Ohio Budget Proposal Targets Affordable Housing Program
Ohio lawmakers are shaking things up with a new budget plan as of April 2025. They want to change the Ohio Housing Trust Fund (OHTF), a program that has helped people find affordable homes for over 30 years. Since 1991, the OHTF has supported folks with housing needs across the state. But now, this proposal could flip things around, especially for Black Americans who depend on it.
What’s the Ohio Housing Trust Fund?
The OHTF started to tackle housing problems. According to the Ohio Department of Development, it uses money from county fees to fund homeless shelters, home fixes, and affordable rentals. Ohio has a big shortage of cheap homes over 264,000 units, says a 2025 report. So, this program has been a lifeline for many.
What’s the Big Change?
The new budget says county fees won’t go to the state fund anymore. Instead, the money will stay local or get redirected. Plus, a $100 million rural housing idea from Governor Mike DeWine got cut. Some leaders think this saves money, but others, like housing expert Amy Riegel, say it hurts a program that works well.
How This Hits Black Communities
Black Americans in Ohio often face tough housing challenges. Old rules like redlining made it harder to own homes, so many rent. Affordable housing costs $20.81 an hour to afford, but wage gaps mean Black workers earn less. If the OHTF shrinks, cities like Dayton and Columbus, with big Black populations, could see more families struggle.
Why It Matters
Ohio’s housing crisis is real fewer cheap rentals than in big cities like New York. Advocates are fighting to keep the OHTF strong. For Black Ohioans, this isn’t just about money it’s about having a stable place to live. Lawmakers need to listen as they finalize this budget by July 1, 2025. Housing is a big deal for everyone’s future!
