Sen. Nikki Merritt Holds GLBC Press Conference on Impacts of Federal Government Shutdown

ATLANTA (October 29, 2025) - This week, Sen. Nikki Merritt (D-Grayson), Chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus (GLBC), held a press conference with fellow caucus members and legislative colleagues to discuss impacts of the government shutdown on the state of Georgia.

"The federal government shutdown continues to force dire consequences on our marginalized communities," said Sen. Merritt. "As Chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, I will continue to advocate for Georgia's minority populations and lobby Congress to act with urgency. Behind every budget line item is a human being impacted by decisions made in Washington. SNAP benefits are set to expire, and Georgia's K-12 meal program hangs in the balance, leaving our most vulnerable citizens hanging in the balance.

I want to thank the members of Georgia's congressional delegation for standing by my side to bring attention to this situation. Georgia Democrats stand ready to act and call on Governor Brian Kemp to call a special session. Until that time comes, however, I want to remind Georgians that the power belongs to the people. Call your members of Congress to push for an end to this government shutdown."

Congressional representatives Hank Johnson (GA-4) and Lucy McBath (GA-6) also attended the event. The federal government has remained shut down since October 1. The United States Department of Agriculture announced last week that no federal SNAP benefits will be issued after October 31, due to the ongoing shutdown.

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Sen. Nikki Merritt represents the 9th Senate District which includes portions of Gwinnett County. She may be reached at (404) 463-2260 or via email at [email protected]

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