Governor’s Proposed Budget Continues Strong Support for Ohioans with Disabilities

Moments after taking the oath of office, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed Executive Order 2019-03D, designating Ohio as a Disability Inclusion State and establishing it as a Model Employer of Individuals with Disabilities. Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) strives to ensure that all Ohioans have access to the necessary support, training, and opportunities to thrive within both the workforce and their communities. Governor DeWine's proposed budget reinforces this commitment, ensuring sustained support for services that empower Ohioans with disabilities.

 

OOD’s metrics demonstrate substantial strides in empowering Ohioans with disabilities through improved employment opportunities and are reflected in the results. In Federal Fiscal Year 2024, OOD provided services to over 42,000 Ohioans with disabilities, which was 5,444 more individuals compared to Federal Fiscal Year 2023, a 14.8 percent increase.

 

Our Vocational Rehabilitation staff provide direct services to Ohioans with all types of disabilities through many programs and partnerships that lead to employment. This includes support for individuals with disabilities through the following programs:

• Ohio College2Careers
• Ohio Employment First
• Ohio Transition Support Partnership
• Ohio Vocational Apprentice Program
• OOD Jobs for Recovery

OOD also supports Ohioans with disabilities through a variety of Independent Living programs. These include the Independent Living Older Blind program, the Personal Care Assistance program, Community Centers for the Deaf, Sight Centers, and Centers for Independent Living. For individuals who are unable to work due to a disability, OOD assists through its Division of Disability Determination, which is fully funded by the Social Security Administration.

 

The Accessible Ohio (AO) program partners with businesses and communities to enhance accessibility statewide. Since its inception in July 2023, AO has established over 180 partnerships and conducted training for over 3,200 attendees. Plus, OOD’s mobile services unit brings services directly to rural and underserved areas, enhancing access to services and employment opportunities.

 

Our success depends on building strong partnerships with state and local agencies, Vocational Rehabilitation providers, and employers who partner with us to hire Ohioans with disabilities. We are grateful for the ongoing support from the General Assembly, the OOD Council, providers, stakeholders, staff, and all Ohioans with disabilities.

 

Governor DeWine's budget emphasizes ongoing investment in services that empower individuals to find meaningful employment, contribute to their communities, and gain independence. The proposed budget represents a state investment of $43.9 million in General Revenue Funds in each year of the biennium. With a generous federal match and innovative programs, OOD is uniquely positioned to do its part in strengthening Ohio’s economy.