Rep. Brent Condemns House Republicans for Blocking Amendment to Protect Food Assistance

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Juanita O. Brent (D–Cleveland) Wednesday sharply criticized House Republicans for voting to table an amendment that would have provided emergency state funding to support Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits if federal dollars were delayed or cut.

“When 22,073 people in my district rely on SNAP just to eat, this isn’t a political issue—it’s a survival issue. Ohio House Republicans had a chance to stand with hungry families, and instead, they turned their backs,” said Rep. Brent. “Ohio has the resources to keep families fed during a crisis. Instead of showing compassion and common sense, Republicans tabled the amendment and told families to fend for themselves. That’s not leadership—that’s neglect.”

The Democratic amendment Rep. Brent supported would have:

• Appropriate up to $100 million from the Controlling Board;
• Created a temporary emergency fund to maintain SNAP assistance during federal lapses;
• Ensured transparency by requiring public reporting on use of funds;
• Included a sunset clause so the measure would expire when federal support resumed; and
• Prioritized families, children, and seniors most at risk of hunger.

Come Saturday, November 1st, families will be forced to choose between buying food or medicine or keeping the heat on because of Ohio Republicans’ failure to respond to this urgent crisis.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Brent volunteering at a food bank is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Rep. Brent’s office.