The Ohio Senate Finance Committee convened on May 30, 2025, to discuss critical funding issues affecting Adult Protective Services (APS) in the state. A representative from the Ohio Coalition for Adult Protective Services urged the committee to restore a proposed $2 million annual funding increase that had been included in the House version of the budget but was omitted from the current bill.

The coalition, which includes both public and private sector members, emphasized the importance of this funding for protecting older adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The requested increase would raise the total funding for APS to approximately $11.7 million per year, which is vital for responding to the rising number of reported cases of elder abuse. Last year, Ohio received over 43,000 reports of abuse, a significant increase from the previous year.

The representative highlighted that the funding is essential for various services, including emergency housing and home maintenance, which help keep older adults safe in their homes. The funds would be distributed to counties based on a statutory formula, allowing them to address specific needs as they arise.

Committee members engaged in discussions about the impact of the funding on both emergency and preventative measures. They noted that while APS primarily responds to crises, it also plays a role in connecting older adults with long-term support services.

The meeting underscored the critical need for dedicated funding to ensure that APS can effectively serve vulnerable populations in Ohio. The committee's decision on this funding will significantly influence the state's ability to protect its older residents from increasing threats of exploitation and abuse.