Ohio Lawmakers Push for State Funds to Support Food Programs Amid Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown extends into its second month, Ohio lawmakers are advocating for the use of state rainy day funds to support vital food assistance programs. With the shutdown having begun on October 1, 2023, over one million residents in Ohio are facing uncertainty regarding their access to federal benefits under programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children).

Many families are anxious about the potential loss of food benefits in November. One Ohio resident, highlighting the urgency of the situation, stated, “November benefits may be at risk.” The concern is shared broadly across the state, with individuals like Calhoun emphasizing the impact this issue has on daily lives. “It’s not just me, it’s a lot on the mind of many in Ohio,” she added.

Democratic State Sen. Hearcel Craig from Columbus has raised alarms about the jeopardy faced by essential programs as the shutdown drags on. Meanwhile, Democratic State Rep. Latyna Humphrey has introduced a bill aimed at allowing the state to temporarily fund SNAP and WIC using state resources until federal operations resume. “Let’s be clear, grocery stores won’t stop operating, the bills won’t stop coming, the babies won’t stop needing formulas, and families still have to eat,” Humphrey stated.

The potential fallout from the shutdown is significant. Mike Cochran, of the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, reported that the organization serves approximately 5,000 people daily, translating to an estimated 322,000 individuals who could be affected by the loss of food assistance starting November 1, 2023. This looming crisis highlights the urgency and gravity of the situation, with many families preparing for a difficult month ahead.

Calhoun, who is scheduled to receive her next SNAP deposit at the end of November, urges fellow recipients to stock up on supplies now. “We need them to stop playing politics and get their head in the game,” she said, emphasizing that real people will be left struggling without support.

The bill proposed by State Rep. Humphrey is currently under committee review, suggesting that the state would seek reimbursement from the federal government once operations resume. While lawmakers from both sides of the aisle acknowledge the pressing nature of this issue, the impact of political negotiations on essential services remains a critical concern.

As Ohio lawmakers await responses from House Republican leadership regarding the proposed bill, the state’s residents continue to brace for potential disruptions to their food assistance. This situation illustrates how national policies can directly affect local communities, underscoring the importance of collaboration across political lines to address urgent public needs.