Ohio Lawmakers Push to Use State Funds for Food Assistance Amid Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown enters its second month, Ohio lawmakers are urging the state to utilize its rainy day funds to support critical food assistance programs, including SNAP and WIC. The shutdown, which commenced on October 1, 2023, poses a significant threat to the federal food benefits relied upon by over one million residents in Ohio.

Many residents are expressing concern about the impending loss of benefits. One individual, who identified herself as Calhoun, highlighted the anxiety felt by families as the possibility of reduced food assistance looms. “November benefits may be at risk,” she stated, pointing out that the shutdown is already affecting the mental well-being of many Ohioans. She emphasized that the issue is not confined to political divisions, remarking, “This isn’t a red or blue issue, this is a refrigerator issue.”

The Mid-Ohio Food Collective’s Mike Cochran noted the real-world impact of the shutdown on the community, explaining, “We serve 5,000 people a day. We are talking about 322,000 who could be impacted on November 1.” As the deadline approaches, the urgency for action becomes increasingly clear.

Democratic State Senator Hearcel Craig from Columbus has raised alarms about the potential jeopardy facing essential programs as the shutdown continues. In response to this pressing situation, Democratic State Representative Latyna Humphrey has introduced a bill that would allow Ohio to temporarily fund federal food programs like SNAP and WIC using state rainy day funds until the federal government resumes operations. “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.

Her proposed legislation is currently under consideration in committee, with the intention that the state would be reimbursed once federal operations are restored. Calhoun, who is scheduled to receive her next SNAP deposit at the end of next month, urges other recipients to stock up on supplies in preparation for potential disruptions. “We need them to stop playing politics and get their head in the game,” she urged, emphasizing the immediate consequences for families relying on these benefits.

As the situation unfolds, ABC 6 has reached out to House Republican leadership for a response to Humphrey’s bill and is awaiting their comments. The implications of the federal shutdown extend beyond just food assistance, affecting a wide range of services and support for vulnerable populations across Ohio. Lawmakers and community advocates continue to call for timely solutions to mitigate the impact on those most in need.