Ohio Governor, John Kasich, Named National MS Society Governor of the Year
February 27, 2014

Ohio Governor John Kasich is the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s 2013 Governor of the Year.

In 2013, Governor Kasich worked tirelessly to improve the lives of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their families. Through political and procedural obstacles, he persevered to expand Medicaid in Ohio, ensuring that at least 275,000 more vulnerable residents—many of whom are living with disabilities—will receive comprehensive, affordable health coverage.

“Governor Kasich has done important things for people with disabilities and their families, including those affected by MS,” says Cyndi Zagieboylo, National MS Society President and CEO. “His commitment to helping people with disabilities live their best lives is appreciated and the Society is pleased to honor him.”

Additionally, Governor Kasich supports consumer choice and care and, as such, directed an extra $31 million to be spent on home- and community-based care. Under Governor Kasich’s leadership, Ohio is also positioned to receive more than $169 million to implement the Balancing Incentive Program, which increases access to long-term services and assistance for aging and disabled residents.

Governor Kasich also supported the National MS Society and other disability advocates’ legislative solution to ensure that people can access needed multi-function wheelchairs.

Bestowing its highest honor for elected officials, the National MS Society will present Governor Kasich with the Governor of the Year award during its annual Public Policy Conference, running from March 10 to 12, 2014. The event brings more than 300 MS activists from across the country to DC to educate elected officials about the needs of people affected by MS.

Kasich, 61, was sworn in as Ohio’s 69th governor on January 10, 2011 after a long career in the House of Representatives. Since then, he has dedicated himself to bringing Ohioans together to make the Buckeye State stronger and more prosperous for all.