DOGE funding delays result in Ohio History Connection layoffs

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Federal funding delays have resulted in a nonprofit organization focused on preserving Ohio’s history losing about one-third of its staff.

According to the Ohio History Connection, 12 members of its staff working in the State Historic Preservation Office were laid off due to a federal funding delay.

In a statement, the organization said approximately 60% of its total funding comes from the federal Historic Preservation Fund, administered by the National Park Service. The park service has been one of the department’s hardest hit by cuts via the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Estimates state the park service could lose as much as 30% of its total funding, just more than $5 billion.

The Ohio History Connection is mandated by the federal government to administer the National Register of Historic Places, the Federal Historic Tax Credit program, and reviews under the National Historic Preservation Act.

The layoffs took effect last Friday.

“Each of the individuals impacted has contributed meaningfully to our work, and their dedication and professionalism will be deeply missed,” the history connection’s statement reads. “…with the majority of our State Historic Preservation Office budget allocated to personnel, we were unable to sustain our current staffing levels without this federal support.”

The organization is responsible for more than 50 historic sites in 40 counties across Ohio.

“We know the coming months will be challenging, and that extended processing times may occur as we adjust to these changes,” the connection’s statement reads. “Nonetheless, we remain committed to our mission and to serving the people and communities of Ohio through the preservation of our shared heritage.”