State Reps. Daniel Troy, D-Willowick, and Josh Williams, R-Sylvania Township, introduced House Bill 178 this week, which would require the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to provide a benefit allotment to qualifying senior citizens participating in the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assis tance Program. “Since the termination of the public health emergency, over 70,000 older Ohioan households have seen their monthly benefits reduced to $23, after receiving significantly more during the emergency,” Troy said. “This legislation would increase the minimum benefit to $50 per month with a state-funded supplement.” Ohioans aged 60 and older who currently receive a monthly SNAP benefit allotment of less than $50 would be eligible for the supplemental benefit. Ohio Association of Foodbanks Executive Director Joree Novotny noted that the number of seniors seeking assistance from the hunger relief network has increased by 133 percent from 2014 to 2024, including a 70 percent rise in the last five years. “Older Ohioans represent one in five individuals served by food banks and their local partners,” she stated. “Local food banks serve as safety nets for federal programs, and we can’t continue to provide this level of response without significant support. By investing in an increased minimum monthly SNAP benefit, the state can assist low-income seniors living on fixed incomes who are struggling with the rising costs of housing, medication and food. “We applaud the sponsors for introducing this legislation — the bipartisan support is a strong example of Ohio’s commitment to fighting hunger.” The implementation of the policy has an estimated cost between $35 million and $40 million over the biennium and would be subject to review and required reauthorization in the next biennial budget, Troy noted. “States across the country have taken matters into their own hands to ensure SNAP benefit adequacy for older adults by exploring ways to supplement this underfunded federal benefit with state resources,” he emphasized. “As Ohio lawmakers, shouldn’t we be doing the same? This legislation represents an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of older Ohioans.” Troy also mentioned that he has submitted the language of HB 178 as an amendment to the biennial Operating Budget Bill (HB 96), which is expected to be adopted at the end of June. House Bill 178 has been assigned to the House Community Revitalization Committee and awaits first hearing. ...read more read less