Ohio Moves to Protect Families as SNAP Funding Uncertain During Shutdown

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Governor Mike DeWine is directing emergency funds to help Ohioans who may lose access to food assistance amid the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Through an executive order signed Thursday, DeWine authorized the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) to distribute $7 million to regional food banks and up to $18 million in emergency relief benefits for more than 63,000 low-income families. Those families, enrolled in Ohio Works First, will see their monthly benefits doubled in November and receive additional weekly payments until federal funding resumes.

The move follows rulings from two federal judges ordering the Trump administration to continue Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments using contingency funds. The USDA had warned that benefits for November could lapse without new appropriations, threatening aid for 1.4 million Ohioans who depend on SNAP each month.

“While we will always do everything we can to support Ohioans who need it most, this is not a viable, long-term solution,” DeWine said. “SNAP is a federal program. The best solution remains the simplest one — reopen the federal government.”

ODJFS expects funds for food banks to be distributed immediately, with emergency benefits reaching families by November 7.