Associated Press

Officials are considering whether Ohioans should be granted limited driving privileges after their license has been suspended for something not related to driving, such as not paying child support.

 The suspension procedures are being studied by a working group including agencies such as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and insurance company representatives. The Columbus Dispatch has reviewed the group's recommendations and reports they include allowing deadbeat parents to drive to work or to job interviews.

TOLEDO, Ohio (AP) - Solar power is being used by an increasing number of northwest Ohio companies wanting to save money on energy costs.

The Blade reports that companies in the region say potential cost savings and financing deals that helped them afford the projects prompted their solar investments.

AKRON, Ohio (AP) - A nationwide shortage of truck drivers has specialty schools in Ohio working to help trucking companies fill that need with newly-trained drivers.

The Akron Beacon Journal reports trucking organizations' estimates on the need for drivers over the next couple of years range from 100,000 to 500,000. Industry officials say the aging of the current driver population and increased trucking regulations are among the reasons for the tight market.

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) - One Ohio city has hit record marks for heat, cool weather and rainfall all within three days of extremes.

The National Weather Service says Dayton on Monday reached a high temperature on Monday of just 62 degrees, tying the record for the chilliest maximum temperature ever recorded on Sept. 5.

Two days earlier, Dayton had sweltered in 97-degree heat.  Saturday's high temperature tied the record for Sept. 3 that had been set in 1913.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - State industry and animal welfare advocates say new rules on the handling of Ohio farm animals that take effect later this month will make the state a leader in setting standards for livestock care.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture is midway through holding meetings around the state to introduce the new requirements. They cover the proper feeding, restraint, housing and health care for a full range of animals including poultry, cattle, pigs, horses and alpacas.