Buckeye Reporter

Jon Husted, U.S. Senator from Ohio, visited several regions across the state to meet with business leaders, educators, and policymakers as part of his ongoing efforts to highlight economic development and educational initiatives.

During a stop in Columbus, Husted addressed participants at the Ohio Chamber’s Future Forum. The event brought together industry leaders, innovators, trade organizations, and policymakers to discuss strategies for Ohio’s economic growth. “Nearly 20 years ago, Ohio ranked among the worst states to do business. Today, we’re the fifth best. The Ohio Chamber’s Future Forum highlights how pro-growth policies are propelling our state forward, and it was great to join them,” said Husted.

Husted also participated in the annual conference of the Ohio Trucking Association in Columbus. He noted the sector's significant role in employment and commerce within the state. “The trucking industry is integral to Ohio’s economy. It supports 385,320 jobs and 44,100 businesses. The Ohio Trucking Association advocates for the drivers who keep America moving by delivering the products and supplies we rely on every day,” he said.

In support of truckers and manufacturing jobs, Husted referenced his Resilient Tire Supply and Jobs Act—a legislative proposal that would introduce a tax credit for consumers purchasing tires retreaded in America.

The senator met with members of the Taiwan Agricultural Goodwill Delegation to discuss agricultural exports from Ohio. “Taiwan is Ohio’s 12th-largest export destination and an important partner for our state’s agriculture and economy.I will continue working to remove barriers for U.S. goods so Ohio can stay competitive and provide the resources we need to thrive,” said Husted.

At Rhodes State College in Lima, Husted reviewed campus facilities and discussed how changes in federal budget law expanding Workforce Pell Grants could help make career training more accessible for students pursuing engineering technology or health care degrees. “Engineering tech degrees and health care programs at Rhodes State College prepare the local workforce to help local employers compete. I supported Workforce Pell in the budget law to make these programs more affordable by expanding access to Pell Grants, so that students can have job security and higher earning power,” he said.

Husted highlighted his recent legislative efforts—the DECIDE Act and Student Debt Alternative and CTE Awareness Act—aimed at providing students with more information about education options while helping them avoid excessive debt.

In Columbus, Husted joined Education Secretary Lisa McMahon to discuss Science of Reading training for teachers across Ohio—a program intended to improve literacy outcomes among students statewide. “Reading is the foundation for learning and education. If students cannot read effectively, they cannot learn effectively. I enjoyed talking with Secretary McMahon about how we can make sure Ohio’s educators have the best strategies to keep our students competitive and literate,” said Husted.

Another announcement came during a visit with JobsOhio: Centrus Energy Corp.’s $1.7 billion investment will expand its American Centrifuge Plant in Piketon, creating nearly 300 new high-wage jobs focused on uranium enrichment technologies essential for nuclear energy production nationwide. “We need to make the things that matter to our national and economic security in America with American companies. Expanding our ability to enrich uranium here in Ohio will continue America’s legacy as the global leader in nuclear development..." said Husted.

Finally, Husted attended a groundbreaking ceremony for Dayton's new onMain Innovation Hub—a partnership between University of Dayton and Premier Health designed as part of a network of state-supported innovation centers featuring residential spaces alongside business incubators and community areas. “Ohio is investing in innovation, and onMain is where innovation becomes reality.This new space will support local jobs and advance technology in the Dayton community and beyond...” said Husted.