An Update from State Senator Susan Manchester
February 2026
February was a great month for our office! With committees and Sessions back in full swing, we are working to advance policies that make Ohio the best place to live, work, and raise a family. We heard from constituents both in Columbus and the district, and I am thankful for every opportunity we had to connect, listen, and learn!
Senator Manchester with constituents from the Ohio Farm Bureau
It has been great to return to the regular rhythm of weekly committee hearings and Senate sessions in Columbus. This month I was glad to welcome many constituents to the Statehouse!
 
I met with the Ohio Soybean Association during their annual Legislative Day. Our farmers are the backbone of Ohio, and I always value their perspective on how the legislature can continue to support agricultural operations across the state. The Ohio Farm Bureau also hosted its annual Ag Day at the Statehouse, where I provided an update on the impact of Senate Bill 100, which created Farm Bureau Health Plans. As of early February, the program has received 572 applications, demonstrating strong interest in expanding affordable health coverage options for Ohio’s farm families.
Senator Manchester with folks from the Ohio Soybean Association
Additionally, I met with a group of ten pharmacy students from the district to discuss pending pharmacy-related legislation. It is always encouraging to see students engaged and advocating on issues that directly affect their future. Hearing from them is critical as we work to ensure Ohio remains a place where graduates choose to build their careers.
Senator Manchester with pharmacy students from the district on their legislative day
I also had the opportunity to participate in America 250-Ohio’s History Bee at the Statehouse, where students from across the state showcased their knowledge of Ohio history. I was especially proud to see Eli Dirksen from Versailles High School participate!
Senator Manchester asking questions to participants in the America 250 History Bee,  Senator Manchester with Eli Dirksen from Versailles High School
We were also excited to welcome several individuals to job shadow in our office this month: Dustin Vasko from Anna High School and Gavin Hileary from Wapakoneta High School. Watching students learn more about the legislative process and see the state government in action is always a highlight!
Senator Manchester with job shadower Gavin Hileary from Wapakoneta High School
Senator Manchester visiting Ohio Hi Point Career Tech Center
In the district, we had the chance to meet with local hospital leaders to talk about rural health transformation funding and the ongoing strength of independent hospitals- so important to the communities across the 12th Senate District. We also toured new hospital facilities and a local career center, which was a great opportunity to see firsthand the programs helping prepare our students and support our local workforce. I participated in a roundtable with Darke County officials to discuss property taxes, labor and workforce, energy, and personal property rights, and I met with community leaders to hear directly about the priorities and concerns that matter most to them. These conversations and visits remind me why staying connected and accessible is so important- it ensures the work I do in Columbus is grounded in the real needs of the people I serve.

If you ever need help navigating a state agency, want to schedule a visit, or would like to invite us to an event, please reach out to Kennedie at Kennedie.Goubeaux@ohiosenate.gov. We love the opportunity to connect and learn more about the incredible work happening across our district!
 
(Top to bottom) Senator Manchester visiting Mary Rutan’s new Indian Lake Health Center, Senator Manchester with other local elected officials and Versailles FFA students, Senator Manchester participating in a roundtable discussion
It is an honor to serve the 12th Senate District! You can contact us anytime at (614) 466-7584 or manchester@ohiosenate.gov. And stay in touch with us on these social media platforms: