Ohio Legislature Passes Budget Promoting Life
Ohio Parenting and Pregnancy Program funded at $7.5 million
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Mike Gonidakis
DATE: Wednesday, July 17th, 2019 PHONE: 614-547-0099 ex. 301
COLUMBUS, Ohio–Today, the Ohio legislature passed a historically pro-life biennial operating budget which included $7.5 million for the Ohio Parenting and Pregnancy Program that provides funding for critical support and care for women and babies. This represents a $6.5 million increase from the previous two budget cycles.
“We are incredibly grateful for the pro-life leadership in both the Ohio Senate and House for the unprecedented support for our pro-life mission to help pregnant women,” said Stephanie Ranade Krider, Vice President and Executive Director of Ohio Right to Life. “The significant increase in funding for the Ohio Parenting and Pregnancy Program will save lives and help pregnant women carry to term. The historic funding will enhance Governor DeWine’s laser-focus investment in Ohio’s children and demonstrates the state’s commitment to some of our most vulnerable citzens. These funds will empower organizations to reach more women and promote healthy birth outcomes.”
The program, which was first funded in 2013, allocates discretionary TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) dollars to the work of life-affirming organizations across the state. These organizations use the funds to provide much-needed care for low-income mothers and their children in Ohio by providing prenatal care, counseling, and material resources.
“The Ohio legislature has again shown its commitment to passing pro-life initiatives that not only work to end abortion but also to promote the life and well-being of women and their children, born and unborn. In conjunction with the increased funds for home vistiation for at-risk mothers, wrap around services for school-age children, and for foster care agencies, this budget represents a truly pro-life investment in Ohio’s families and children”.
Ohio Right to Life will continue to advocate on behalf of legislation that supports pregnant women in need.
Founded in 1967, Ohio Right to Life, with more than 45 chapters and local affiliates, is Ohio’s oldest and largest grassroots pro-life organization. Recognized as the flagship of the pro-life movement in Ohio, ORTL works through legislation and education to promote and defend innocent human life from conception to natural death.
###