Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine says the state plans to unveil a new coronavirus vaccination incentive program.
DeWine said the announcement will come within the next week with a goal of increasing vaccinations. The Republican governor didn't provide details about the new program but hinted it could involve smaller amounts of money than the recently-expired Vax-a-Million sweepstakes that gave $1 million to five people and five full college scholarships to younger Ohioans.
A study from Boston University said the Vax-a-Million sweepstakes did not encourage many people to get vaccinated. The DeWine administration credits the sweepstakes for a short-term vaccination increase that came at the same time Ohio expanded vaccine eligibility.
DeWine said Tuesday he's worried about the continued spread of the so-called delta variant. He says he's also worried about parts of the state with continued low vaccination rates. The governor says anyone not vaccinated is "very vulnerable" because of the delta variant.