LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – With the partial closure of the federal government last night, a local agency dependent on federal funding says it was prepared.
Joe Patton, executive director of the Allen County Department of Job and Family Services, said his office anticipated the possibility of a shutdown. He noted that extended delays could affect the distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits.
“We did a draw last week, so we have enough money probably to carry us through mid-December,” Patton said. “So it shouldn’t really affect any citizens in Allen County in any way through our service or getting them approved.”
On the first day of the shutdown, both political parties pointed fingers. House Speaker Mike Johnson said he is praying “that Democrats come to their senses,” while Vice President J.D. Vance said Republicans want to resolve health care issues but will not negotiate until the government reopens.
The shutdown began early Wednesday after the U.S. Senate failed to pass a continuing resolution already approved by the House. Democrats have pushed to ensure health care protections remain intact.
