(The Center Square) – Mixed messages from the Trump administration continue to confuse lawmakers, advocacy groups, municipalities and schools over a possible federal funding freeze.
Earlier this week, Trump rescinded a memo about an executive order to stop most federal funding for programs, but the administration continues to say on social media the order remains in place.
Some believe that in Ohio, where nearly 40% of the state’s budget is funded by federal sources, impacts could be felt in a wide range of sectors.
“Federal grants play a crucial role in supporting Ohio’s budget and public services, highlighting the inseparable connection between state and federal finances,” said Justin Theal, senior officer with the Pew Charitable Trusts. “In fiscal 2022, Ohio received 41.5% of its total revenue – $39.9 billion – from federal grants, exceeding the national average. These funds were the largest revenue source for the state, surpassing tax collections, which accounted for 38.9% ($37.4 billion) of total revenue. Federal grants help Ohio pay for essential services like health care, education, public safety, and infrastructure.”
After immediate backlash and legal challenges from nonprofits, public health organizations and small business groups, a federal judge temporarily blocked the order and will hear arguments Monday.
Trump said at a news conference Wednesday he rescinded the memo but said nothing about the order. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated on social media the order was still in place, saying it would remain in “full force” and be “rigorously implemented.”
She also said at a Tuesday news conference the freeze would not affect Social Security, Medicare and the SNAP program. Other programs, however, could face a funding stop.
Trump said the media “purposefully” sowed the confusion around the memo.
“We are merely looking at parts of the big bureaucracy where there has been tremendous waste and fraud and abuse,” Trump said.
He also said the freeze had successfully stopped $50 million from going to Gaza to “buy condoms for Hamas.” Trump said the condoms were being used to make bombs.
In just one area for Ohio, federal funding for the Ohio Department of Children and Youth is $3 billion, making up 64% of the state agency’s budget.
“Ohioans support many of the programs and policies this administration would defund and dismantle,” Policy Matters Ohio Executive Director Hannah Halbert said. “Regardless of party, Ohioans want programs that reduce maternal and infant death, that support reproductive freedom, and that increase economic mobility. Many programs that benefit everyday Ohioans could be caught up in the administration’s sweeping actions. Vague, contradictory, unaccountable directives to build target lists is no way to govern in our democracy.”
Ohio House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, said the funding freeze would impact things like Headstart, Meals on Wheels, school meals, housing and utility bill assistance throughout the state.
“The confusion and chaos you saw this week is just the beginning,” Russo said. “Trump’s billionaire advisors don’t care about the average person and have urged the president to slash trillions from the federal budget with zero regard for the impact it will have on our state resources or critical programs for our communities and families. When Republicans slash federal funding for housing, healthcare, and support for farmers, it’s not just government spending they’re cutting – it’s your ability to afford rent, see a doctor, and buy groceries.”
