Jena Powell

COVID-19 Suicide and Overdose Call Data – Troy, Ohio

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Let’s talk about numbers. Americans have 1% chance of contracting Covid-19 and .04% chance of dying from it.

Year to date suicide calls in Troy, Ohio, our community, have increased 267%.

Two hundred and sixty-seven percent.

We cannot live in fear, we must care for our family, neighbors, and community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Over the years we’ve been at war with a raging drug epidemic. Through so much work in our community, we were seeing amazing headway on fighting the drug  epidemic that’s been plaguing too many families for years.

Sadly, year to date, we have a 178% increase in overdose calls in 2020.

This is heartbreaking to see in our community.

We cannot continue to live in fear over Covid-19 and allow individuals to be in isolation fighting suicide and overdose alone.

 

 

 

 

As a community, we must be aware of the true numbers and data in our community.

Overdose calls year to date are up 178%. Suicide calls year to date are up 267%.

1% of Americans have contracted COVID-19 and .04% have died from it. 

 

State Representative Jena Powell is currently serving her first term as a state representative. She represents the 80th Ohio House District, which encompasses Miami County and a portion of Darke County. For more information, contact Rep Powell’s office at 614-466-8114 or Rep80@ohiohouse.gov.

Jena Powell

Open Letter To Pastors & Churches of Miami and Darke Counties

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Hi! I’m Jena Powell, your State Representative. Thank you for serving our community through your calling as a pastor, and through your leadership with your Church.

I wanted to tell you a little bit about myself and about my testimony. I grew up on a farm in southern Darke County. Currently, I own a billboard company with my family across Ohio and Indiana called Huntington Outdoor. While in Columbus, I work to reduce regulation, cut taxes, enact pro-life and pro-family legislation, and defend our 2nd Amendment rights. As a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, I view every policy through the lens of Scripture.

The gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died for our sins and rose again, having eternal victory over sin. Romans 10:9 says that “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

We are sinners in need of a Savior, because sin brings death upon us. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The good news is that Jesus came down to earth, lived a perfect life, and was the atonement for our sins. As Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” We are forgiven of our sins when we call upon the name of the Lord. That’s the gospel. But the chief good of the gospel is not forgiveness, justification, or eternal life — as wonderful as these are. The highest, fullest, deepest, sweetest good of the gospel is God Himself, enjoyed by His redeemed people. The gospel is the good news that we get to be in relationship with Jesus and get to worship Jesus, every single day. No work we do can earn salvation; it’s already bought by Jesus by His perfect life. What a beautiful gift He gives His people.

I am incredibly blessed by His gift of salvation in my life. As an undeserving sinner, my Hope is in Jesus Christ alone.

The Christian church is not a building, but a body of believers united in Christ. Its role is to worship God, nurture and edify and reach out to a suffering world with the saving message of the gospel as well as the practical compassion and mercy exemplified in Christ.

With this knowledge, the church should be at the heart of every community – sharing the Gospel, loving our neighbors, and providing a space for fellowship. I will always be fighting for religious liberty, and for the rights of churches to be faithful to their witness in the world.

Thank you again for everything that you do for individuals and families in our community. If there is ever anything that our office can do to serve you, or if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can call us at 614-466-8114 or email us at Rep80@ohiohouse.gov.

Sincerely,

Jena Powell

State Representative | OH-80

State Representative Jena Powell represents Ohio’s 80th House District. She can be reached at Rep80@ohiohouse.gov or (614) 466-8114.

Team Powell

Congratulations, Troy Christian Graduates!

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Congrats, Troy Christian Class of 2020!

We are so proud of each of you, and of the effort you have put forth. Best wishes on your future successes!

Chase Aivalotis

Owen Bailey

Matthew Beachy

Jason Blake

Emil Bowen

Lauren  Camp

Jared Chong

Brady Clawson

Jenna Douglas

Sarah Earhart

Conrad Echemann

Claudia Fecher

Izaak Frantom

Abigail   Gilfillen

Aaron Gillespie

Gracie Glaser

Isaac Gray

Anna Hivner

CalebHundley

Nathaniel Hunnicutt

Jordan  Isenbarger

Gabriel Ison

Tyler Jackson

Laura Johnson

Joel Kellar

William Kenworthy

Ryley Kincaid

Preston Lair

Isaac Leganik

Samantha Lentz

Bennett Lowry

Jaelyn Manley

Jonah Mathews

Kaitlyn  Misirian

Craig Montgomery

Katie Nefedov

Connor Peters

Cherish Pierce

Kristen  Rodrigues

Alexis Salazar

Hope Sando

Caleb Schroer

Richard Schulte

Zachary Seagraves

Collin Sebor

Christopher Setser

Andrew Shaffer

Eleanor Smith

Rachel   Stewart

Kirsten  Strait

Kalista   Swihart

Chase Tanner

Emma Taylor

Kelly Tighe

Aiden Tkach

Micah Trimbach

Ethan Turner

Robert  Ventura

Olivia Voisinet

Nathan Waltz

Aaron Warden

Chase Weyrauch

Brittin Williams

Charles Wolfe

-Office of State Rep. Jena Powell

Team Powell

Congratulations, Bradford Graduates!

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Congrats, Bradford Class of 2020!

We are so proud of all the work you have put into your studies, and wish you all the best of success!

Hunter Beireis

Tristin Booker

Dalton Bubeck

Keanan Clark

Corey Cotrell

Drew Davidson

Victoria Derstine

Dylan Fair

Kegan Fair

Madison Fries

Erica Gaynor

Gabriel Gill

Caroline Gleason

Corie Hamilton

Brant Helman

Riley Houser

EJ Jones

Jaiden Leistner

Jeffrey Martin

Kaileigh McGlinch

Nick Mowery

Josh Nusbaum

Savannah Penny

Jacob Phillips

Kaitlynne Reineke

Jonathan Richardson-Welch

Jay Roberts

Jessica Roth

Brayden Sanders

Shelby Shafer

Jared Shellabarger

Mercedes Smith

Wyatt Spangler

Fischer Spencer

Jericka Thacker

Gavin Trevino

-Office of State Rep. Jena Powell

Jena Powell

OP-ED: Powell Announces House Passage of Oversight Bill

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For Immediate Release:
May 6, 2020

OP-ED: Powell Announces House Passage of Oversight Bill

When I go to Columbus, I fight to represent my community in Miami and Southern Darke County. We want to do everything we can to protect everyone in our community, including the elderly and the immunocompromised.

Back in March, we had limited data with regard to COVID-19. Governor DeWine made a decision with the data he had at that point.

Businesses, families, and nonprofits rose to the challenge of flattening the curve.
As we’ve looked at COVID-19 and the current data, we have a growing concern and frustration.
We worked tirelessly to flatten the curve and we protected the vulnerable… now, the data from the virus has shown us that it is not as deadly or as contagious as once thought back in March.
In our communities, we are seeing:


• Suicide rates increase
• Child abuse increase
• Small businesses fall apart
• Unemployment skyrocket


This is unacceptable with the data we now have.


When our community urged Dr. Acton to open Ohio safely, Dr. Acton instead extended the Stay Safe order through the month of May.

While bureaucrats can sit in their million dollar condos in Columbus and sign the Stay at Home order, my community doesn’t have the luxury of doing that. We have to get back to work and we can do it safely.


That is why Substitute Senate Bill 1 is crucial.


We have three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial – none of which is more important than the others. Checks and balances in government are crucial as we move forward.
We have to make sure that everyone’s voice is being heard. That is what Sub. S.B. 1 does.


Today, I voted yes on Sub. S.B. 1 to allow a legislative checks and balances on Dr. Acton’s power. All orders issued by the Director of the Department of Health will cease after 14 days unless the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review votes for an extension.


In addition, Sub. S.B. 1 will reduce government regulation and cut red tape by requiring state agencies to reduce their regulatory restrictions by 30% by 2022 and by prohibiting an agency from adopting new regulatory restrictions that increase their restriction percentage of rules.
I also voted yes on S.B. 55, which included an amendment to decriminalize violations of health department orders related to the pandemic.


This is a step in the right direction to ensure your voice is being heard in Columbus.


-Jena Powell – State Rep. | Ohio 80 

State Representative Jena Powell is currently serving her first term as a state representative. She represents the 80th Ohio House District, which encompasses Miami County and a portion of Darke County.

Jena Powell

OPEN OHIO RESPONSIBLY PETITION

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OPEN OHIO RESPONSIBLY

Thank you for signing the \'OPEN OHIO RESPONSIBLY\' Petition

A DATA DRIVEN, APPLIED SCIENCE APPROACH FOR OPENING OHIO FOR ALL OHIOANS
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:

1. Based on current data, scientific application and actual results, we believe a responsible opening of all
businesses can, and should, begin on or before May 1st, 2020.

2. We respect past concerns regarding not overwhelming our hospitals, health systems, front line healthcare workers and first responders as well as ensuring there is an adequate supply of Personal Protective Equipment for them. In Ohio, we believe we are now past that stage of concern.

3. We respect and greatly appreciate all the healthcare workers and first responders’ efforts during this challenging time as well as all the businesses/organizations that have continued to operate through the Shelter in Place Executive Order.

4. We believe the COVID-19 virus is a real threat and especially problematic for the more vulnerable, the elderly and immuno-compromised people. We should continue our measures to protect this population as well as those who are infected with COVID-19.

5. We believe an overwhelming number of Ohioans are responsible citizens and care for each other.

6. We believe all businesses in Ohio are essential.

7. We respect individuals, business owners and employees’ rights to choose how to protect themselves and their loved ones.

8. Many businesses have already modified their operating protocols to safely function in this current
environment. Businesses/organizations recognize if they do not make it safe for their employees and customers, they will not come back.

9. We respect the right for businesses to not open until they are prepared to do so safely.

10. Many people will choose to continue to shelter in place. We respect their choices and right to make those decisions.

11. We believe there are, and will continue to be, major secondary affects from COVID-19 policy
decisions.

12. We believe it is time to trust Ohioans. They have respectfully followed the guidelines and NOW is the time to responsibly open all businesses.

Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans
RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES EFFECTIVE ON OR BEFORE MAY 1ST, 2020

All businesses/organizations are strongly recommended to follow the Center for Disease
Control (CDC) guidelines and are advised to follow appropriate social distancing and
other COVID-19 related precautionary guidelines. Local authorities are advised to assist
in managing clarity regarding uncertainty. See below for link to CDC guidelines.
Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans

CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS:
1. The Governor will assign Strategic Guidelines for Implementation to local governing bodies including
County Commissioners and County Health Boards.
2. Best practices emerging in the state can be monitored and shared via the Governor’s task force.
3. Intent is to provide Ohioans more personal control over their local epidemic prevention actions. This
will:

a. Increase public involvement in community epidemic preventative actions.
b. Generate personal initiative and ownership in generating effective prevention.
c. Create a sense of hope and proactive behavior in our communities.

OTHER RECOMMENDED COVID-19 RELATED PRECAUTIONARY GUIDELINES:
1. If anyone falls within the “more susceptible” profile they are STRONGLY encouraged to stay at
home.

2. Anyone with a fever can be refused entry and should be advised to seek medical advice immediately.

3. Social distancing should be practiced.

4. All businesses/organizations are encouraged to implement on-going sanitization and cleansing.
Businesses/organizations are advised to work with local authorities if guidance is needed.

5. If you feel sick stay home. If your children are sick, keep them at home.

6. If you are an older person or have a serious underlying health condition, stay home and stay away
from other people.

7. If someone in your household has tested positive keep the entire household at home.

8. Work or study from home whenever possible.

9. Always practice good hygiene – wash your hands, avoid touching your face, sneeze or cough into a
tissue or the inside of your elbow.

Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans

**your signature**

2,520 signatures

Share this with your friends:

   

Jena Powell

OPEN OHIO RESPONSIBLY FRAMEWORK

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OPEN OHIO RESPONSIBLY

Thank you for signing the \'OPEN OHIO RESPONSIBLY\' Petition

A DATA DRIVEN, APPLIED SCIENCE APPROACH FOR OPENING OHIO FOR ALL OHIOANS
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:

1. Based on current data, scientific application and actual results, we believe a responsible opening of all
businesses can, and should, begin on or before May 1st, 2020.

2. We respect past concerns regarding not overwhelming our hospitals, health systems, front line healthcare workers and first responders as well as ensuring there is an adequate supply of Personal Protective Equipment for them. In Ohio, we believe we are now past that stage of concern.

3. We respect and greatly appreciate all the healthcare workers and first responders’ efforts during this challenging time as well as all the businesses/organizations that have continued to operate through the Shelter in Place Executive Order.

4. We believe the COVID-19 virus is a real threat and especially problematic for the more vulnerable, the elderly and immuno-compromised people. We should continue our measures to protect this population as well as those who are infected with COVID-19.

5. We believe an overwhelming number of Ohioans are responsible citizens and care for each other.

6. We believe all businesses in Ohio are essential.

7. We respect individuals, business owners and employees’ rights to choose how to protect themselves and their loved ones.

8. Many businesses have already modified their operating protocols to safely function in this current
environment. Businesses/organizations recognize if they do not make it safe for their employees and customers, they will not come back.

9. We respect the right for businesses to not open until they are prepared to do so safely.

10. Many people will choose to continue to shelter in place. We respect their choices and right to make those decisions.

11. We believe there are, and will continue to be, major secondary affects from COVID-19 policy
decisions.

12. We believe it is time to trust Ohioans. They have respectfully followed the guidelines and NOW is the time to responsibly open all businesses.

Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans
RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES EFFECTIVE ON OR BEFORE MAY 1ST, 2020

All businesses/organizations are strongly recommended to follow the Center for Disease
Control (CDC) guidelines and are advised to follow appropriate social distancing and
other COVID-19 related precautionary guidelines. Local authorities are advised to assist
in managing clarity regarding uncertainty. See below for link to CDC guidelines.
Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans

CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS:
1. The Governor will assign Strategic Guidelines for Implementation to local governing bodies including
County Commissioners and County Health Boards.
2. Best practices emerging in the state can be monitored and shared via the Governor’s task force.
3. Intent is to provide Ohioans more personal control over their local epidemic prevention actions. This
will:

a. Increase public involvement in community epidemic preventative actions.
b. Generate personal initiative and ownership in generating effective prevention.
c. Create a sense of hope and proactive behavior in our communities.

OTHER RECOMMENDED COVID-19 RELATED PRECAUTIONARY GUIDELINES:
1. If anyone falls within the “more susceptible” profile they are STRONGLY encouraged to stay at
home.

2. Anyone with a fever can be refused entry and should be advised to seek medical advice immediately.

3. Social distancing should be practiced.

4. All businesses/organizations are encouraged to implement on-going sanitization and cleansing.
Businesses/organizations are advised to work with local authorities if guidance is needed.

5. If you feel sick stay home. If your children are sick, keep them at home.

6. If you are an older person or have a serious underlying health condition, stay home and stay away
from other people.

7. If someone in your household has tested positive keep the entire household at home.

8. Work or study from home whenever possible.

9. Always practice good hygiene – wash your hands, avoid touching your face, sneeze or cough into a
tissue or the inside of your elbow.

Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans

**your signature**

2,520 signatures

Share this with your friends:

   


OPEN OHIO RESPONSIBLY FRAMEWORK

A DATA DRIVEN, APPLIED SCIENCE APPROACH FOR OPENING OHIO FOR ALL OHIOANS
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:

1. Based on current data, scientific application and actual results, we believe a responsible opening of all
businesses can, and should, begin on or before May 1st, 2020.

2. We respect past concerns regarding not overwhelming our hospitals, health systems, front line healthcare workers and first responders as well as ensuring there is an adequate supply of Personal Protective Equipment for them. In Ohio, we believe we are now past that stage of concern.

3. We respect and greatly appreciate all the healthcare workers and first responders’ efforts during this challenging time as well as all the businesses/organizations that have continued to operate through the Shelter in Place Executive Order.

4. We believe the COVID-19 virus is a real threat and especially problematic for the more vulnerable, the elderly and immuno-compromised people. We should continue our measures to protect this population as well as those who are infected with COVID-19.

5. We believe an overwhelming number of Ohioans are responsible citizens and care for each other.

6. We believe all businesses in Ohio are essential.

7. We respect individuals, business owners and employees’ rights to choose how to protect themselves and their loved ones.

8. Many businesses have already modified their operating protocols to safely function in this current
environment. Businesses/organizations recognize if they do not make it safe for their employees and customers, they will not come back.

9. We respect the right for businesses to not open until they are prepared to do so safely.

10. Many people will choose to continue to shelter in p lace. We respect their choices and right to make those decisions.

11. We believe there are, and will continue to be, major secondary affects from COVID-19 policy
decisions.

12. We believe it is time to trust Ohioans. They have respectfully followed the guidelines and NOW is the time to responsibly open all businesses.

Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans
RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES EFFECTIVE ON OR BEFORE MAY 1ST, 2020

 

All businesses/organizations are strongly recommended to follow the Center for Disease
Control (CDC) guidelines and are advised to follow appropriate social distancing and
other COVID-19 related precautionary guidelines. Local authorities are advised to assist
in managing clarity regarding uncertainty. See below for link to CDC guidelines.
Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans

CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS:
1. The Governor will assign Strategic Guidelines for Implementation to local governing bodies including
County Commissioners and County Health Boards.
2. Best practices emerging in the state can be monitored and shared via the Governor’s task force.
3. Intent is to provide Ohioans more personal control over their local epidemic prevention actions. This
will:

a. Increase public involvement in community epidemic preventative actions.
b. Generate personal initiative and ownership in generating effective prevention.
c. Create a sense of hope and proactive behavior in our communities.

OTHER RECOMMENDED COVID-19 RELATED PRECAUTIONARY GUIDELINES:
1. If anyone falls within the “more susceptible” profile they are STRONGLY encouraged to stay at
home.

2. Anyone with a fever can be refused entry and should be advised to seek medical advice immediately.

3. Social distancing should be practiced.

4. All businesses/organizations are encouraged to implement on-going sanitization and cleansing.
Businesses/organizations are advised to work with local authorities if guidance is needed.

5. If you feel sick stay home. If your children are sick, keep them at home.

6. If you are an older person or have a serious underlying health condition, stay home and stay away
from other people.

7. If someone in your household has tested positive keep the entire household at home.

8. Work or study from home whenever possible.

9. Always practice good hygiene – wash your hands, avoid touching your face, sneeze or cough into a
tissue or the inside of your elbow.

Open Ohio Responsibly Framework – A Data Driven, Applied Science Approach for Opening Ohio for ALL Ohioans

Signature & Affirmation Section:
We do hereby agree to the above noted Guiding Principles, Recommended Guidelines, Concept of Operations and Other Recommended COVID-19 Related Precautionary Guidelines. I affirm my support of these urgent measures hereto. We implore Governor DeWine to incorporate this framework into the Open Ohio Plan.

Paul Zeltwanger

Ohio State Representative – District 54
Signing as State Representative Only
Not as Chairman of the Ohio House 2020 Economic Recovery Task Force
(Members noted below have confirmed their support of this Open Ohio Responsibly Framework)

Here is the list of Members that have signed on.

  1. State Representative Paul Zeltwanger—4/26/2020
  2. State Representative Tom Brinkman – 4/26/2020
  3. State Representative Nino Vitale – 4/26/2020
  4. State Representative Adam Holmes—4/26/2020
  5. State Representative Dick Stein—4/26/2020
  6. State Representative Candice Keller—4/26/2020
  7. State Representative Reggie Stoltzfus—4/26/2020
  8. State Representative Derek Merrin—4/26/2020
  9. State Representative J. Todd Smith—4/262020
  10. State Representative Kris Jordan—4/26/2020
  11. State Representative John Becker—4/26/2020
  12. State Representative Jena Powell—4/26/2020
  13. State Representative Jon Cross—4/26/2020
  14. State Representative George Lang—4/26/2020
  15. State Representative Darrel Kick—4/26/2020
  16. State Representative Don Jones—4/26/2020
  17. State Representative Riordan McClain—4/26/2020
  18. State Representative Brett Hillyer—4/26/2020
  19. State Representative Craig Riedel—4/26/2020
  20. State Representative Scott Lipps—4/26/2020
  21. State Representative Phil Plummer—4/26/2020
  22. State Representative Rick Parales—4/26/2020
  23. State Representative Scott Wiggam—4/26/2020
  24. State Representative Diane Grendell—4/27/2020
  25. State Representative Bill Reineke—4/27/2020
  26. State Representative Jason Stephens—4/27/2020
  27. State Representative Jim Hoops—4/27/2020
  28. State Representative Steve Hambley—4/27/2020

Jena Powell

COVID-19 FAQ: Unemployment, H.B. 197, Ohio 2020 Economic Recovery Task Force, CARES Act, stimulus checks, and PPP/EIDL Loans, Community Conversations

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Due to COVID-19 and a mass number of emails and phone calls coming in to our state office, we are doing everything we can to get back to you as quickly as possible. We are here to serve you.

Here are some frequently asked questions that will hopefully address at least part of your concerns:

1)      Unemployment:

  1. If you are having trouble with a PIN number, call 1-866-962-4064.
  2. If you have received a confirmation number but no payment yet, call your processing center (found by your social security number at this link: http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/claims-processing-center-locations.stm).
  3. If you have not received a confirmation number and cannot complete your application, call the unemployment hotline at 1-877-644-6562.
  4. Jobs and Family Services is still working to implement self-employed workers into the unemployment system, and will inform all 1099 filers as soon as this is up and running.
  5. You can also find a helpful list of FAQ at http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/CoronavirusAndUI.stm.
  6. For any other concerns, email us.

2)      HB 197:

  1. Voting by absentee ballot must be postmarked on or before April 27th
  2. Tax filing deadline for state income tax extended to July 15th
  3.  Any additional questions, email us.

3)      Ohio 2020 Economic Recovery Task Force:

  1. If you have specific opinions or information to share, Rep. Powell will read it over and thanks you for sending this!
  2. If you are a small business that is willing to share your story and COVID-19 experience with the Task Force, thank you! We will be emailing you shortly with the form to fill out and additional information.

4)      CARES Act, stimulus checks, and PPP/EIDL Loans:

  1. We will forward your concerns along to Congressman Warren Davidson’s office, since the CARES Act is federal.
  2. Social Security recipients will automatically receive their stimulus check.
  3.  Any additional questions regarding assistance available to small businesses, please email us and we will follow up.

5)      Community Conversations:

  1. For information regarding when Rep. Powell is hosting virtual Community Conversations with special guests, please visit her Facebook page.

Let us know if you have a specific request or follow-up question, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

-Jena Powell, State Rep.|OH-80

State Representative Jena Powell is currently serving her first term as a state representative. She represents the 80th Ohio House District, which encompasses Miami County and a portion of Darke County.

For more information, contact Rep Powell’s office at 614-466-8114 or Rep80@ohiohouse.gov.

 

Jena Powell

State Legislator of the Month – OH Representative Jena Powell

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Rep. Powell is thrilled to be named “State Legislator of the Month” by American Legislative Exchange Council – a nationwide organization dedicated to the principles of limited government, free markets and federalism.

To hear a podcast conversation with American Legislative Exchange Council and FreedomWorks as we discussed conservative policy in light of COVID-19, follow the link here:
https://podcast.alec.org/29

In this podcast we discussed H.B. 197, joint sponsored by Rep. Derek Merrin and Rep. Jena Powell.

More info can be found at ALEC.org:

For the month of April, we are pleased to announce Ohio Representative Jena Powell as the ALEC-FreedomWorks State Legislator of the Month. This award is used to highlight substantive state policy successes by State Legislators – bringing their local story to a national platform. The FreedomWorks network of activists is second to none in supporting the efforts of liberty-loving state legislators.

During COVID-19, we’ve seen leaders step up to support Americans across the country.  But in Ohio, a bill sponsored by Rep. Jena Powell, along with fellow ALEC member Rep. Derek Merrin, stands out. The legislation authorized the Ohio Tax Commissioner to extend the deadlines for personal income tax filing and payment for Ohio taxpayers from April to July 15, 2020. At the time of writing, no other state legislature has done this.

Many states have delayed their tax deadlines, but they’ve done so via executive order or by a government agency’s decision. Ohio is the first to do it legislatively and we applaud their work. The bill also supports rolling back licensing requirements, increasing flexibility for school choice programs and many more pro-liberty responses to the pandemic.

Thank you, Representative Powell, for protecting individual liberty and free enterprise in the states. Congratulations on being the newest ALEC-FreedomWorks State Legislator of the Month.

Save Women’s Sports Act
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Press Conference Speech given on 2.25.20 by Rep. Jena Powell

The Save Women’s Sports Act is about fairness for women in female sports.

With me on stage are several high school female athletes from my district, the bill’s joint sponsor Representative Reggie Stoltzfus and Rachel Citak (legal counsel for CCV).

The Save Women’s Sports Act is a fairness issue for women to be able to achieve their dream in athletics in our state, and is crucial to preserving women’s rights, and the integrity of women’s and girls’ sports.

Across our country, Female athletes are being robbed of athletic opportunities, dreams of competing at the next level, and even potential scholarships to biological males competing in girls’ sports.

Chelsea Mitchell is one of the top female sprinters in Connecticut. But she has been denied the title of state champion four times because the CIAC has allowed male athletes to compete as girls. Last year, she had the unexpected opportunity to compete on a more level playing field after a male athlete was disqualified for a false start. Chelsea went on to win the state championship and the New England Regional Championships in that event.

In Connecticut, nine different girls used to hold the 15 women’s state championship titles. Those 15 titles are now all held by two different biological males.

Girls want the chance to play and win by the rules in the sports that they love. That opportunity is being ripped from them by biological males competing in their sport.

The Save Women’s Sports Act will require schools that are a part of the Ohio High School Athletic Association to designate separate teams for participants of the biological female sex. No school, interscholastic conference, or organization that regulates interscholastic athletics shall permit biological males to participate on an athletic team or in an athletic competition designated only for biological female participants.

We want everyone in the state of Ohio to be able to compete on an even playing field. The beauty of this bill is that we are including everyone in sports, and upholding the integrity of women’s sports.

The reason we have women’s sports divisions is because biological males have physical and biological advantages over girls. Biological males possess many physiological advantages over females, including greater lung capacity, larger hearts, higher red blood cell counts, stronger tendons and ligaments, greater muscle strength, and increased bone density.

Because of this, Title IX was a federal law enacted precisely for the purpose of ensuring equal opportunity for women and girls to compete in interscholastic sports.

Discriminatory policies violate Title IX and deny girls educational and athletic opportunities. Allowing biological males to compete against biological females is a discriminatory policy that turns back the clock over half-a-century on advances we have made for women.

I am passionate about this issue because we cannot allow girls’ dreams of being a gold medal athlete be crushed by biological males stealing their opportunities.

The Save Women’s Sports Act is a fairness issue for women. This bill ensures that every little girl who works hard to make it on a podium is not robbed of her chance by a biological male competing against her in a female sport. We want every little girl to achieve her athletic dream here in the state of Ohio. The Saves women sports act ensures that happens.

State Representative Jena Powell is currently serving her first term as a state representative. She represents the 80th Ohio House District, which encompasses Miami County and a portion of Darke County. For more information, contact Rep Powell’s office at 614-466-8114 or Rep80@ohiohouse.gov.