Senate Bill 17 was introduced in January 2021 by Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster). SB 17 makes changes in eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid, work and education requirements for certain Medicaid recipients, requirements for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program electronic benefit transfer cards, and eligibility for and overpayments of unemployment compensation.
Senator Schaffer claims these reforms will “repair our safety net so that it’s strong enough to catch the needy, the folks eligible to receive--and need--public assistance.” Read his testimony HERE
AOF and our partner organizations disagree. SB 17 does not protect the safety net and exposes vulnerable Ohioans to loss of critical, earned support in challenging times. It punishes workers and creates more barriers for children, families, working adults and seniors to get the help they need.
All people need safety and security, especially in the middle of a pandemic and a recession. The General Assembly should instead create a benefit-bridge so workers and families with low-incomes can transition from supports into stability.
AOF will be keeping a close eye on this bill and speaking to policymakers about it’s implications. Stay tuned for additional updates on the progress of this bill through the legislative process. As of February 5, SB 17 has received a first hearing in Senate Government Oversight and Reform Committee.