Ohio Governor John Kasich visited Ashland Friday for a news conference.

He came to discuss his plan to extend Medicaid coverage to the working poor and those looking for work.

The governor was joined by numerous mental health professionals, and flanked by several area sheriffs, as he said extending Medicaid would provide federal money for treating the mental health and drug addiction problems that lead people to crime.

Kasich recalled a recent conversation he had with Ohio Department of Mental Health Director Tracy Plouck, as she awaited his decision.

He told her he did intend to extend Medicaid, prompting her to sit down outside of his office and cry. 

Plouck said this is the right thing to do for families and communities. 

The governor's plan is also applauded by Ashland County Mental Health and Recovery Services Director Steve Stone, because he says it will free up resources for other mental health services.

Extending Medicaid is included in Governor Kasich's two-year budget proposal to the Ohio Legislature.