Resources

Client Alerts, News Articles, Blog Posts, & Multimedia

Everything you need to know about BMD and the industry.

Relief for Ohio Under the Federal American Rescue Plan Act

Client Alert
April 1, 2021

On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act (the “Act”) — a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package — a significant portion of which will be directed to the State of Ohio to support economic recovery, as outlined below.

Generally, the Act seeks to provide state and local governments with the resources needed to stabilize their economies following the shutdowns and COVID-19-related deficits incurred in 2020. As such, the Act directs these authorities to fund businesses, programs, and support infrastructure projects and related economic development.

Specifically, a total of $11.2 billion has been allocated to Ohio from the Act, half of which will go directly to the state government with the balance to be divided among Ohio’s municipalities.

The five (5) largest benefactors of the funds include the following counties:

  • Franklin County: $255,380,000
  • Cuyahoga County: $239,530,000
  • Hamilton County: $158,540,000
  • Summit County: $104,930,000
  • Montgomery County: $103,120,000

The stimuli do not, however, come without caveats as to collection requirements and spending boundaries.

Each state or territory intending to collect their share of the funds is required to certify to the U.S. Treasury that it will use any payment in compliance with the use of fund restrictions, discussed below, before any distribution is made. Once the U.S. Treasury receives this certification, the department must make payment to the certifying entity within 60 days.

Counties, metropolitan cities and states as agents for non-entitlement units of local government will not, however, be required to complete certifications, and will instead receive funds in tranches, with the first tranche to be paid within 60 days of the American Rescue Plan becoming law, and the second tranche to be paid at least 12 months after the date on which the county, metropolitan city or state as an agent for non-entitlement unit of local government received its first payment.

The Act leaves broad authority to the state and local governments as to how the money may be directed with the main caveat requiring the ultimate support of COVID-19 economic recovery (e.g., vaccine distribution and other public health efforts, support for low-income citizens, small business relief, and aid to public education). Notably, there is a deadline to use the funds by each applicable jurisdiction — December 31, 2024.

For any questions on the American Rescue Plan Act, or for more information on allocations across the State of Ohio, please contact BMD Government Affairs Law Member Victoria Ferrise at 330.374.5184 or vlferrise@bmdllc.com.

Government LawVictoria FerriseMonica AndressAmerican Rescue PlanCOVID-19 Relief
Client Alert

Ohio House Bill 537: Proposed Regulations for Midwives and Birthing Centers

January 28, 2026House Bill 537, introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives, proposes a comprehensive regulatory framework for certified nurse-midwives, certified midwives, licensed midwives, and traditional midwives. The legislation would clarify scope of practice, establish licensure standards, and impose new requirements for freestanding birthing centers and home births. Healthcare providers and facilities should be aware of the proposed changes and their potential operational impact.Client Alert

Proposed Health Information Privacy Reform Act Expands Protections Beyond HIPAA

January 26, 2026The Health Information Privacy Reform Act (HIPRA) seeks to extend privacy protections to health data not covered under HIPAA, including data collected by apps and wearables. HIPRA introduces broader definitions of protected health information, strengthens privacy and security requirements, establishes patient notification rights, and sets national de-identification standards. Companies processing health data should monitor developments to ensure compliance.Client Alert

Medicare Updates on Skin Substitutes: LCDs Withdrawn, Payment Changes Take Effect

January 23, 2026Medicare’s planned Final Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) for skin substitutes were withdrawn in late December 2025, meaning previous coverage rules remain in effect. The 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule introduces a single payment rate of approximately $127.14 for these products. Providers should review implications for diabetic foot and venous leg ulcer treatments.Client Alert

Understanding the Seven Core Elements of an Effective Healthcare Compliance Program

January 22, 2026The Affordable Care Act requires healthcare providers participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP to maintain an effective compliance program. Guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of Inspector General outlines seven core elements that form the foundation of these programs, from written policies and compliance oversight to auditing, training, and corrective action. This alert highlights each element and explains how practices can tailor compliance programs to their size and risk profile while meeting federal expectations.Client Alert

Preventing a Board Investigation

January 21, 2026Healthcare professionals in Ohio are subject to licensing board investigations that can lead to disciplinary action. Staying compliant with regulations, documenting carefully, and operating within your professional scope can help prevent issues. If contacted by a board, working with an attorney is critical to protect your license and rights.
Older posts
Newer posts