The Ohio Senate Finance Committee convened on June 6, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the state's proposed operating budget, with significant testimony focusing on healthcare and support for individuals with disabilities.

Bridal Debussy, director of external affairs for Equitas Health, expressed deep concerns regarding proposed language in the budget that could trigger reductions in the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP). Debussy highlighted that approximately 3.2 million Ohioans, including 1.3 million children, rely on Medicaid coverage. The proposed changes could lead to coverage losses for around 700,000 residents, prompting a strong recommendation for the removal of this trigger language from the budget.

Debussy also addressed multiple amendments proposed by the Ohio House that could negatively impact the LGBTQ+ community. These include restrictions on access to essential services and resources, such as period products in government buildings and funding for shelters supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Debussy urged the Senate to eliminate these provisions, emphasizing their focus on social issues rather than fiscal responsibility.

Additionally, Debussy raised alarms about a new requirement for the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles to list sex assigned at birth on state IDs, which could impose significant administrative costs on taxpayers. The testimony concluded with gratitude for the removal of previous harmful language regarding drug pricing programs and a call for the inclusion of protections against non-consensual imagery.

Following Debussy, Caitlin Skufka, state director for Best Buddies International, advocated for continued funding of $100,000 per year for the organization, which supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Skufka emphasized the importance of this funding for maintaining programs that foster social skills and leadership development among youth. Alex Rogers, a member of Best Buddies, shared her personal experiences and the transformative impact of the program on her life.

The committee's discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Ohio and the importance of legislative support to ensure access to essential services and protections. As the Senate continues to deliberate on the budget, the testimonies underscored the need for careful consideration of the proposed amendments and their potential consequences for Ohioans.