In a survey published by Scioto Analysis this morning, 19 of 32 Ohio economists agreed that Ohio's economy will receive a substantial boost as soon as K-12 schools can be safely opened in person statewide.
In comments, economists who agreed with the statement emphasized that school reopening will make it easier for parents to enter the labor force. Some also noted the impacts on future earnings of children for missing school. Economists who were uncertain or disagreed with the statement said that school openings on their own will not boost the state economy right away and that education has more significant long-term than short-term economic impacts.
In addition, the survey asked economists if Ohio's economy would be substantially stronger today if state and local ‘stay-at-home’ orders had lasted longer in the first half of last year. 25 of 32 economists were uncertain or disagreed with the statement. Economists uncertain of or disagreeing with the statement emphasized the twin problems of lack of federal coordination and individual compliance as barriers to effectiveness of state ‘stay-at-home’ orders.
The Ohio Economic Experts Panel is a panel of over 40 Ohio Economists from over 30 Ohio higher educational institutions conducted by Scioto Analysis. The goal of the Ohio Economic Experts Panel is to promote better policy outcomes by providing policymakers, policy influencers, and the public with the informed opinions of Ohio’s leading economists.
If you would like to suggest a question for a future Ohio Economic Experts Panel, email your ideas to panel@sciotoanalysis.com.