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WKSU, our public radio partners in Ohio and across the region and NPR are all continuing to work on stories on the latest developments with the coronavirus and COVID-19 so that we can keep you informed.

Portman Calls for More Coronavirus Testing Kits

A photo of Sen. Rob Portman.
U.S. SENATE
Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) says additional testing kits are needed to help definitively identify if a person has COVID-19.

Senator Rob Portman said states need more testing kits for the coronavirus. He expects lawmakers to approve federal funding upwards of seven billion dollars. He said lawmakers need to band together to prevent the virus from spreading further in America.

“We know that in certain communities this has spread quickly, particularly overseas. So we have to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. And that means doing the right things to prepare for this.”

There are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ohio, but Portman said the testing kits would help make sure of it. Portman expects lawmakers to vote within the next week on funding.