” the OHSAA said.

Rep. Jena Powell (R-Arcanum) and 30 Republican co-sponsors reintroduced the bill in February after the legislation also failed to pass Ohio’s General Assembly last year. Powell said 21 other states have passed a similar bill and argues the legislation will facilitate fair competition.

“All that girls are asking for is a fair shot, and to be given the chance to play and win by the rules in the sports that they love,” Powell said. “That opportunity is being ripped from them by biological males.”

The legislation allows an athlete to sue for relief or damages if they are “deprived” of an athletic opportunity by a trans girl, and prohibits a government or athletic association from taking action against schools that enforce the ban.

Rep. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) said the legislation furthers misinformation regarding gender-affirming care and will ostracize trans youth. Somani also noted a similar Arkansas law banning trans healthcare was ruled unconstitutional by a federal judge. 

“Trans women who are on estrogen, their testosterone levels drop within six months,” said Somani. “It is not an absolute that trans women will always beat cisgender women. That’s a misconception.” 

Parents’ Bill of Rights 

HB 8 would require teachers to notify parents before teaching "sexuality content" and of any change in a student’s mental, emotional or physical health. Rep. D.J. Swearingen (R-Huron) and Rep. Sara Carruthers (R-Hamilton) reintroduced the bill earlier this year after that legislation also failed to pass Ohio’s General Assembly last year.

"The Parents' Bill of Rights is about informing parents that, yes, you get to know more about your child's learning, and we are not keeping you out," said Carruthers before the bill passed on Wednesday. "Many parents right now feel unwelcomed and disenfranchised and that is what the bill is targeting."

Lawmakers altered the legislation to swap the term "sexually explicit content" in the bill to "sexuality content," defined as "any oral or written instruction, presentation, image or description of sexual concepts or gender ideology." The bill also requires schools to inform parents of a student's request "to identify as a gender that does not align with the student’s biological sex."

"HB 8 is a hateful attack on Ohio's teachers and our children, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community," said Rep. Jessica Miranda (D-Forest Park). "My colleagues have introduced a piece of legislation that they believe will stop teachers from saying gay in classrooms and force educators to out their students." 

The legislation would provide parents the opportunity to request excusal for their child from lessons, and parents whose concerns aren’t resolved after 30 days would be granted a hearing with the district’s board of education. HB 8’s proponents argue the bill's intention is not to prohibit instruction, but rather to provide parents the opportunity to review the material to determine whether their child should be provided alternative coursework.

"There's nothing in this bill that prohibits the teaching of a subject," said Rep. Adam Bird (R-Cincinnati). "There's nothing in here that doesn't say that you can't teach a certain issue.

Still, Rep. Elliot Forhan (D-South Euclid) spoke on Wednesday about his two moms and if he would have been able to discuss them in school had this bill been a law when he was a student. Forhan's parents married in 2015 after the U.S. Supreme Court decided in Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex marriage is legal, he said.

"I would ask you, if House Bill 8 had been in effect when I was in school, with my teachers, would I have been able to talk about my family?" said Forhan. "When [my children] are in school, will they be able to talk about their grandparents?" 

According to Space.com, two stars of Gemini, Pollux and Castor, will shine with the moon, Mars and Venus as summer begins.

“Even with this hazy condition, there's a good chance we will see part of this alignment,” local Astronomer Jay Reynolds said.

According to Space.com, to see the alignment, face west and look about halfway up in the sky to find the crescent moon about an hour before the sun sets. 

You will best be able to see the alignment with binoculars but will be able to find it with just your eyes alone.

“What's helpful is how bright Venus and the moon are, and they will lead the way toward Mars,” Reynolds said.

According to Reynolds, there is also an early morning alignment that requires getting out to a clear Horizon at around 5:30 a.m. Thursday morning. He said Northeast Ohio will be able to see Jupiter, Neptune, Uranus, Mercury and Saturn.

According to Reynolds, you will need good-quality telescopes to see Uranus and Neptune.

According to the GCFC, Ralphie is coming home along with the biggest cast reunion ever!

This year the Greater Cleveland Film Commission will be hosting "Behind the Camera: A Christmas Story Official 40th Anniversary!”

The GCFC held a press announcement Wednesday with two special guests, Scott Schwartz, who played Flick, and Zack Ward, who played Scut Farkus in the movie.

GCFC’s Behind the Camera event will be held at Cleveland Public Auditorium this year from November 10 through November 12.

Click here to get tickets.

“No one was arrested for his murder and I was never going to let it go,”  Mahoney said.

According to police, Szakacs suffered a dozen broken ribs, a lacerated spleen and bruises all over his body.

The case was extremely heart-wrenching for Mahoney, who was still pushing for answers in her mother’s unsolved murder. Mahoney was just 6 years old when her mother Carla Lynn Szakacs was shot and killed on June 21, 1975.

“With my mom's case being 48 years old, I just expected to live the rest of my life not knowing who killed my brother,” Mahoney told the Fox 8 I-Team.

Christine and her aunt, Sandy Ferko, would go to the area where her brother was beaten on West 47^th Street in Cleveland and the area where her mother was killed on East 119^th Street and Buckeye Road every few months and hang posters, in the hope for answers.

“We wanted someone to have a heart and come out and at least give some information,” Ferko said.

This year, the two reached out to state agents, sending an email, asking for help with the unsolved cases. That email was forwarded to Cleveland Homicide Detective Aaron Reese.

“I took a look at the case and there were some things that really stood out to me, some things we could take immediate action on and we did,” Reese said. “I reviewed the case file along with Sgt. Joe Rini and we made a game plan. We started interviews and following up on the investigation.”

In just a few days, an arrest was made.

“The detective had a heart, he really cared and it showed,” Ferko said.

Michelle Mallet was indicted on charges of murder and felonious assault. She is scheduled to be arraigned on the charges later this week. Mallet was in a relationship with John Szakacs at that time he was beaten.

“I was shocked absolutely shocked, “ Mahoney said. “Finally, justice. I hope this gives others hope.  I am not giving up hope that my mother’s case will be solved. And I want to tell others who may be going through the same thing, don’t  ever give up hope.”

After their first live sold-out tour this spring, the comedy icons, writers, producers, actresses and Saturday Night Live alumni will first stop in Cleveland followed by Denver, Austin, Las Vegas, Philadelphia and Portland.

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler's Restless Leg Tour will stop in Cleveland on September 21 at Playhouse Square.

Presale tickets are available beginning on Wednesday, June 21 at 10 a.m., including an artist presale with code RESTLESS. All other tickets go on sale Friday, June 23 at 10 a.m.

Limited VIP merchandise bundled tickets will be available at each show. 

For more information, fans can head to tinaamytour.com and follow @tinaamytour on Instagram.

(WJW) - If you spot a wild turkey or ruffed grouse this summer, the Ohio Division of Wildlife is asking you to report the sighting.

Wildlife officials use public reports of the birds to help estimate population sizes, predict population changes, and guide management decisions, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

The surveys take place each year in July and August when female birds and their young are most active.

New research this year on wild turkeys includes the use of GPS monitors that will track the movement, survival, and nesting activities of 49 hens in eastern Ohio. The project is a partnership between the Division of Wildlife and the Ohio State University. It's also part of a multi-state collaboration that involves Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, according to the ODNR.

In the early 1900s, turkeys disappeared from Ohio. State officials call their return a "conservation success story." Just in the last couple of years, the state has reported above-average nest productivity for the birds which resulted in bountiful hunting opportunities.

"The Division of Wildlife restored turkeys in the 1950s by releasing birds from other states. Today, turkeys can be found across Ohio. Turkeys prefer a mix of wooded and open habitats and are often seen in the morning in fields near forests," said the ODNR in a press release.

The state has been surveying the number of wild turkeys since 1962.

The state didn't begin surveying the number of ruffed grouse until more recently, in 1999.

According to the ODNR, habitat loss has led to a decline in the grouse population since the 1980s. In addition, their -susceptibility to West Nile Virus has likely caused even further population declines since the early 2000s, according to officials.

If you spot one of these birds, here is what you should note:

• Wild turkey: Report the number of gobblers, hens, and young turkeys (poults.)
• Ruffed grouse: Note the number of adults and young spotted.
• The county where the bird(s) were seen, and include as many other details as possible.

Observations can be reported, here, or on the HuntFish OH mobile app.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WJW) - Ohio residents will have the chance to fish for free on June 17-18, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife.

This annual event is an opportunity for beginners and experienced anglers to fish at any of Ohio's public waters, including Lake Erie and the Ohio River, without the need for a license.

Anglers under 16 can fish for free year-round.

The event aims to expand access to and participation in this popular summer activity.

“Fishing is a pastime that’s meant to be shared with friends and family,” Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said. “We encourage everyone to come out and experience the abundant fishing opportunities Ohio has to offer.”

All other fishing regulations, size requirements, and bag limits still apply.

Ohio's lakes, reservoirs, and streams offer exceptional fishing opportunities, and the Division of Wildlife works to improve spawning habitat, construct fish attractors and structures, and implement fishing regulations.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WJW) -- New bipartisan legislation introduced by two state lawmakers from Northeast Ohio would legalize adult recreational use of cannabis in the state.

And at the ballot box this November, Ohio voters may be able to decide whether to regulate marijuana like alcohol.

'We are falling behind'

Adult-use cannabis has been legalized in 23 states, the District of Columbia and Guam, and 38 states have approved cannabis for medical use, including Ohio.

"The time has come" to legalize it for recreation in Ohio, said state Rep. Casey Weinstein of Hudson, D-34th, who's leading the statehouse effort for adult cannabis use along with a Lake County Republican.

"I think when you look at the state of the nation on this policy, we've reached a tipping point — or maybe even past a tipping point," he told FOX 8 News. "The majority of Americans are on the cusp of living in decriminalized or legalized states. We have a robust medical marijuana program in Ohio that's been going for several years and growing. This gives us an opportunity to look around the nation at states that have moved ahead and take best practices, avoid pitfalls — as we've done in this legislation."

What's in the bill?

Ohio House Bill 168, called the Ohio Adult Use Act, introduced May 8 by state Reps. Weinstein and Jamie Callender of Concord, R-57th, would allow Ohioans who are at least 21 years old to cultivate, purchase and possess cannabis.

If it becomes law, Ohioans would be able to have up to 50 grams of marijuana — a little more than 1 1/2 ounces — and no more than 8 grams of marijuana concentrate. They would also be allowed to keep up to six cannabis plants at home, no more than three of which can be mature, flowering plants.

It also would levy a 10% sales tax on cannabis products, with revenues funding K-12 education; communities that are home to dispensaries; efforts to combat chemical dependence and illegal drug trafficking; and Ohio's general fund.

Ohio's bill would also allow for expungement of past convictions for non-violent, low-level marijuana cultivation and possession offenses, easing the strain on law enforcement and the judicial system, said Weinstein. Only convictions for possessing up to 5 ounces of marijuana; or 15 grams of solid extract, or hashish; or up to 12 plants would qualify for expungement.

President Joe Biden in October pardoned all federal convictions for simple marijuana possession.

State lawmakers have tried before

Ohio's new cannabis bill "splits the difference" between two bills put forth in the last general assembly, neither of which saw a vote. Weinstein's House Bill 382 was introduced in August 2021. Callender's House Bill 498 was introduced in December.

Sponsors testified to both bills on the same day in December before the House Finance Committee, but neither bill went any farther. But now there's a new House speaker, as well as an advancing initiative that wants to ask voters to legalize recreational marijuana at the ballot box this November that could spark some action, Weinstein said.

"[Legalization is] incrementally moving forward every General Assembly," he said. "I'm optimistic that we'll get a robust hearing in the House, then we'll see where it goes. I know there is broad bipartisan support for this across the state and among legislators."

The new bill has since gathered 10 co-sponsors, all Democrats. It's been referred to the House Finance Committee, but hasn't had a hearing yet.

"The reality is many, many Ohioans smoke marijuana or use edibles, and I'd like to regulate it, I'd like to tax it and I'd like to sort of bring it out of the shadows in some ways and create a fully robust market here," Weinstein said. "We are falling behind our neighboring states. It's really time to step up. The time has come."

The bill would expand the state's Medical Marijuana Control Program to also regulate non-medical cannabis, renaming it the Division of Marijuana Control and placing it within the Department of Commerce.

“Through the expansion of Ohio’s successful Medical Marijuana program to all Ohioans, we will not only be building upon best practices from around the country but utilizing the lessons learned here in Ohio,” Callender is quoted in a news release. “With the nation increasingly heading towards the de-scheduling of cannabis products at the federal level, Ohio has an opportunity to get ahead of the curve in developing its cannabis industry.”

What about federal legalization?

Though adult use cannabis could become legal in Ohio, it will still be outlawed at the federal level until it's de-scheduled under the Controlled Substance Act of 1970.

President Biden in October also ordered a federal review of the drug's classification under that law, which currently lumps marijuana in with heroin and LSD at the most restrictive Schedule I classification, for drugs that have no accepted medical use but a high potential for abuse.

There's also bipartisan pro-marijuana legislation currently moving through Congress — for the second Congress in a row, Weinstein said.

Local U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce of Bainbridge Township, R-14th, in 2021 sponsored the first Republican-led effort to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. It was handed off to several committees, but also never saw a vote.

A new bill introduced in May by Joyce and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, D-8th, sets the stage for new federal guidelines ahead of an "inevitable" end to the United States' 86-year prohibition on pot. Joyce is also working with U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, D-14th, on a bill to help states expunge low-level marijuana offenses.

"Ultimately, we need both to come together for, really, clarity of the law from both the state and federal perspectives," Weinstein said.

Joyce could not be reached for comment.

It's not the only path to state legalization

[In the player above, watch previous FOX 8 News coverage on a 2023 ballot initiative to legalize recreational cannabis in Ohio.]

Ohio's bill is separate from a ballot measure to legalize adult use cannabis that could be put to voters this fall.

The Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol is still collecting the more than 124,000 total signatures needed to put the issue on the November ballot.

The initiative was put on hiatus last year, but got back into gear in May, following a missed deadline for state legislators to adopt a proposed bill for recreational cannabis. But the state statute the coalition is looking to enact hasn't changed since then, its spokesperson, Cleveland attorney Thomas Haren, told FOX 8 News.

It would let Ohioans 21 years and older possess up to 2 1/2 ounces of cannabis and up to 15 grams of cannabis extract — more than allowed under HB 168 — and keep up to six cannabis plants at home, or up to 12 if there is more than one user living there.

Though Weinstein said he hopes the ballot initiative passes or otherwise compels the Legislature to make a move on adult use cannabis, he thinks the legislative process is the better avenue to make it legal.

"The ability for citizens to weigh in — both for and against — it lets us do amendments and substitutions and really work more with a scalpel on the legislation," he told FOX 8 News.

But statehouse leadership has long been cool on the issue of legalizing marijuana.

"We welcome every chance to engage on this topic and are grateful for the thoughtful consideration of Rep. Weinstein and Rep. Callender, for introducing their most recent bill," said Haren. "Unfortunately, leadership gave their proposal almost as much time as they've given our proposal — which is to say, basically, no attention at all. That's why we are moving forward to put legalization of marijuana for adults on the ballot this November."

What do Ohioans think of legal weed?

The last time recreational cannabis was on the statewide ballot was in 2015, following an effort led by Responsible Ohio that would have created a monopoly on any budding Ohio market. Voters that year rejected it nearly 2-to-1.

Polling of more than 400 likely Republican voters and 300 likely Democrat voters conducted in Ohio by Emerson College and The Hill during last year's primary season suggests Ohioans would approve legalization — albeit by a narrow margin.

Fifty percent of those polled said they supported it, while another 40% said they were opposed. Two-thirds of the Democratic voters polled supported it, along with half of the Independent voters. A little more than half of the Republican voters polled were against it, however.

Haren said he's seen other polling that puts Ohioans' support for recreational cannabis closer to 60%.

"We have every reason to believe that legalizing, regulating and taxing marijuana for adults is popular in Ohio," he told FOX 8 News. "We're confident that when we get on the ballot and Ohioans actually have a chance to have their voices heard at the polls that we're going to be successful."

The coalition's second batch of signatures must be submitted to the Secretary of State's office by July 5. Then those signatures will be sent to counties for verification, a spokesperson said. Barring any failures, voters will get to decide whether to legalize in the November general election.

Located at 2020 E. Choctaw Drive, the property sits on 1.88 acres on the shore of Choctaw Lake in Madison County. The luxury home is one of more than 880 homes in the private lake community, situated less than 30 minutes from Columbus and Springfield.

Constructed in 2007, the 8,356 square-foot home features seven bedrooms, five full bathrooms, three half bathrooms, a three-car garage and a front entry way opening to a two-story "lake room." A wall of windows frame double sliding doors, providing natural light with a wood-burning fireplace and an imported Italian chandelier.

An expansive deck is accessible from the lake room and the chef's kitchen, adorned with handmade terracotta tile, custom granite countertops, glass backsplash and a double bowl copper farm sink. Imported European chandeliers completes the space with Miele double ovens and a range with gas cooktop.

Continuing through the main floor, solid wood entry doors welcomes guests into the owner's suite with an expansive closet, a walk-in marble shower, etched stained glass windows, an oversized jacuzzi tub and glass doors providing access to the home's deck.

A "Buckeye Room" honoring Ohio State decorates the lower level with a custom bar, built-in wood cabinetry and a custom etched block "O" mirror. Out the double sliding doors, the saltwater pool with spillover spa centers the backyard featuring a built-in hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, three pergolas and a stone fireplace.

Across the manicured lawn, the boat house and lake docks feature an electric boat lift with tie-ups. Learn more about the property and view additional photos here.

After surveying the area Friday, a NWS team said the tornado touched down in the town of Nankin in rural Ashland County just before 9 p.m. Thursday.

The tornado was an EF-0 capable of causing winds of up to 85 mph the NWS said.

The tornado was 300 yards wide and traveled 1.2 miles for two minutes in rural Ashland County according to the NWS.

A home's roof was damaged, a barn sustained heavy damage, trees were uprooted, but no one was injured the NWS added.

Nankin is located four miles north of Ashland.

The NWS also confirmed an EF 2 tornado touched down in Lucas County near Point Place, five miles north of downtown Toledo.

According to NWS, peak winds were estimated at 130 miles per hour. The path length was about two miles, and the path was about 300 yards wide.

Fox 8 meteorologist Scott Sabol said the highest wind gust not associated with a tornado of around 65 mph was recorded in the Cleveland area.

Police responded to the home in Monroe Township shortly before 4:30 p.m., WKRC-TV reported.

Officers found three boys, ages 3, 4 and 7, outside the home with gunshot wounds and performed life-saving measures but the children died at the scene, the station reported.

Police said a 34-year-old woman, who was not immediately identified, was outside the home suffering a gunshot to the hand and was transported to hospital, WKRC reported.

Chad Doerman, 32, was taken into custody at the scene and was believed to be the father of the children. He was charged with three counts of aggravated murder, WKRC reported.

A pair of 911 calls reported children had been shot and a girl was running down the street saying her father was killing people, the station reported.

The Clermont County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to a message from The Associated Press seeking confirmation of the news report and additional details of the shooting.

Monroe Township is located about 75 miles (120 km) west of Columbus, Ohio.

The infant appeared to be a full-term newborn from zero to one month of age, according to a news release from police.

Officers responded to the 100 block of Bluestem Lane and located the infant in the rear collection point of the garbage truck. Medic personnel from the Pleasant Valley Joint Fire District pronounced the infant dead at 2:33 p.m.

The body of the deceased infant was removed from the scene and is being taken for an autopsy to be performed by the Montgomery County Medical Examiner's Office.

Plain City police will be leading the \investigation. Additional details will be provided Friday afternoon including the preliminary cause of death and gender of the infant, police said.

Anyone with information that could be related to this investigation is asked to contact the Plan City Division of Police at 614-873-2921.

The annual Out of Reach Ohio report, released Wednesday by the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO), found that full-time workers need to make at least $19.09 an hour to afford rent at a modest, two-bedroom apartment. That number, up by $2 from last year, has prompted affordable housing advocates to call on the Ohio Legislature for help.

“The McDonald’s may be paying a little bit more now; the Target may be paying a little bit more now … but those increases are not keeping pace with the rising rent costs that we see month over month,” COHHIO executive Amy Riegel said at a news conference Wednesday.

Of the 10 occupations with the most workers in Ohio, only three – tractor-trailer truck driver, registered nurse and general operations manager – earn a median hourly wage that surpasses the average $19.09 needed to rent a two-bedroom apartment, the report found, citing data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The housing wage, an estimate of what full-time workers need to afford a two-bedroom without spending more than 30% of their income, was highest in Union County at $22.79 an hour, according to the report.

Urban areas like Columbus, Cincinnati and Akron have similarly high rates. In Cleveland, the housing wage was slightly higher than the state average, reported at $19.19 an hour. In Akron, it was $19.75.

But it’s not isolated to large communities, Riegel said. In Athens County, a resident earning $9.38 an hour – the average renter wage in the area – would have to work two full-time jobs to afford the going-rate of a two-bedroom rental: $926 a month, the report found.

“Ohio is at a crossroad,” she said.

The housing market is especially tight in areas booming with development, like Fayette County where construction on Honda and LG Energy’s $4.4 billion electric vehicle battery plant – poised to bring nearly 2,200 jobs to the region – is underway.

Steve Creed, who directs the Community Action Agency’s housing program in Fayette County, said he gets calls every day from residents looking for a rental. Local landlords are selling their properties to developers for huge profits, he said, as they’re left with little incentive to opt into affordable housing programs.

“I spoke to a lady the other day because her landlord decided he was going to sell the house,” Creed said. “The best she could find was a 2-bedroom apartment for $1,200 a month here locally, so it’s been tough for these folks.”

The rising gap between rental prices and wages leaves more Ohioans without a roof over their head, Riegel said. In Columbus, specifically, the Community Shelter Board said it identified more than 2,300 people experiencing homelessness during its January point-in-time count – a 22% rise from last year.

That’s why advocates, including 277 grassroots groups across the state, signed a COHHIO-authored letter addressed to elected officials to beg them – particularly members of the Ohio Senate – to allocate more dollars toward securing safe, affordable homes.

Unlike the budget proposals offered by Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio House, Riegel said the Senate’s version marked an “all-out assault” on affordable and rental housing across the state. It stripped funding for pregnant women in need of rental assistance, tenants trying to build credit, and tax credits for affordable housing.

The Senate’s budget also eliminated the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, a state agency that’s key to fighting the shortage of affordable housing units, said Samantha Shuler, CEO of the Columbus-based Community Housing Network.

Instead, it would shift the agency’s responsibilities under a newly-created Office of Housing Transformation – a department whose system is not yet clear, Shuler said.

“At the time all the data says affordable housing, we’re going backwards on this bill,” she said.

On Wednesday, the Senate Finance Committee voted to restore some affordable housing provisions in its latest budget version, including a tax credit program for low-income housing and dollars toward constructing more units. DeWine must sign a finalized budget by June 30.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Republican-dominated Ohio Senate cleared its version of the state's operating budget Thursday along party lines with a nearly $86 billion price tag, tackling funding for universal school vouchers, income tax cuts and public assistance programs, among hundreds of other provisions.

The 7,000-page proposal is also stuffed with contentious policy changes, including a K-12 education overhaul, bans on flavored vape sales and certain social media apps, and prohibitions on faculty strikes and diversity mandates at public colleges and universities.

Changes must still be ironed out with the GOP-led House, where a contingent of the Republican supermajority wants to accept the Senate's version despite vast changes from their April budget proposal.

House Speaker Jason Stephens, a rural southern Ohio Republican, told reporters the chamber will continue negotiations, though fellow GOP Rep. Phil Plummer, of Dayton, said those unhappy with Stephens' leadership are gathering votes to cut negotiations short.

Continuous headbutting between House factions raises questions about whether the lower chamber can come together — and perhaps hints why proposed policy changes made it into the budget before being subject to hearings.

The fiscal elements have also been the target of critics. Spending cuts to childcare, public education, food banks and affordable housing are prompting Democrats and advocates in those fields to deem the budget “heartless."

Here's a glance at how the state Senate proposes spending Ohio's billions and what policies they want to implement:

Education

• About $2 billion would be spent phasing in a universal voucher program over the next two years, providing income-based scholarships of varying amounts for any Ohio child to attend private school.

• The Senate eliminated a House provision setting a base salary of $40,000 for teachers and removed a measure to expand funding for free school meals for public school students.

• One provision would ban nearly all diversity and inclusion training requirements at public colleges and universities, prohibit faculty strikes and bar public universities from taking stances on “controversial” topics, such as abortion and climate policies.

• It would also shift K-12 education oversight from the Ohio State Board of Education to an official appointed by the governor — drastically changing who makes decisions about academic standards, curriculum and district ratings.

• The budget also would continue implementing the fairer, more reliable school funding formula from the last two-year budget, with updated costs for teacher salaries, transportation and technology factored in.

Taxes

• Under the Senate's plan, Ohioans could see $1.5 billion in income tax deductions over the next two years — $500 million more than the House’s version, in part by consolidating the current four tax brackets down to two.

• A business tax cut would eliminate the state's Commercial Activities Tax for 90% of companies who currently pay it.

• The Senate restored GOP Gov. Mike DeWine's provisions on housing taxes nixed by the House, including creating a state Low Income Housing Tax Credit program, income tax deductions for homeownership savings accounts and a tax credit for the construction of single-family affordable housing.

• Sales tax on certain baby products would be eliminated.

• A $2,500 child tax deduction pushed by DeWine but nixed by the House remains out of the budget.

Public assistance programs

• Food banks saw major cuts to their state funding in the Senate's budget versus the House's, even as demand for their services have increased across the state, according to the Ohio Association of Food Banks.

• In-home Medicaid care providers would see an hourly wage increase to $17 in FY24 and $18 in FY25, up from the current $13, in an effort to address workforce shortages.

• $16 million would be allotted for a program that helps pregnant women in unstable housing pay rent.

• The Senate proposed raising the income eligibility for government-funded child care to 145% of the federal poverty level versus the House’s proposed 160%. The current threshold is only 142%, and critics say the small hike would not help with Ohio’s scarcity of affordable childcare.

• In an attempt to counter fraud, those seeking food stamps could face more requirements including providing a phone number and photo ID.

Other items

• The budget would lower the minimum age of a police officer from 21 to 18.

• It would implement a ban on selling favored tobacco products.

• The Senate would remove $1 billion in earmarks for one-time spending, instead using $1 billion in leftover federal revenue and taxpayer money to create a One Time Community Investment Fund for special projects.

• $16 million would be appropriated for a hotly contested Republican-backed August special election that could impact abortion rights.

• It would also include a measure to require parental consent on social media platforms for Ohio children under 16. State employees and contractors would also be banned from using Chinese-based social media platforms such as TikTok on state devices.