The list of state initiatives in dire need of federal funds to address a host of important public health programs is long. Whether it’s related to Medicaid, the environment, transportation or housing, many states are desperate for help managing the ever-increasing needs of their communities.

A major public health threat consistently in need of state funding involves access to the most basic human essential — food. In response, the Biden administration recently announced details of a new bipartisan summer program that would provide $2.5 billion in state funding for healthier food options that will help 21 million low-income children when school isn’t in session.

The Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer, or Summer EBT program, offers each child of an eligible family $40 per month, accessible via an EBT card, which can be used at grocery stores that accept Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program benefits.

In a stunning move, 15 governors have said they will reject those funds. That’s not a typo: These state leaders will turn down resources that can help alleviate child hunger in their very own communities.

“I don’t believe in welfare,” Gov. Jim Pillen (R-Neb.) told reporters in........

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