What’s Next for Ohio: Priorities for Children, Families, and the Workforce
- 24 hours ago
- 2 min read
Following Ohio’s May 5 primary election, we congratulate the candidates who will advance to the general election for Governor this November – Amy Acton and Vivek Ramaswamy. As Ohio looks ahead, the choices made by the next Governor—and in the upcoming biennial budget—will shape the future for young children, families, and our state’s economy.
At Groundwork Ohio, we remain focused on what matters most: ensuring every child has a strong start and every family has the support they need to succeed. The path forward is clear, and the opportunity is urgent.
Here’s what we’re expecting from Ohio’s next Governor and state leaders:
Child Care and Preschool are Essential to Ohio’s Workforce and Economy Expand access to affordable, safe child care and preschool.
“[The single biggest challenge my family faces right now is] Feeling like if I work too much I will lose my benefits including daycare but not working enough I'm in the negative after every payday.” – Parent from Hamilton County
Protect Health Coverage for Ohio’s Moms and Babies Medicaid keeps families healthy, working, and financially stable. “The biggest challenge my family faces is navigating systems that aren't built for my child's needs. Between therapies, school expectations, and medical issues, it often feels like I have to constantly advocate just to make sure my child is supported. Policies don't always account for real-life situations, which adds extra stress on top of everything else. I just want my kids to be understood and given the support they need, without it feeling like a constant battle.” – Parent from Lorain County
Make Work Pay for Ohio Families When families can afford the basics, they can contribute to Ohio’s economy.
“On average our necessities cost $5,000 in a month. . . we have no room for a medical emergency, or even our tires needing replaced outside of their scheduled life. This stress and worry eats at me every day, and takes emotional bandwidth I know my children deserve.” – Parent from Stark County
Healthy Moms and Babies Are the Foundation of a Strong Ohio
We know what works—and we must continue to strengthen, expand, and improve it.
“…at my six-week checkup…I kinda wasn’t taken seriously or listened to and I was never checked up on again after that.” – Parent from Montgomery County
The Bottom Line
Early childhood investments are not “nice to have”—they are essential to Ohio’s economic future. By supporting child care, strengthening family incomes, improving maternal and infant health, and protecting health coverage, Ohio can grow its workforce, reduce long-term costs, and give every child a strong start.
As we head toward the November general election, we will continue to engage candidates and policymakers on these priorities—and we invite you to stay involved, informed, and ready to raise your voice for Ohio’s youngest children.