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Columbus, Ohio – When Hurricane Ike blew through Ohio on September 14, 2008 many homes and businesses were damaged and thousands were left without power for days. Fortunately, most libraries were spared and as a result quickly became hubs for community members seeking light, reading materials, internet access, and power for charging cell phones & laptops. Many libraries remained open for extra hours to better serve the increase in visitors.
"I always say that the best libraries can be found at the heart of any community. During crisis and tragedies, people turn to their libraries," said State Librarian Jo Budler. "We saw this happen after 9/11 – people naturally wanted to be with other people AND where they could get reliable information. When Hurricane Ike struck Ohio, again we saw people flocking to their libraries, literally a haven in the storm! Marsha McDevitt-Stredney, Director of Marketing and Communications, sent out a question on OPLIN listserv to find out how Ohioans used their libraries when so many homes were without electricity and the responses she received are gathered here."
Elaine Willis, Public Relations Associate, Westlake Porter Public Library responded, "One family (a mother and daughter, at least) actually said they had hung out here for several nights because they had no power at home, and this way the 6th grade daughter had more time for homework."
"We also had hundreds of customers checking out books, magazines, as well as browsing newspapers and so forth in the building because much of Delaware County was without power longer than the library was without power," said Mary Jane Santos, Director Delaware County District Library. "Since schools were canceled Monday and Tuesday, parents, teens, school-aged children and preschoolers also made good use of the library facility and material."
To download a PDF compilation of their responses click here to download the file. PDF
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Columbus, Ohio – The Supreme Court of Ohio will accept public comment until Oct. 29 on proposed rules to expand who legal interns can represent.
Amendments to Rule II of the Rules for the Government of the Bar of Ohio would permit legal interns to represent individuals in felony matters and juveniles, if the crime would be a felony if committed by an adult, as long as accompanied by a supervising attorney to all court proceedings.
The amendments also call for supervising attorneys to certify that they will perform all duties as required and further clarify the duration and expiration of a legal intern certificate.
For complete language of the proposed rule amendments, please visit: rules.supremecourtofohio.gov/rules. Comments on the proposed amendments should be submitted in writing to: Lee Ann Ward, Director of Bar Admissions, Supreme Court of Ohio, 65 S. Front St., 6th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, or wardl@sconet.state.oh.us.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Department of Commerce, Division of Securities is reminding Ohioans to beware of investment ideas that are promising guaranteed high returns on your money.
"Con artists often use these times of economic uncertainty to promote bogus investments with too many promises," said the Director of Commerce, Kimberly Zurz. "Cold calling is used quite often when pitching investment scams; these are often get-rich-quick opportunities associated with promises of guaranteed returns with no risk."
Most investment fraud is associated with the guarantee of high returns on your investments with little to no risk of losing your principle. These types of investment pitches are very common in times when there is negative economic news and stock market volatility.
"Investors should be on guard against the high pressure sales tactics urging immediate decisions. Frequently, non-traditional investment opportunities such as foreign currency, oil, gas, and gold are used as the vehicle for fraudulent schemes, although this is not to suggest that all such investments are fraudulent," Director Zurz says.
Legitimate financial professionals generally do not recommend that investment portfolios be drastically changed based upon sudden economic news. "Investors should be wary of any recommendations to an investor's long term investment goals. If your portfolio is well diversified, don't allow your money to be spent on alternative investment products that you don't understand or that may expose you to higher risks of losses," said the Acting Commissioner of Securities Brian Misencik.
The Division encourages all investors to know their investments goals, know if their financial professional is licensed, and know and understand the investment opportunity.
Before making any investment decisions, investors are urged to call the Division's Investor Protection Hotline at 1-800-788-1194 to ask:
Investors are encouraged to also request written information about any investment, carefully review it, and ask other professionals to review this information as well. Be cautious if a salesperson tries to force you to make an immediate decision. It is always a good idea to seek additional counsel regarding investments from a Certified Public Accountant and Attorney before making any big investment decisions.
To assist investors, the Division of Securities has a variety of investor education publications at www.com.ohio.gov/secu/ . They also may be obtained by calling the Investor Protection Hotline.
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Columbus, Ohio – Hunters are preparing for Ohio's upcoming fall wild turkey season, which runs Saturday, October 11 through Sunday, November 30, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife
"Brood production was enhanced in parts of southern Ohio by this summer's emergence of 17-year cicadas," said Mike Reynolds, the division's wild turkey biologist. "Hunters should be able to locate flocks of turkeys feeding on abundant white oak acorns and beech nuts in mature forests." Reynolds estimates Ohio's statewide wild turkey flock now numbers more than 200,000 birds.
Fall wild turkey hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. The bag limit is one turkey of either sex per hunter per season. A fall turkey permit is required in addition to a current Ohio hunting license. All harvested turkeys must be taken to an official turkey check station by 8 p.m. the day of harvest.
Dogs may be used to assist in taking wild turkeys during the fall hunting season, but not during the spring season.
Hunters should be aware that the fall turkey season will partially overlap with the Early Muzzleloader Season deer hunt (October 20-25) on three state-owned areas: Wildcat Hollow and Salt Fork state wildlife areas, and Shawnee State Forest. Turkey hunting will not be allowed on these areas during those dates.
More than 17,000 hunters pursued wild turkeys in the state last fall, harvesting 1,216 birds. The first fall wild turkey hunting season in Ohio was in 1996.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio EPA has opened its new eBusiness Center, a secure Web portal for online business services. This site is the entry point for the regulated community and consultants to electronically complete and file reports and environmental permit applications and to pay fees.
The eBusiness Center currently offers capabilities for air permitting and wastewater discharge monitoring reports. Over the next several months, Ohio EPA will add services related to drinking water, solid waste and hazardous waste. All services will be accessed through Ohio EPA's eBusiness Center at ebiz.epa.ohio.gov.
"Regulatory agencies like Ohio EPA recognize that today's competitive environment makes it critical to provide ways to speed business transactions," said Ohio EPA Director Chris Korleski. "Our new eBusiness Center will make it faster and cheaper to do business with Ohio EPA, while lowering our costs as well."
When fully operational, the Center will provide access to various reporting functions, enabling authorized users to apply for new permits and permit modifications and streamline the payment process. This integrated system will also improve the validity and coordination of Ohio EPA's data.
Using the secure site, facility representatives can: enter and submit data at any time; save partially completed applications and reports for later submittal; verify successful submissions or track the status of applications without contacting a live person; reduce paperwork; and save postage and copying costs. They will also no longer need to download and install special data reporting and application software.
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Columbus, Ohio – AIG's insurance companies are financially sound, with substantially more in assets than they need to pay all valid present and projected claims, Mary Jo Hudson, Director of the Ohio Department of Insurance, today reassured Ohio policyholders.
"Don't worry and don't make any rash decisions if you have a policy issued by an AIG insurance company," Director Hudson said. "All your covered claims will be paid and all your annuity checks will come. Making sure insurance companies are solvent and able to pay every valid claim is my number one job, and the AIG insurance companies are strong and solvent."
"If you have a life insurance or annuity policy and someone tells you to replace it because of the troubles at AIG's parent company, call the Ohio Department of Insurance toll-free hotline at 1-800-686-1526," Director Hudson said. "Replacing or liquidating a life insurance policy or an annuity can have heavy hidden costs and tax consequences. That is why our Insurance Law requires that you get all the information you need to make an educated decision in your best interests. There may be a cancellation penalty if you cancel your automobile or homeowners policy. If someone tells you to replace any policy because an AIG insurance company is in trouble and may not be able to pay your claim, that is not only untrue, it is against the law. Call us. Some regulators have received reports that this is happening. We will not allow it to happen in Ohio. We will protect consumers from improper sales practices."
Director Hudson explained that the trouble with AIG is largely with AIG's non-insurance parent company, which is not regulated by the states and therefore not held to the same investment, accounting and capital adequacy standards as its state-regulated insurance subsidiaries. The insurance subsidiaries are solvent and able to pay their obligations.
AIG Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Question: Is AIG going bankrupt?
Answer: AIG is an international financial holding company with numerous businesses. Your insurance and annuity policies are written by AIG's insurance companies. Those companies are financially strong and their assets are protected by state regulators.
Question: Are the insurance and annuity policies I purchased from AIG safe or am I going to lose my money?
Answer: Your policies are safe. AIG's insurance companies are financially strong and fully able to honor all policyholders' claims. The Ohio Department of Insurance will continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure policyholders are protected and that there will continue to be sufficient assets to pay claims.
Question: Should I cash in my insurance and annuity policies and purchase insurance from another insurer?
Answer: As stated above, the AIG insurance companies are financially strong so your policies are not in jeopardy. Whether you should cash in your insurance policy or switch insurance to another insurer is, as always, a personal decision. Please be aware that some policies may contain surrender charges and/or cancellation penalties. Contact the Ohio Department of Insurance toll-free hotline at 1-800-686-1526 to find out all the information your agent or broker should give you before you make a decision. Talk to your financial adviser before making any decisions. If you have any insurance policy with an AIG company and someone tells you to replace it because of the troubles at AIG's parent company or supposed trouble at the insurance company, call the Ohio Department of Insurance toll-free hotline at 1-800-686-1526.
Question: Should I pay the insurance premium bill that I just received from AIG?
Answer: Yes, in order for your coverage with AIG to continue, you will need to pay the insurance premiums. Failure to pay your premiums can result in the termination of your insurance policies by the insurance company.
Question: Would my insurance and annuity policies have been protected had AIG been declared insolvent and ordered to be liquidated by a court?
Answer: There are guaranty funds in place in all states which act as a safety net in the event an insurer becomes insolvent. You may obtain information about the Ohio Insurance Guaranty Association (OIGA) for property casualty business by visiting www.ohioga.org or the Ohio Life & Health Insurance Guaranty Association (OLHIGA) for life, health and annuities at www.olhiga.com.
Question: I heard the government may take over AIG. What are state regulators doing to make sure AIG insurance companies will continue to be able to pay claims?
Answer: The agreement between AIG and the Federal Reserve protects the assets of the insurance companies so they will be available to pay claims. Any significant transaction affecting an AIG insurance company will need approval from state regulators.
Question: What can I do if I am having difficulty getting through to AIG on the telephone?
Answer: You may obtain information about filing a complaint with the Ohio Department of Insurance by contacting 1-800-686-1526.
Ohio consumers with questions about their AIG insurance policies can call the Department's consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526. Free information can also be obtained at www.ohioinsurance.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – There's no better way to experience the magic of Ohio's Fall Color season than with a woodland trek through a state park, forest or nature preserve.
ODNR foresters are predicting a color-drenched autumn across most of the state, as cool nights and sunny days turn woodlands vibrant shades of red, orange, gold and yellow.
Hiking provides some of the best and most intimate ways to view this annual natural phenomenon. Ohio's state parks, forests and natures preserves offer hundreds of miles of trails through some of the state's most picturesque terrain. ODNR has compiled a list of the best locations to visit this autumn and view the change of the seasons.
Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park (Portage County) - Three miles of hiking trails featuring unusual rock formations with names like Indian Pass and Old Maid's Kitchen. Best for experienced hikers and adults.
Beaver Creek State Park (Columbiana County) - Sixteen miles of hiking trails and 23 miles of bridle trails that border on the gorge of Little Beaver Creek, a state wild and scenic river.
Findley State Park (Lorain County) - Ten miles of hiking and mountain biking trails (including part of the Buckeye Trail) that run through portions of a scenic old-growth forest.
Mohican State Park-Mohican Memorial State Forest (Ashland and Richland counties) - Thirty-seven miles of hiking trails, including some multiple-use trails, that slice rolling hills and the Clear Fork River Gorge, designated a National Natural Landmark.
Quail Hollow State Park (Stark County) - Twelve miles of hiking trails, including a one-mile paved path, are a good place for beginning hikers. This is on of the most picturesque urban parks in Ohio.
Fowler Woods State Nature Preserve (Richland County) - Three hiking trails meander through this 148-acre preserve, one of the oldest in the state. Some trees here are 100 to 200 years old.
Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve (Hardin County) - More than 1,000 acres of natural wooded habitat with a one-mile trail that abounds with plant and animal life.
Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve (Licking County) - Six trails of varying lengths cut this 970-acre preserve which lies on the Licking River Gorge.
Barkcamp State Park (Belmont County) - Four miles of hiking trails and 24 miles of bridle trails through one of the most biologically diverse forests in Ohio. Less-frequented trails, great for beginners.
Salt Fork State Park (Guernsey County) - Fourteen miles of hiking trails and 20 miles of bridle trails that circle a 2,952-acre lake.
Burr Oak State Park (Morgan County) - Extensive hiking on back woodland trails and across beautiful rolling hills.
Lake Hope State Park and Zaleski State Forest (Vinton County) - Seventeen miles of hiking trails and four miles of mountain biking trails in the park alone. A 23-mile backpack trail meanders through the forest in one of the most picturesque parts of Ohio. Along the way, hikers can visit Native American sites, the legendary Moonville tunnel and some of the best wild turkey and white-tailed deer habitat in the state.
Great Seal State Park (Ross County) - Five miles of hiking trails and 17 miles of bridle and mountain bike trails that run along the Appalachian escarpment.
Scioto Trail State Park and State Forest (Ross County) - Twelve miles of hiking trails along the Scioto River lie completely within the park; 26 miles of bridle and hiking trails lie within the forest. This very remote area is abundant with wildlife.
Tar Hollow State Park and State Forest (Ross County) - Forty-six miles of hiking trails and 25 miles of bridle trails, as well as 2.5 miles of mountain bike trails pass through deep ravines and dense woodlands of the park and forest. Portions of the Logan and Buckeye trails pass through the forest.
Hocking Hills State Park and State Forest (Hocking County) - Twenty-four miles of hiking trails lie within the park and nine miles of hiking and bridle trails lie within the forest in an area famous for its rock formations, waterfalls, caves and beautiful natural scenery. Portions of the Buckeye Trail pass through the state forest that also has designated repelling and rock-climbing areas.
Shawnee State Park and State Forest (Scioto County) - A 60-mile backpacking trail winds through the 65,000-acre state forest - the largest in Ohio. A hike provides spectacular vistas of the Ohio River Valley. An 8,000-acre portion is the only true back country wilderness area in the state.
East Fork State Park (Clermont County) - Eighty-five miles of hiking trails, 55 miles of bridle trails and 46 miles of backpack trails, as well as five miles of mountain bike trails make this one of the most popular parks in southwest Ohio. Portions of the Buckeye, North Country and National Scenic trails cut through this park, which lies on the east fork of the Little Miami River.
Caesar Creek State Park (Warren County) - Forty-three miles of hiking trails and 31 miles of bridle trails, as well as five miles of mountain bike trails through forests and around a 2,800-acre lake. The park is one of the best fossil-hunting areas in the state.
Hueston Woods State Park (Preble County) - Ten miles of hiking trails, 15 miles of bridle trails and 12 miles of mountain bike trails run through an old-growth maple forest. The park also features a resort lodge.
John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve (Greene County) - Hikers can travel between the villages of Clifton and Yellow Springs along the scenic Little Miami River Gorge and visit historic overlooks along the way.
Kiser Lake State Park (Champaign County) - Five miles of easy trails make this out-of-the-way park a mecca for beginning hikers. Trails lead through rolling woodlands and diverse wetlands.
Indian Lake State Park (Logan County) - Seven miles of hiking trails along a 5,800-acre lake. Three miles of trailway are paved for cyclists and rollerbladers.
For more information on trailways in Ohio's state parks, state forests and state nature preserves, visit ohiodnr.com.
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Columbus, Ohio – The health care industry plays a big role in the economies of Ohio's 79 rural counties, and is directly responsible for nearly 10 percent of employment in rural Ohio, according to a report by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Ohio University Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs.
"Health care protects the health of rural Ohioans and improves the health of the rural economy," said ODH Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. "And its impact becomes more important each year."
More than 285,000 health care professions working in hospitals, doctors' offices, nursing and residential care facilities, home health agencies, dental laboratories, pharmacies and other health-related businesses directly generated $11.6 billion in payroll in 2006, according to "The Economic Impact of the Health Care Sector in Rural Ohio," a 250-page report issued today by ODH and the Voinovich School.
The spinoff effect is even greater. Health care employment supports an additional 118,000 jobs with total wages of $14.9 billion. The report sums up this phenomenon:
"For example, a health care worker in the 79 Rural Ohio Counties purchases clothes for his or her family at the local clothing store, generating income for the store's owner," it reads. "The owner saves some of this money and spends the rest, thereby providing income for another local resident. The third person saves part of this money and spends the rest, which becomes income for a fourth person, and so forth. Hence employment in health settings results in additional employment in the remainder of the local economy."
Including the spinoff effect, health care was responsible for 13.8 percent of jobs and 14.4 percent of income in the 79 counties in 2006, compared with 13.5 percent and 11.5 percent, respectively, in 2002.
In Appalachian counties, health care is responsible for 16.3 percent of employment and 18.4 percent of income. In non-Appalachian, rural counties, health care is responsible for 13.2 percent of employment and 13.7 percent of income, the report states.
"Health care jobs typically pay higher wages than other jobs in rural areas," said Mark Weinberg, director of the Voinovich School. "We must work together to ensure rural health care remains strong in Ohio."
The full report contains individual profiles for the 79 counties, for the 28 Appalachian counties and the 51 non- Appalachian counties in rural Ohio and is available electronically by contacting ODH.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today asked Ohioans to consider a financial donation to area foodbanks, through the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks, to help provide assistance to those still recovering from the effects of last Sunday's windstorm.
"The windstorm left an estimated 2 million customers throughout our state without power and many Ohioans are left facing difficult circumstances as a result," Strickland said. "Without the power needed to keep refrigerators and freezers operating, Ohioans were forced to throw away spoiling food. For too many Ohioans this meant throwing away food without any idea of how they could replenish it. These Ohioans are now turning to our soup kitchens and our food pantries, but some food pantries remain closed due to power outages. Others are open with long lines and inventories dwindling.
"I know Ohioans will respond to this situation as we always do - with kindness, generosity and with a sense of community. That's why I am encouraging Ohioans to offer whatever assistance they can to help our food pantries and soup kitchens," Strickland said.
The Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks provides food and other resources to people in need through 12 Second Harvest Foodbanks, which then distribute food to more than 3,300 member charities, including food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shelters and other hunger relief organizations, in all 88 counties in Ohio.
The Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks suggests that, as demand is up 20 percent in many places and supplies are running low, Ohioans consider a financial contribution at this time. While food drives can help, financial donations allow food banks to cost-effectively purchase high protein, perishable items through bulk purchasing. Donations of food must be inspected and processed before being placed on the shelves of food pantries and that process can not finish in time to meet the needs of families still recovering from the windstorm.
Donations are being sent through the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks (http://www.oashf.org/) for distribution to food pantries across the state. Donations may also be mailed to:
Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks
51 North High St, Suite 671
Columbus, OH 43215
When donating, please write, or otherwise mark, "Emergency Relief" in the designation line.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohioans today are continuing their recovery from this past weekend's major wind storm, caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ike, with electric utility crews from several states progressing (delete) engaged in a round the clock effort to restore power service to millions of Ohioans impacted by the storm.
As of 3 p.m. today, Ohio's electric utility providers had restored service to more than 70 percent of those customers affected by outages since Sunday, with an overall reduction in the number of affected customers from 1.92 million Monday to 551,466 currently. During the past
24 hours, restoration crews have restored service to more than 345,000 customers across the state. Following are the latest service restoration updates from Ohio's electric utility providers:
The State of Ohio Emergency Operations Center is continuing to coordinate the state's response to the major wind storm that swept through Ohio Sunday, caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ike. Seven people lost their lives as a result of the storm, with widespread debris, damage and power outages impacting millions of Ohioans.
Ohioans are again reminded to exercise caution in the use auxiliary power/lighting sources such as generators and candles through the extended power outages across the state. Citizens are also urged to allow utility crews and local officials to safely address utility infrastructure repairs and restoration efforts by following all the safety guidelines related to these types of hazards. For the latest information on the state's coordinated response to the storm, visit www.ema.ohio.gov
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today sent a letter to President George W. Bush requesting federal aid to assist the state's recovery efforts in the aftermath of the major wind storm that swept through Ohio Sunday, caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ike.
Full text of the letter:
September 17, 2008
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Through: Edward Buikema, Regional Director, FEMA Region V, Chicago, Illinois 60605
Dear Mr. President:
Under the provisions of Section 501 (a) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 5121-5206 (Stafford Act), and implemented by 44 CFR § 206.35, I request that you declare an emergency for the entire State of Ohio as a result of category one hurricane force winds over a sustained period of time throughout the entire state.
High winds, which were the remnants of Hurricane Ike, impacted the State of Ohio Sunday, September 14, 2008 with residual continuing effects. Massive power outages and incident-related debris continue to impact all 88 counties within the state. At the peak outage, an estimated 2 million residential and business customers were without power throughout the State and full power restoration is not expected until next week. Seven people have died as a result of the storm, five killed by falling trees and associated debris, one electrocution and one drowning.
In response to the situation, I have taken appropriate action under state law and directed the execution of the State Emergency Plan on September 14, 2008 in accordance with Section 501 (a) of the Stafford Act. Under my authority, a state of emergency was declared for all 88 Counties on September 15, 2008.
Pursuant to 44 CFR § 206.35, I have determined that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the State and affected local governments, and that supplementary federal assistance is necessary to save lives, protect property, public health, and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a disaster. I am specifically requesting a statewide emergency declaration for all 88 counties for Category B, Emergency Protective Measures, that is necessary to save lives, protect public health and safety and prevent damage to public and private property.
A preliminary estimate of the type and amount of emergency assistance needed under the Stafford Act is tabulated in Enclosure A. As we continue to assess impacts of emergency protective measures statewide, we are also assessing widespread debris statewide associated with this wind event. A subsequent request for Category A, Debris Removal, may be submitted based on the outcome of damage assessments.
KEY STATE RESPONSE ACTIVITES
The following State Agencies and organizations responded to the Ohio Emergency Operations Center and the impacted areas following the power outage: the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, Ohio Department of Aging, Ohio Department of Agriculture, American Red Cross, Ohio Community Service Council, Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, State Fire Marshal, Ohio Department of Health, Ohio Department of Insurance, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Ohio Department of Mental Health, Ohio Department of Public Safety, Ohio National Guard, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Ohio Homeland Security, Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Department of Transportation and Ohio Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters. Representatives from these entities are present in the State Emergency Operations Center and are surveying their county counterparts to determine the impacts and possible resources needed.
The following information is furnished on the nature and amount of state and local resources that have been or will be used to alleviate the conditions of this emergency:
Emergency Support Function #1: Transportation
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) crews have worked 24 hours a day since the event began on Sunday afternoon clearing debris from state and local roadways. At the height of this event, there were more than 46 roads maintained by ODOT that were closed or restricted due to wind storm damage. Officials estimate hundreds of locally maintained (county, municipal, township) roads have been impacted by debris. Power outages and physical damage to traffic lights continue to seriously impact the safety of citizens, emergency responders and repair crews. Peak outage of traffic signals under the jurisdiction of ODOT was over 490, more than one-third of signals controlled by ODOT. statewide traffic signal outages were in the tens of thousands. As power is slowly being restored those signals not damaged are becoming functional.
Emergency Support Function #2: Communications
There continues to be widespread usage of Ohio's 800-megahertz statewide communication system, the Multi-Agency Radio Communications System (MARCS), by agencies and local departments that are experiencing power outages. Additionally, 50 MARCS sites are on generator power and 8 have experienced T-1 problems and are non-functional. Loss of electricity statewide has hampered state, local and non-profits' abilities to effectively communicate with the public, requiring alternate communication methods to dispel rumors and communicate emergency public information.
Emergency Support Function #3: Engineering and Public Works
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports numerous public water systems are on backup power or facing operational challenges. Additionally, one system lost both primary and secondary power and has issued a precautionary advisory. Water sampling is on-going to verify the safety of the water for that system.
Based on the loss of power to critical systems, multiple jurisdictions are providing bottled water to their citizens and ice to support critical needs.
Systems in southwest and central Ohio are dealing with issues of extended term operations on secondary power and/or obtaining water supplied from other systems. They are coordinating with the Dayton and Columbus offices which are monitoring the on-going challenges. EPA received a report that the public water supply in Twin City ( Tuscarawas County) is without power and has no backup supply. A generator has been identified with transportation underway and delivery anticipated in several days. Once delivered, there will be additional significant costs incurred for the fuel that will need to be trucked in and provided to support the use of the generator. EPA staff will continue to conduct outreach to public water systems.
The EPA received numerous reports of sewage overflows and bypasses from the loss of power. The need for backup power is a recent requirement for system design; therefore, older facilities without backup or those who rely on alternate power service may also be impacted based on the extensive outage area. As outages continue, local officials are voicing concern about the length and amount of sewage overflows and bypasses.
Staff continues to survey sewage treatment facilities, assessing problems with loss of power to plants and pump stations.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is also reporting extensive power outages in 12 State Parks which resulted in the closure of the park facilities due to the loss of fire suppression systems in the buildings. The non-life threatening evacuation of visitors in these parks is being delayed due to debris-related issues and impacted roadways.
Emergency Support Function #4: Firefighting
There have been increases of fires as a result of using alternate sources of light or power. To date, all fire needs have been met by local fire departments. The Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of State Fire Marshal is reporting damage to the roof of its main building as a result of high winds.
Emergency Support Function #5: Emergency Management
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency ( EMA) activated the Emergency Operations Center ( EOC) September 14th and continues to monitor response activities. Ohio EMA staff has provided support to the County Emergency Management Directors and is coordinating local Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) surveys in impacted areas. Currently, Ohio EMA has received a total of 31 missions for the following types of support: generators, cell tower power restoration, debris removal and clean up, fuel support, ice, mass care shelters, and potable water haulers and containers.
Schools all across the state continue to be closed as a result of the extended outages. Major school systems in Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton have been closed since Monday, creating concern among officials about the impact on Ohio's school children.
Emergency Support Function #6: Mass Care
The Ohio Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) in Clark County has activated volunteers to help with damage assessment and is providing tetanus boosters for injuries. In Champaign County, the MRC has contacted volunteers to be on alert in case the EMA opens a shelter for special needs. Approximately fifteen medical special needs patients on oxygen have lost power and if it is not restored by September 17, they will need to be sheltered. Franklin County MRC has reported activation with ARC shelters. In Greene County the MRC has been contacted by the EMA Director about supporting an ARC shelter at Xenia - Edison with one licensed practical nurse and one registered nurse per shift.
The American Red Cross (ARC) has opened the Greene County Xenia - Edison shelter. Following is additional information regarding shelters that are open or plan to open. Decisions to open will be dependent upon shelter surveys and the need due to long-term power outages.
Hamilton County: 4 shelters
Montgomery County: 2 shelters
Knox County: 2 shelters
Licking County: 1 shelter
Fairfield County: 1 shelter
Franklin County: 1 shelter
The Salvation Army, in conjunction with Ohio Volunteers Active in Disasters (OH VOAD) is overseeing the feeding and care of eighty-five seniors in a Salvation Army high rise residence in Cincinnati. Also, the Salvation Army has established a canteen and is working with the Area Office on Aging/Meals on Wheels program. In Coshocton County, a facility is ready to be opened for sheltering and showers.
The OH VOAD is conducting a survey to determine the need of food pantries throughout the state to determine if there are sufficient food supplies and any shortages projected within the next five days. This information is essential to obtain food for local food pantries, especially those in blacked out areas. Food distribution may become a critical issue in the next few days.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) will replace food stamps for those customers already receiving food stamps that were without power for over four hours and have a need for replacement food. Also, ODJFS has experienced wind damage to one facility located at 4020 East Fifth Avenue in Columbus ( Franklin County).Damage does not pose an immediate threat to staff. Additionally, 9 ODJFS offices throughout the state are closed due to the lack of electricity. As of this morning ODJFS has been experiencing network connectivity and telephone outages in eighteen counties.
The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) is providing public service announcements to consumers regarding the process for documenting any damage and calling their insurance agents to begin the claims process. Also, consumers being are advised to be cautious of scams. ODI has contacted insurance companies to begin to gather information about the impact to insured losses. However, due to the extensive requests from Texas and other states impacted by Hurricane Ike, information will probably be delayed.
Emergency Support Function #7: Resources Support.
The Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS) has received numerous requests for generators that have subsequently been provided. Additionally, there have also been requests for water containers, water transport and fuel.
Emergency Support Function #8: Public Health
The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Environmental Health division has provided assistance to six counties and two city health departments.
Emergency Support Function #9: Search and Rescue
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) completed recovery operations for a boater reported missing at the Lake Milton State Park.
Emergency Support Function #10: Hazardous Materials
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responding to several reports of leaking pole-mounted electrical transformers, and one report of a residential fuel storage tank spill due to fallen trees and wind.
Emergency Support Function #11: Agriculture
The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) is working with local health departments assisting grocery stores to determine what food may need to be discarded. Forty (40) of one hundred sixty (160) poultry facilities have been inspected and have generators in operation. Inspectors continue to the check status of remaining facilities.
The Division of Meat Inspection is reporting a number of establishments scattered throughout Central, Southwest, West Central ( Dayton, Springfield), and East Central (Tuscarawas) without power. A number of meat inspection establishments are using backup generators with several looking for backup generators. Several establishments are closed in East Central (Strasburg Meats, Strasburg, Tilton's, Newcomerstown). A concern at this time is the loss of power and the impact to perishable products unless establishments can find portable refrigeration or find an establishment that has refrigerators to hold products.
ODA will be working with Farm Service Agency and Ohio State Univeristy Extension Service for crop and agribusiness damage reports based on reports of significant crop damage.
Emergency Support Function #12: Energy
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) reports peak statewide power outages at over 2 million customers, which is historic for Ohio. 1.45 million customers remained without power on Tuesday, September 16, 2008.
American Electric Power of Ohio ( AEP)
There are scattered outages throughout the state impacting a total of 447,520 customers. This represents 34% of customers served by AEP. Assessment is on-going with initial reports indicating full restoration estimated within seven (7) days.
Dayton Power and Electric (DP&L)
The utility is still receiving outage reports with over 150,000 reported out of service, as of September 15th.All 24 counties in the DP&L service area have reported damages and power outages. There are over 50 large transmission poles down. To date, there is no final total on number of distribution poles that have been knocked down. Additional crews are reporting from Indiana to support local efforts. Restorationis expected to continue into the weekend.
Duke Power
There are over 6,600 outages reported that are affecting approximately 469,987 customers. Currently there are 175 circuit lockouts across Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky which are preventing restoration of power. A total of 700 workers will be in the field today restoring service, assessing damage and clearing trees. Additional crews will be arriving tonight from North and South Carolina and contractors recalled from the Gulf Coast. A Duke Energy helicopter will fly lines throughout the area today to help assess the damage. Current estimated restoration time for all customers without power is Saturday, September 20, 2008.
First Energy
FirstEnergy has requested mutual aide assistance from partner power companies and contractors. FirstEnergy is moving personnel internally from unaffected areas to assist with restoration efforts. Additional crews are being brought in from Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania to support FirstEnergy crews. The timetable for total restoration to all customers is unknown at this time. Approximately 277,202 customers are without power.
Rural Electric Co-Operatives (Co-Ops)
The Rural Electric Cooperatives are continuing to perform damage assessment. Estimated time for restoration of power to customers is within the next two or three days to the end of the week. The Co-Ops have requested additional support crews from Michigan and Illinois. Approximately 39,000 customers are without power.
Although the situation continues to improve, all utilities are estimating 100% restoration will not occur until the end of the weekend.
Emergency Support Function #13: Law Enforcement
The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) has reported road closures but no serious incidents have occurred.
The Ohio Homeland Security (OHS) Office of Infrastructure Protection reported a company, JCI Jones, in Barberton, Ohio ( Summit County) that repackages chemical chlorine for use at municipal water treatment facilities and wastewater treatment facilities had been without power since the wind storm. JCI Jones had several chlorine deliveries scheduled in the next two days to municipal water facilities throughout Ohio. The Business Continuity Coordinator for First Energy was notified that the Company was without power, and repair crews are reportedly on scene at JCI Jones. If the deliveries are not made, several communities could be without potable water.
Emergency Support Function #14: Recovery and Mitigation
Ohio EMA staff has been in contact with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and has requested technical assistance regarding SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program for businesses that may have uninsured financial loss due to extended power outages.
Emergency Support Function #15: Emergency Public Information and External Affairs
The Joint Information Center is providing public safety advisories, conducting interviews and assisting with media inquiries. The Governor, Director of Public Safety and the Executive Director of Ohio EMA toured impacted areas in Dayton and Cincinnati Tuesday, September 16, 2008.
IMPACT TO THE STATE
The financial impact on Ohio is severe. Ohio's economy is already suffering and the state government has implemented $1.2 billion in spending reductions since the enactment of the biennial budget in June of 2008. The State has funded financial assistance for state-declared events this year which total over $1.4 million. The current event has resulted in additional costs to the state, including lost revenues due to the closure of 12 state parks. Additionally state and local governments have committed more than $5.5 million for the non-federal share of the most recent FEMA Public Assistance (PA) Program activations as well as multiple millions of dollars for previous presidentially declared disasters which have impacted the State over the past five years.
The information provided in this letter is based on preliminary assessments of the impact to the 88 counties within the State. Based on the impact from the extended power outages, the State may also seek assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration to assist the business community with financial recovery.
The State is seeking an emergency disaster declaration for FEMA's Public Assistance Program, Category B, Emergency Protective Measures statewide. A financial hardship does exist for recovery from this widespread historical disaster without supplemental federal disaster assistance.
I certify that for this emergency, the State and local governments will assume all applicable non-Federal share of costs required by the Stafford Act.
I am requesting direct Federal assistance for work and services to save lives and protect property. Due to the high demand for generators caused by the impact of Hurricane Ike and Gustav in the Gulf Coast region, there is a severe lack of available generators which are essential for restoration of power at critical facilities such as water treatment facilities, institutionalized populations, shelter centers and emergency service providers.
I have designated Nancy J. Dragani as the State Coordinating Officer for this request. She will work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency in damage assessments and may provide further information or justification on my behalf.
Sincerely,
Ted Strickland
Governor
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Public Safety and Ohio Emergency Management Agency are continuing to coordinate the state's response to the major wind storm that swept through Ohio Sunday, caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ike. Seven people lost their lives as a result of the storm, with widespread debris, damage and power outages impacting millions of Ohioans.
Ohio's electric utility providers during the past 48 hours in ongoing efforts to restore power to customers across the state, with a reduction in the number of affected customers from 1.92 million Monday to 897,000 this afternoon. As of 3 p.m.:
Governor Ted Strickland declared a state of emergency Monday in response to the widespread impact of Sunday's major wind storm. Today, Strickland sent a letter to President George W. Bush requesting Federal Aide to assist the State recovery efforts. State officials are monitoring the situation and coordinating resources to affected areas. State partners are working collectively in this effort and maintaining contact with their liaisons throughout the state and include the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and the Ohio State Highway Patrol, both divisions of the Ohio Department of Public Safety; Public Utilities Commission of Ohio; Ohio Department of Transportation; Ohio National Guard; Ohio Community Service Council; Department of Administrative Services; Ohio Department of Natural Resources; Ohio Department of Insurance; Department of Aging; Ohio Department of Health; and the American Red Cross.
Ohioans are again reminded to exercise caution in the use auxiliary power/lighting sources such as generators and candles through the extended power outages across the state. Citizens are also urged to allow utility crews and local officials to safely address utility infrastructure repairs and restoration efforts by following all the safety guidelines related to these types of hazards. For the latest information on the state's coordinated response to the storm, visit www.ema.ohio.gov.
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"When in doubt, throw it out."
The Ohio Department of Health urges residents to protect themselves from foodborne illnesses:
The Ohio Department of Agriculture reminds residents:
The Ohio Department of Education assures food safety in schools that have been without power:
The Ohio Department of Insurance advises residents interested in reimbursement for food costs:
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services advises food stamp recipients to:
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The National Safety Council urges consumers to follow these rules for portable generator safety:
The National Candle Association urges consumers to follow these rules for candle safety:
Power Companies urge consumers to follow these rules for handling downed power lines:
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced that 13 Ohio women will be inducted into the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame on Thursday.
"I congratulate these remarkable women on the valuable contributions they have made to their communities and businesses," Strickland said. "It is my hope that these inductees inspire other Ohio women to follow their aspirations and actively pursue their professional, community and civic goals."
The Ohio Women's Hall of Fame was established in 1978 by the women's division of the Ohio Bureau of Employment Services (now part of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services) to publicly recognize the many outstanding contributions Ohio women have made to their state and nation. Members of the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame have diverse backgrounds, but each has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to excellence, achievement and service to others.
The Ohio Women's Hall of Fame serves as a daily tribute to these women who are an ongoing source of pride and inspiration for all Ohioans, especially the state's next generation of leaders.
The 2008 Ohio Women's Hall of Fame inductees are:
Dorothy Champion Baunach, Cuyahoga County – Among her many accomplishments, Baunach is the president and CEO of NorTech, founding president of the Edison BioTechnology Center and treasurer of the Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition. She is currently leading a $2 million campaign for a women's center in the Cleveland neighborhood where she grew up.
Carrie Nelson Black, Franklin County, (1858-1936) – In 1906, Black founded and became the volunteer chief executive of the Columbus Society for the Prevention and Control of Tuberculosis (now the Breathing Association). She also launched a visiting nurses program in 1898, which is now the LifeCare Alliance. Black was a Columbus native and her legacy lives on in the work of the agencies that she founded more than 100 years ago.
Caro Bayley Bosca, Clark County, (1922-2007) – Bosca was one of the first women to fly during World War II and a former president of the WASP club. She became an International Women's Aerobatic Champion and set an official altitude record in 1951. She was named Aviation Woman of the year by Mademoiselle Magazine. Bosca, a Springfield native, was the mother of four children and a role model for many young women.
Yvette McGee Brown, Franklin County – Brown was a leader in creating the Center for Child and Family Advocacy at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She was the first African American judge in the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations and Juvenile Branch. Brown is active on numerous community boards and dedicated to promoting healthy lives for children and families. She is a native of Columbus and a graduate of Columbus City Schools.
Loann Crane, Franklin County – Crane is a dedicated philanthropist and supporter of the arts and equality in Ohio. She helped found the Women's Fund and has greatly impacted the Columbus community through her work with the Ohio State University Foundation, CCAD, Columbus Museum of Art, GCAC, and ProMusica. A Martins Ferry native, Crane is one of Columbus' most respected community leaders.
Joan Durgin, Lucas County – Durgin is a force for the support and advancement of young women and girls in Toledo and northwest Ohio. She developed the School Based Health Clinics in Toledo Public Schools, which provide various services, including disease prevention and primary health care. In 2003, Durgin founded the Polly Fox Academy, an alternative school for pregnant and parenting teen girls. Durgin has lived in northwest Ohio for most of her life and currently works for Toledo Public Schools.
Carol Gibbs, Hamilton County – Gibbs is the founder of Accountability and Credibility Together, Inc. (ACT), serving poor families with children. She is the president of the Cincinnati Council of PTAs and in 2007 began dedicating time and effort to the prevention of lead poisoning. Born in Dayton and raised in Cincinnati, Gibbs has committed herself to improving the lives of people in her community.
Billie A. Johnson, Lucas County – As executive director and CEO of the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Johnson is above all an advocate for the elderly. She established online services for seniors and has been an active member of local and national advocacy groups. Johnson has been serving older Ohioans in northwestern Ohio for more than three decades.
Dr. Jih-Fen Lei, Cuyahoga County – Director of Research and Technology Directorate at NASA's Glenn Research Center, Lei is a leader in propulsion, microgravity research, instrumentation and controls, nanotechnology and biotechnology. She has developed sensors and protective coating for aircraft and rocket applications. Lei actively mentors women and minorities in science and research careers.
Elizabeth Stewart Magee, Cuyahoga County, (1889-1972) – An advocate of women's and children's rights in the workforce, Magee was executive secretary of Ohio's Commission on Unemployment Insurance and held numerous other national and political positions, which was unusual for a woman in her era. She created the Ohio Plan, the foundation for today's national unemployment program, and campaigned to prevent child labor and to improve the status of migrant workers.
Dr. Kasturi V. Rajadhyaksha, Delaware County – As an advocate working toward equality and understanding for women and Asians in Ohio, Rajadhyaksha has worked in maternal and child health, family planning and the empowerment of women for more than 60 years in the United States and India as well as 20 other countries. She founded the Women of India Support Group (WISSIG), and co-founded the Asian American Commerce Group (AACG) as well as the Women to Women Mentoring Group.
Julie Salamon, Adams County – An esteemed author and journalist, Salamon has been a reporter for the Wall Street Journal, a movie critic, and a weekly columnist. Among her many award-winning books, her novella, The Christmas Tree (1996), became a New York Times Bestseller, has been translated into eight languages, and received an Audie Award for Best Inspirational/Spiritual Book. Salamon is active in organizations that provide care for the homeless who suffer from addiction or mental disease. A native of Seaman, Ohio, she currently resides in New York with her husband and children.
Michele G. Wheatly, Ph.D., Greene County – As dean of the College of Science and Mathematics at Wright State University, Wheatly is active in recruiting and ensuring the success of women in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. Since moving to Ohio in 1994, she has been using her expertise to further the involvement of women in science and mathematics in Ohio.
The Ohio Women's Hall of Fame program is administered by the Ohioana Library Association in partnership with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Governor's Office for Women's Initiatives and Outreach. Through this partnership, the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame will continue to honor Ohio women who emerge as leaders in their fields, often against great odds, with courage, determination and compassion.
The Friends of the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame, a group of private organizations and individuals who provide financial support to the program, has been established to help the program grow. For more information, contact the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame at (614) 466-3831 or Ohioana, 274 E. First Ave., Suite 300, Columbus, OH 43201.
The 2008 Ohio Women's Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. September 18 at the Ohio Statehouse Atrium.
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Columbus, Ohio – With highway crews working into a third day of clean-up efforts in response to the major wind storm that swept through Ohio Sunday, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has been able to significantly reduce the numbers of state roadways closed by debris and traffic signals darkened by electrical outages.
As of 3:00pm Tuesday afternoon, only 11 state roadways were closed and 1 roadway restricted due to debris, generally large fallen tree limbs and electrical lines. Most of those roadways still affected are in the Central and Southwest areas of the state, including:
Meanwhile, ODOT crews have restored function to several hundred traffic lights along the state system, reducing the number of outages from Monday's high of 438 signals to 245 signals (a sixth of the total number of signals on ODOT-maintained roads). The majority of the non-functioning traffic signals are concentrated in the Cincinnati metropolitan area, Dayton/Miamisburg, Akron/Canton, and parts of Central Ohio.
When possible, ODOT crews are using generators to power traffic signals, prioritizing intersections with the highest traffic volumes and greatest safety concerns. ODOT's traffic safety experts also warn that if you come to an intersection with a non-functioning traffic signal, treat it as a four-way stop.
For the latest updates on travel conditions and roadway restrictions, Ohioans have been turning to www.BuckeyeTraffic.org, ODOT's premier map-based traffic website. Registering thousands of hits a day, BuckeyeTraffic.org offers Ohio motorists clear and user-friendly information, as well as access to live traffic cameras and weather sensors, for the latest road conditions and potential detours.
Following Governor Ted Strickland's statewide declaration of emergency Monday, ODOT will be working with the Ohio Emergency Management Agency to offer assistance to local communities in removing debris from roadways. So far, ODOT crews have been asked to assist efforts in Greene County.
Citizens seeking to dispose of tree limbs from their yards should contact the refuse collection agency in their local community for information on special collection times, locations, and restrictions.
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Columbus, Ohio – The State Emergency Operation Center, the Ohio Petroleum Marketers Association and the Ohio Petroleum Council reassures Ohioans there is not a shortage of gas supply in Ohio.
"As we continue to work through the aftermath of Sunday's windstorm I encourage all Ohioans to be patient as we continue through the recovery process," Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Henry Guzmán said. "The gasoline supply is adequate and there is no need for motorists to fill up before they normally would or make extra trips to the gas station. This could create a safety problem where there would otherwise not be one."
Local emergency management agencies are reporting an abundance of complaints surrounding long waits of up to three hours to get gasoline. In addition citizens are concerned about a gasoline shortage, resulting from the power outage.
The Emergency Operations Center remains in contact with the Ohio Petroleum Marketers Council, which represents petroleum suppliers and the Ohio Petroleum Marketers Association, which represents petroleum distributors and retailers. The State of Ohio with the Ohio Petroleum Council and the Ohio Petroleum Marketers Association are assuring Ohioans' energy needs are satisfied over the course of the disaster.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Sept. 14 wind storm that left more than 2 million Ohioans facing long-term power outages is more than an inconvenience to food stamp recipients. According to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), food purchased with food stamps can be replaced in certain circumstances, including if it spoils because of a power outage lasting longer than four hours.
To replace spoiled food purchased with food stamps, individuals must visit their county department of job and family services (CDJFS) and complete and submit a "Statement Requesting Replacement of Food Stamp Benefits" form. This form must be submitted within 10 days of the event that caused the food to spoil (in this case, Sept. 14) or, if the person was away from home, 10 days from when the food spoilage was discovered. Individuals can request an amount equal to the amount of food lost, but not exceeding the food stamp allotment for the month in which the disaster occurred.
Additionally, ODJFS informed the directors of the county department of job and family and services (CDJFS) that they can offer disaster assistance to low-income victims of the storm. Through this program, each CDJFS can determine specific eligibility guidelines and the amount of funding that eligible individuals and families receive.
Families may qualify for up to $1,500 in Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) disaster assistance. Certain elderly and disabled individuals may qualify for up to $750 in disaster assistance.
To be eligible for TANF disaster assistance money, families must include a minor child or pregnant woman and have evidence of economic need. Elderly or disabled individuals who are not eligible for TANF assistance may be eligible for disaster assistance if they are at least 55 years old and childless, if they receive certain disability benefits, or if they were adversely affected by the severe weather and can provide evidence of economic need. Only one payment may be made per dwelling.
The local CDJFS offices will be accepting disaster assistance applications. A list of their addresses and telephone numbers may be found online at http://jfs.ohio.gov/County/cntydir.stm.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Tax Commissioner Richard A. Levin announced today that he is granting extensions to individuals and business taxpayers who have tax returns or bills due this week.
The extension is a response to the massive power outages caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ike, which swept through Ohio on Sunday. As a result of the commissioner's decision, any Ohio tax payment, report or return due this week may be filed on or before Monday, Sept. 22 without penalty.
"An enormous number of taxpayers are still without power, and that is obviously causing some real difficulty," Levin said today.
The deadline extension - authorized by the tax commissioner per section 5703.35 of the Ohio Revised Code - means that no penalties will be imposed for the late payment or filing of a return or report. However, by law, interest on late payments cannot be waived.
Examples of taxes that the deadline extension applies to include employer withholding payments and estimated state income tax payments. It also applies to all billing notices mailed by the department that set a deadline for this week.
Individuals and businesses who qualify for the extension do not have to file any special form. They may simply write or type, in bold letters, "Disaster Relief" across the top of a payment check, return or report at the time it is filed. The Ohio Department of Taxation will credit tax accounts accordingly.
Today's extension does not apply to payments and returns due on or after Sept. 23, such as the sales and use tax payments and returns due on that day.
Levin said the Department of Taxation will continue to monitor the situation, including the progress made by utility companies in restoring power throughout Ohio.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Public Safety and Ohio Emergency Management Agency are continuing to coordinate the state's response to the major wind storm that swept through Ohio Sunday, caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ike. Six people lost their lives as a result of the storm, with widespread debris, damage and power outages impacting millions of Ohioans.
Governor Ted Strickland declared a state of emergency Monday in response to the widespread impact of Sunday's major wind storm. State officials are monitoring the situation and coordinating resources to affected areas. State partners are working collectively in this effort and maintaining contact with their liaisons throughout the state and include the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and the Ohio State Highway Patrol, both divisions of the Ohio Department of Public Safety; Public Utilities Commission of Ohio; Ohio Department of Transportation; Ohio National Guard; Ohio Community Service Council; Department of Administrative Services; Ohio Department of Natural Resources; Ohio Department of Insurance; Department of Aging; Ohio Department of Health; and the American Red Cross.
Ohio's electric utility providers report significant progress has been made in the effort to restore power during the past 24 hours, with a reduction in the number of affected customers from 1.92 million yesterday, to 1.4 million this morning. As of 10 a.m.
The Governor will visit the Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus areas later today to view the storm's impact and meet with local officials for the latest local assessments of recovery activities. Joining the Governor for today's tour will be Ohio Adjutant General Greg Wayt, Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Henry Guzmán and Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Nancy Dragani.
Ohioans are again reminded to exercise caution as utility crews and local officials continue utility infrastructure repairs and restoration efforts. For the latest information on the state's coordinated response to the storm, visit www.ema.ohio.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Due to Sunday's severe weather, there are approximately 20 Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicle Deputy Registrar locations across the state that may be closed or offering limited services due to lack of power, or physical damage to the structure. This is down from approximately 40 agencies that were closed on Monday. The affected License Agencies are mainly in southwest and eastern Ohio. All but five central Ohio agencies are now open and operating normally.
Title offices, which work in conjunction with the BMV, in the following counties are still unable to process title work: Delaware, Harrison and Knox.
The Cincinnati (Hamilton Co.) reinstatement office is now open. It had been closed due to power outages.
Please be sure to call ahead to your local deputy registrar to verify they are open today and the rest of this week. The BMV apologizes for any inconveniences this may create for our customers. BMV staff will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
Please visit www.ohiobmv.com for more information.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today issued a state declaration of emergency, allowing the State greater flexibility in quickly allocating resources from state entities, such as the Ohio National Guard and the Ohio Department of Transportation, out to local communities.
The declaration follows a major wind storm Sunday that resulted in the loss of five lives and led to widespread power outages and damage across the state.
"The state of Ohio has experienced hurricane-level gusts of wind, which is obviously extremely unusual for our state," Strickland said. "We are staying in very close contact with our communities and doing everything in our power to assist the response and recovery to these extraordinary circumstances. Ohioans are strong and resilient, and I know that our citizens' first concern will be looking out for each other. And I will make sure that the State of Ohio stands with its people during this difficult time."
The Ohio Department of Public Safety is coordinating the response on the statewide level through the Ohio Emergency Management Agency. As of 11:55 a.m., there were 1.92 million customers without power across the state. The state declaration of emergency will allow Ohio greater flexibility of allocating resources to, among other things, help with local roads in need of clearing and to assist utilities in moving crews from around the state and nation to where they need to be to help get power restored as quickly as possible.
Other assessment updates include: 84 counties have reported damages or outages; an estimated 450 school districts are closed across the state; 11 counties have issued county level emergency declarations (Butler, Clark, Delaware, Greene, Hamilton, Knox, Licking, Madison, Montgomery, Morrow, Seneca; ODOT reports 46 roads are closed or restricted and one-third of the traffic signals on the state system are not functioning; county government offices are fully (Butler, Preble, Highland, Delaware) or partially (Clark) closed in five counties; numerous businesses and universities are closed or delayed.
Strickland urged Ohioans to remember that debris and power outages are causing hazards around the state, particularly in central and southwest Ohio. In particular, downed power lines are exceedingly dangerous.
"In this difficult time, I am asking Ohioans to pull together, look out for each other, check on their neighbors and share resources," Strickland said. "I have great confidence that the people of our state will work together to help us get through this difficult time."
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Columbus, Ohio – Due to Sunday's severe weather, there are approximately 40 Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicle Deputy Registrar locations across the state that may be closed or offering limited services due to lack of power, or physical damage to the structure. The affected License Agencies are mainly in southwest Ohio and Franklin County.
Title offices, which work in conjunction with the BMV, in the following counties are unable to process title work: Clermont, Clinton, Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Greene, Harrison, Highland, Licking, Madison and Morrow.
In addition, the Cincinnati (Hamilton Co.) reinstatement office will be closed until further notice due to power outages.
Please be sure to call ahead to your local deputy registrar to verify they are open today and the rest of this week. The BMV apologizes for any inconveniences this may create for our customers. BMV staff will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
Please visit www.ohiobmv.com for more information.
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Columbus, Ohio – Department of Administrative Services Director Hugh Quill announced early this morning that most state employees should report to work as normal, following the windstorm that swept through Ohio yesterday. (One exception below) Quill also said that Cabinet Directors and Board and Commission Executive Directors will be instructed to grant requests for personal leave, vacation time or compensatory time for those employees who request it due to windstorm-related issues.
Governor Ted Strickland asked all Ohioans early Monday morning to use extra caution on the roads over the next few days. Strickland also asked citizens to check in on their neighbors who may be without power, especially the elderly.
Quill said that most of the state's major office buildings in Ohio's largest cities had power or were operating on emergency generators as of 5:00 am Monday morning with the exception of:
DAS General Services Division at 4200 Surface Road, Columbus. Those Surface Road workers deemed essential state employees are to report to work. Other Surface Road employees are asked to call (614) 995-ASAP Monday morning before beginning their drive to work.
Information about power in many of the state's offices in smaller communities was not available as of 5:00 am Monday. Managers and supervisors should report to work in these offices and employees in these smaller communities should call their supervisor before reporting to work and listen to local media for updates
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio EPA has proposed new rules to establish a voluntary emissions credit banking system, which will make it easier for companies to build or expand in Ohio counties that don't meet federal air quality standards without jeopardizing progress toward clean air goals.
The Agency will hold a public hearing to take comments on the proposed rules September 23, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at Ohio EPA Lazarus Government Center, conference room A, 50 West Town Street, Suite 700, Columbus.
Under the Clean Air Act, a major source of air emissions cannot begin construction in a nonattainment area unless it obtains emission reduction credits, also known as emission offsets. For example, if a new facility wanting to locate in a nonattainment area is going to emit 100 tons per year of particulate matter, it would need to obtain the same amount of reductions from another source.
It can be time consuming and difficult for companies to find and verify available emission offsets. As a result, they often exclude areas not meeting air quality standards when considering a facility location. Ohio EPA's proposed banking system would make that information more readily available by posting available emission credits on the Agency's Web site.
Written comments should be submitted to Ohio EPA by the close of business on September 23, 2008. Written statements submitted after that date may be considered as time and circumstances permit, but will not be part of the official public record.
Information about the proposed rules can be obtained on Ohio EPA's Web site: http://www.epa.state.oh.us/dapc/regs/regs.html. Scroll to Chapter 3745-1111 of the rules. Copies of the proposed rules are available at that location or by contacting Robyn Kenney at (614) 644-3425, or by e-mail, robyn.kenney@epa.state.oh.us. Comments also can be e-mailed to Robyn Kenney, at the same e-mail address, or sent to Ms. Kenney =s attention at Ohio EPA, Division of Air Pollution Control, Lazarus Government Center, P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, 43216-1049.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has issued the following proclamation in honor of Patriot Day and has ordered all state and U.S. flags at public buildings and grounds to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday in remembrance of September 11, 2001.
On September 11th of each year, we observe Patriot Day as a remembrance of the lives lost and the selfless dedication of members of our public safety community on that day in 2001. We also honor the families and loved ones left behind.
In observance of Patriot Day, I hereby proclaim by the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Ohio by the Ohio Constitution and the laws of the United States of America that all flags of the United States and the State of Ohio shall be flown at half-staff upon all public buildings and grounds throughout the State of Ohio from Sunrise until Sunset Thursday September 11, 2008.
On this ninth day of September 2008
Ted Strickland
Governor
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Columbus, Ohio – As the national economic slowdown continues to deprive Ohio of expected revenues, Governor Ted Strickland today ordered $540 million in budget adjustments in order to make sure Ohio's budget remains in balance.
This reduction comes in addition to a $733 million budget adjustment plan announced last January, for a total of $1.27 billion in budget adjustments over the biennium.
"I believe this decision is the best way forward given the challenging economic environment we face in the months ahead," Strickland said. "We are making tough decisions, while also protecting the core priorities such as investing in education, children's health care and tax reform that I believe will help revitalize our economy in the long run."
"The best long-term solution is to get the national and Ohio economies moving again," Strickland said. "When you look at our $1.57 billion jobs bill and our recently-enacted energy bill, I believe Ohio is doing more than any other state. It's time for a more aggressive and more vigorous jobs stimulus package at the national level."
The adjustment includes a 4.75 percent across-the-board cut to state agencies, after holding harmless key programs, and while also protecting tax reform passed by previous legislatures, the newly-established homestead tax cut, children's health care expansions, the tuition freeze for state colleges and universities, and increased funding for local school districts.
Strickland decided not to ask the legislature for additional authority to use funds from the state's rainy day fund, primarily because he believes that those funds may be needed if there is further weakening in the national economy, as many are predicting today.
"I think it's safe to say it's raining now, but I fear there's a larger storm looming ahead," Strickland said.
Strickland also praised state employees for their hard work and dedication.
"While we were able to protect core priorities, today's announcement will offer true challenges for state employees," Strickland said. "We honor the work that they do every day, particularly during this difficult time."
Specific line items fully exempted include: Medicaid (line item 525); Department of Education line items for foundation funding, pupil transportation, gifted pupil program, special education enhancements and career/technical education enhancements; Board of Regents line items for OCOG, OIG, SSI and capital component; Ohio Department of Job and Family Services line item for Disability Financial Assistance; Expositions line item for Junior Fair Subsidy; all GRF line items within the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction; all GRF line items within the Department of Youth Services; Ballot Board advertising reimbursement; Secretary of State line items for poll worker training and county postage reimbursement; debt service line items; line items related to tax relief; and all GRF line items for the legislative and judicial agencies.
Additionally, the Department of Taxation's revenue generation activities will receive a reduced cut of 2 percent across the board. Finally, the Community and Hospital Mental Health Services (line item 408) in the Department of Mental Health will receive a reduced cut of 2 percent.
Budget reductions announced today will result in $198 million less being spent by state agencies through June 30, 2009. The remaining $342 million shortfall will be made up through a variety of cash management actions.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio EPA has issued a permit that will allow FirstEnergy to test the feasibility of injecting carbon dioxide deep into the ground in an experimental well it owns at the R.E. Burger Power Plant in Shadyside. Battelle Memorial Institute is operating this project in partnership with FirstEnergy.
Ohio EPA held an information session and public hearing on June 24 at Shadyside High School regarding the draft permit. The draft permit explained terms of how the well would be used. All comments, including written comments to the Agency by July 7, 2008, were considered prior to the final decision on issuance of the permit.
Ohio EPA's deep well regulations are designed to protect underground sources of drinking water so they don't become contaminated by the injected material. In order for the carbon dioxide to be sequestered, or stored indefinitely, it must be heated under pressure to the point that it has properties of both a gas and liquid. Once it reaches this critical phase, it is injected individually into three different rock formations: the 8,207 to 8,274-foot deep Clinton sandstone; the 6,734 to 7,470-foot deep Salina formation and the 5,923 to 5,954-foot deep Oriskany sandstone.
"Experimental technology is more than promising. It's necessary," said Ohio EPA Director Chris Korleski. "I'm proud of the researchers working in Ohio who are leading the way with carbon sequestration studies. While this is just a pilot project, on-the- ground projects like this will play a key role in helping us address climate change."
Issuance of the permit can be appealed to the Environmental Review Appeals Commission (ERAC). Many appeals must be filed within 30 days of issuing the final action; therefore, Ohio EPA recommends that anyone wishing to file an appeal contact ERAC at (614) 466-8950 for more information.
People who wish to receive copies of fact sheets and other information about the permit may contact Ohio EPA, Division of Drinking and Ground Waters, P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, Ohio 43216-1049, Attn: E. Charles Lowe, (614) 644-2752. Copies of the permit also may be reviewed at the Shadyside Public Library of Belmont County, 4300 Central Avenue, Shadyside; at the Ohio EPA Southeast District Office, 2195 Front Street, Logan, OH, (740) 385 8501; or at Ohio EPA, Central Office, 50 W. Town St., Columbus, OH, by first contacting E. Charles Lowe (614) 644-2752.
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Columbus, Ohio – Sixteen proposals totaling $4.2 million approved by the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission will generate $15.7 million in federal vocational rehabilitation (VR) funds for Ohioans with disabilities this year.
"These projects will assist thousands of Ohioans with disabilities find meaningful jobs and careers, from youngsters in high school, veterans returning from Iraq, and Baby Boomers," said John Connelly, executive director of RSC, the state agency that helps provide jobs, independence and benefits for people with disabilities. Collectively the projects comprise RSC's Pathways II program.
The recipients are county and other local government entities that serve people with disabilities. All tallied, Pathways commits nearly $20 million to Ohioans with disabilities.
"Pathways is a creative collaboration among RSC, public entities and community rehabilitation services," said Connelly. "We're stretching the dollars we have as far as they will go."
RSC sought Pathways bids in July to generate new VR programs for veterans, youths (ages 16-21), and people with severe mental disabilities. Pathways also preserves federal dollars dedicated to Ohio by the Rehabilitation Services Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Education. Essentially, RSC replaces state funds lost from budget cuts with local cash targeted for services to people with disabilities. Every dollar RSC gets in state or local funding generates $3.69 in federal money for VR services.
"Pathways is the proverbial win-win situation," said Connelly. "RSC can keep needed federal dollars in Ohio and maintain its services; and the local recipients can expand their service. The people receiving services gain independence and become taxpayers."
The federal money Pathways generates, however, must be spent in the jurisdictions of grant recipients, noted Connelly. Federal funds derived from state dollars are applied statewide. RSC approved Pathways contracts in each of its four regional service areas.
"Pathways is not a long-term replacement for state funding," Connelly said. "It saves federal funds for Ohio, but those funds have to be spent in the local jurisdictions."
Each Pathways project will be managed by RSC counselors and administrators. Every participant must have an individual employment plan approved by an RSC counselor. The state agency will review the projects annually. Pathways II is expected to last five years.
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Tiffin, Ohio – The State of Ohio will hold a miscellaneous property auction Saturday, Sept. 13 at the Tiffin Developmental Center, 600 N. River Road, Tiffin.
Items available for purchase include tables and chairs, kitchen wares, a John Deere tractor, outdoor furniture, exercise equipment, assorted tools, and bathtub and shower equipment. To view the items, please visit http://www.das.ohio.gov/gsd/PropFac/Surplus/offsite/index.htm.
Purchased items must be paid for in full the day of the sale. Cash and credit cards are accepted. All methods of payment other than cash must be approved by the auctioneers, Cassel & Associates.
All purchased items must be picked up by 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17.
Surplus property auctions provide the general public an opportunity to purchase quality goods at reduced prices and enable the state to recoup a portion of its initial investment. Miscellaneous property and vehicle auctions have generated more than $370,000 to date during fiscal year 2009.
Public auctions are the last step in the state's surplus program. State agencies declare property as surplus because it is damaged or at the end of its life cycle for government use. The property then is made available to other state agencies, state higher education facilities, tax-supported agencies, municipal corporations and other political subdivisions of the state, including public schools. Remaining property is sold at the public auctions.
For more information, please contact Deb Mosser or Don Pummell of the Tiffin Developmental Center at (419) 447-1450 or visit the State and Federal Surplus Services Web site at http://www.das.ohio.gov/gsd/PropFac/Surplus/offsite.htm.
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Columbus, Ohio – A move to eliminate part of an Ohio consumer protection rule would make it easier for telephone companies to disconnect some customers and should be rejected, according to the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC), the residential utility consumer advocate. The OCC and other consumer groups will file their response today to initial comments made by telephone companies, which have largely supported the rule change.
The proposal by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio's (PUCO) staff would eliminate a safety net for telephone customers with bundled services who are not able to pay their entire bill. Bundled services are packages of products which may include a basic dial tone along with features such as call waiting, and unregulated services ranging from dish satellite television to Internet.
Currently, customers can keep their local service by making partial payments on their bill. The OCC is asking the PUCO to ensure customers with bundled services can at least keep their essential, basic dial tone connection, which has been the case for the better part of 20 years in Ohio.
"Consumer protections for basic dial tone are critical," said Janine Migden-Ostrander, Consumers' Counsel. "If consumers are more easily disconnected because they can not pay for extra services, more than 20 years of PUCO efforts to keep consumers connected to a dial tone will be undone. Telephone service is the lifeline Ohioans need for essential communications such as calls to their doctor and checking on their children."
Basic dial tone service is regulated by the PUCO. Traditional local telephone companies such as AT&T, Embarq, Verizon, Cincinnati Bell, Windstream and many competitive providers must follow the PUCO's Minimum Telephone Service Standards, which include disconnection and payment rules.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland and officials at the Ohio Department of Mental Health (ODMH), and leaders from Oglethorpe Inc., announced today Oglethorpe's purchase of Appalachian Behavioral Healthcare Cambridge Campus, the recently-closed psychiatric hospital campus in Guernsey County.
"Oglethorpe's purchase of the Cambridge hospital property is a perfect example of how the state, local communities and private businesses can partner together for the common benefit of all," Strickland said.
Oglethorpe Inc., a private, Tampa-based behavioral healthcare corporation, plans to phase in operation of a 48-bed in-patient psychiatric hospital and a 16-bed substance abuse treatment facility on the 40-acre Cambridge campus previously operated by the state. Oglethorpe Inc. already owns one facility in Gahanna, Ohio.
"I am pleased that this Cambridge hospital property will continue to be used in a similar way – to meet the needs of people," said ODMH Director Sandra Stephenson. "I know that the Cambridge campus closure was a great loss to the community – in jobs and in treatment options. Oglethorpe will begin to fill that void by providing local jobs and initiating in-patient psychiatric care in this part of the state. Rep. Jennifer Garrison, county mental health board staff and other community leaders were of great support as we sought a replacement that would benefit the community. Their collaboration was instrumental in making this happen."
As part of cost-cutting measures for the 2008-2009 biennial budget, the state consolidated its two Appalachian regional psychiatric hospitals (located in Athens and Cambridge) into one at its Athens location. The state increased the staffing and bed capacity in Athens and closed the Cambridge facility on June 30 of this year.
"We are looking forward to working with the Ohio Department of Mental Health and the local communities in opening the new Cambridge Behavioral Hospital," said Jim O'Shea, Oglethorpe's chief operating officer.
ODMH has been considering alternative uses for its Cambridge property since the hospital consolidation and closure were announced. Discussions among ODMH, the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, and Oglethorpe Inc. began in the Spring and have culminated in a purchase agreement that allows for immediate possession of three buildings: Oldham, Fletcher and Keller. Oglethorpe has already begun advertising locally to fill jobs.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's economic future depends on the state's ability to develop a world-class workforce to meet the needs of business and industry leaders. The 21st century global economy is demanding more than ever from today's students, and the state's education system needs to ensure that students graduate with the knowledge, skills and behaviors they need to succeed in the fast-paced, technology-driven workplace.
The State Board of Education recognizes that graduating students who are well-prepared for the 21st century is key to maintaining global competitiveness for the United States and Ohio. In 2007, the State Board created the Subcommittee for Education in the Global Economy and charged it with examining the issues surrounding the question: "Looking ahead to 2020, what will be the most important skills, knowledge and behaviors for students to acquire to provide Ohio with competitive advantages in the global economy?"
To answer this question, the Subcommittee conducted a study from September 2007 through April 2008, which included an extensive literature review, 16 interviews with Ohio business and government leaders and an online survey. The result of this work is a Top 10 list of the most important skills, knowledge and behaviors students will need to succeed in the global economy, and ways to strengthen the education system to better meet students' needs.
"The Subcommittee's work builds upon the forward-looking educational policy development the State Board has been involved with for the past several years, including the Achieve Report in 2006 and the Global Economic Summit in 2007," Subcommittee Co-chair Colleen Grady said. "We are pleased this work is consistent with the school reform work currently being done by the governor and other policymakers."
Through its work, the Subcommittee has initiated dialogues with Ohio business leaders to learn more about what employers will demand from graduates in the future.
"The recently released State and Local Report Cards show Ohio has made incremental gains in student achievement over the years," Subcommittee Co-chair Stephen Millett said. "However, there needs to be a collaborative effort among all education stakeholders to accelerate the progress."
The following Top 10 list is the result of that research:
*While these are not necessarily skills, knowledge or behaviors, they were among the top 10 responses and address changes needed in Ohio's education system.
Ohio's education system requires the participation of all citizens, and the Subcommittee is asking for feedback on the Top 10 list. The public is invited to visit www.10ideasforeducation.ohio.gov and fill out an online survey about the ideas in the Top 10 list and how they might be implemented in Ohio's education system.
In addition to the online survey, the Subcommittee has invited education and business stakeholders to discuss the Top 10 list during 10 regional meetings sponsored by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) throughout September.
Using this feedback, the Subcommittee will develop a report that will drive policy recommendations and best practices for educators to prepare Ohio students to succeed in the global economy.
The work of the Subcommittee for Education in the Global Economy is part of a larger initiative of the State Board of Education to develop a comprehensive education reform plan. In July, the State Board reached consensus on a vision document, "Meeting the Challenges of the 21st Century: A Vision for Transforming PK-12 Education in Ohio." In 2008-2009, the Board will work with the governor, legislative leaders, education stakeholders and the public to implement the goals and strategies outlined in the vision.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio EPA's proposed plan to bring 27 counties into compliance with the federal air quality standard for particulate matter will be the focus of two public hearings on September 16 and 17, 2008.
The September 16 hearing will begin at 7 p.m. at the Hilliard Branch of the Columbus Public Library, 4772 Cemetery Road, Hilliard. The September 17 hearing will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Twinsburg Public Library, meeting room 1, 10050 Ravenna Road, Twinsburg.
Ohio is submitting its plan based on air quality modeling results. Air quality modeling is a tool used to simulate future air quality based on estimated future emission levels and weather conditions that are conducive to particulate matter formation. The plan contains national, state and local controls to improve air quality, including: lower emissions from coal-burning power plants, additional controls on diesel-powered vehicles and enforcement efforts.
Currently, nine metropolitan areas do not meet the national particulate matter standard. The