Thursday, June 18, 2009
COLUMBUS (AP) — A newspaper reports that Gov. Ted Strickland proposes about $2 billion in social service cuts to help address a $3.2 billion budget shortfall.
The Columbus Dispatch reports today that Strickland approached Democrats who control the Ohio House with the proposal. The newspaper cites unnamed sources saying the cuts would come from Medicaid services, in-home care for the elderly and abuse-protection services for children and adults.
Other casualties would include a planned expansion of a children’s health-insurance program.
Strickland spokeswoman Amanda Wurst would not discuss details, saying no decisions have been made.
Strickland and legislative leaders have said they won’t raise taxes to fill the gap. Lawmakers are working to complete the two-year budget by July 1.