Republican Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has come up with a very interesting program to incentivize residents of his state to get the vaccine. There will be two raffle-style drawings specifically for those who have gotten at least one version of the vaccine. The first raffle is for people under the age of 18. Up to five people will win an expense-free admission to the college of their choice in the state of Ohio. The next raffle is for adults. Up to five people will win a prize every week, including a prize of up to one million dollars. Mike DeWine has essentially turned proof of vaccination into a free lottery ticket.
DeWine made the incentive announcements during a television address. The Buckeye State Governor also spoke about relaxing virus restrictions to get the state back and up running at normal capacity. As of June 2nd, all health orders in the state will be lifted, with the exception of assisted-care and nursing home facilities. Businesses operating in the state of Ohio, such as Wal-Mart, are still able to make their own requirements. Vaccination sites for kids 12-15 will open immediately, as the Governor’s focus is to give everyone the ability to get vaccinated. Although that goal makes sense in the eyes of many, what may raise some eyebrows is the “raffle” method of incentivizing the vaccine.
There is also the question of funding. DeWine clearly stated that funding for the raffle is coming from virus relief money. Former Ohio congressman Jim Renacci called the raffle plan “crazy and ridiculous.” This money is, of course, part of the print-and-spend that the Biden administration has done. Biden has another bill on the table that will print-and-spend another $4 trillion dollars, placing the United States further into debt. A vaccine raffle seems like an inappropriate way to spend virus relief money that probably shouldn’t be out in the wild anyway.
SOURCES:
Ohio Lottery to Give 5 People $1 Million Each to Encourage Vaccination – The New York Times
Gov. Mike DeWine announces removal of Ohio’s COVID health orders on June 2, plus vaccine incentives – YouTube
Gov. Mike DeWine Coaxes Ohioans into Getting Vaccinated with $1 Million
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine – COVID-19 Statewide Address – YouTube
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announces $1M lottery for vaccinated citizens | Fox News
Ohio announces $5 million lottery for vaccinated residents. Gov. Mike DeWine explains why it’s good policy – CNN Video
Ohio Offers $1 Million Lottery, Full Scholarships To Boost Vaccinations : Coronavirus Updates : NPR
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