Rep. Humphrey Hosts Press Conference on the Continuing Government Shutdown and Impact on Ohioans

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Latyna Humphrey (D-Columbus), joined by elected officials and community partners held a press conference Thursday morning at the Ohio Statehouse to address the far-reaching effects of the ongoing federal government shutdown on Ohio families. The discussion focused on the critical impacts to SNAP, WIC, and TANF programs, which millions of Ohioans depend on for food and financial stability.

“Today, I convened community partners and elected officials to address the urgent challenges our constituents are facing during the ongoing government shutdown. It is imperative that we use every resource available to support Ohioans in this time of uncertainty. Ensuring that our communities remain informed and empowered is among our highest priorities. Should the shutdown persist, I am fully committed to advancing House Bill 502 and ensuring it reaches the governor’s desk without delay,” said Rep. Humphrey.

“We have a moral and economic imperative to act now before the storm makes landfall. If we force families to go a month or more without access to food before leveraging Ohio’s Rainy Day Fund, it will be too late—and the damage will be irreparable,” said Erica C. Crawley, Franklin County Commissioner.

“This legislation represents problem-solving—and that’s exactly what we need right now to navigate the enormous supply and demand challenges facing Franklin County residents and Ohioans statewide. The nonprofit sector is eager to help, but we can’t do it without support from our state partners,” said Micheal Corey, Executive Director of the Human Service Chamber of Franklin County.

“We are on the precipice of nearly one and a half million Ohioans not knowing how to put food on their tables starting November 1st. It’s critically important that we come together as a state and a community to ensure no one goes hungry,” said Mike Hochron, Senior Vice President of Communications of Mid-Ohio Food Collective.

“When food stops, suffering starts. When the system shuts down, people break down,” said Peaches Calhoun, Columbus Resident and SNAP recipient.

Thursday’s press conference highlighted the shared commitment of state and local leaders, community advocates, and service providers to protect Ohio’s most vulnerable residents from the devastating impacts of the federal shutdown. It can be viewed here. 

Rep. Humphrey and her partners reaffirmed their dedication to pursuing both legislative and community-based solutions to safeguard access to essential nutrition and family assistance programs.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture from Thursday’s press conference is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.