Rep. Humphrey Urges Gov. DeWine to Preserve SNAP Benefits

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Latyna Humphrey (D-Columbus) today sent a letter to Governor Mike DeWine urging him to take action to help prevent the 1.4M Ohioans who could be left without the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments starting November 1st if the federal government shutdown continues past October 31st.

“Other states are already demonstrating that swift, compassionate action is possible. Louisiana, for instance, recently authorized up to $150 million per month from state-level resources—outside of its rainy-day reserve—to ensure continuity of SNAP benefits for children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Ohio has long been a leader in pragmatic problem-solving, and I believe we can meet this challenge with the same determination. We cannot allow another state to move faster than us when it comes to caring for our most vulnerable citizens,” wrote Rep Humphrey.

Rep Humphrey made several suggestions to the governor for actions his administration could make to help ensure SNAP benefits:  

• Utilizing Controlling Board emergency appropriations to redirect existing or surplus state funds;
• Allowing temporary transfers from agency budget reserves, particularly within the Department of Job and Family Services and the Department of Health;
• Exploring public-private partnerships with food banks, faith-based organizations, and community foundations to extend limited state dollars during the emergency period; and
• Issuing a targeted emergency order to activate available administrative flexibility and authorize temporary assistance until federal funding resumes.

Rep. Humphrey has introduced House Bill 502 that would continue to fund SNAP, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families programs, and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children contingent upon a lapse in federal funding. House Bill 502 has not been scheduled for a first hearing as of today. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Rep. Humphrey’s letter to Governor DeWine is attached to this press release.