The Ohio Healthy Homes Network named state Rep. Lauren McNally, D-Youngstown, as its legislator of the year for her advocacy in the fight against lead poisoning.

McNally said she was honored to receive the award.

“Having a home, one that you work so hard for, that is safe is so important to the health and happiness of the people I serve,” she said. “I will continue to advocate for lead abatement training and lead abatement programs so that every home that needs it can be served. I would love to see the end of lead poisoning in our community. I would love to see all of us living healthier and happier lives.”

Mahoning County has a high percentage of homes built before 1980 that could have lead paint, glass, pipes and other traces of lead. In 2024, there were 189 children in the county with confirmed elevated blood lead levels.

OHHN focuses on access to lead-safe housing in the state as well as other health-related housing issues.

McNally is serving her second two-year term in the Ohio House. She isn’t seeking reelection this year and is instead running as the Democratic nominee for Mahoning County commissioner.