State Capitol Update for the Week of May 27

May 27, 2026



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Dear Neighbor,

This is my State Capitol update for the week of May 27.

Click the image below to view my video on this week’s events.
 

Here’s a list of today’s topics: 

  • Budget Signed into Law. Click here.
  • National Gun Violence Awareness Day. Click here. 
  • CHESLA Grad Loan Program. Click here. 
  • ICYMI -  Upcoming Household Hazardous Waste Day . Click here.
  • Northwest Corner Events. Click here. 

Budget Signed by Governor

Yesterday, I traveled to Platt High School in Meriden to join Governor Lamont and other legislative leaders for the budget signing.

As I have detailed previously, the budget, which passed with bipartisan support, delivers more than $300 million in relief for Connecticut cities, towns, and schools without raising taxes. It also expands support for public education through increased school funding, universal free school breakfast programs, literacy initiatives, and investments in early childhood education. At the same time, it also provides targeted relief for working families through expanded tax-free shopping on clothing and school supplies.

A lot of hard work was put into crafting this budget, and I am delighted that it included significant investments as well as payments to our debt - all while maintaining our rainy day fund. 

National Gun Violence Awareness Day

June 5 is National Gun Violence Awareness Day. To call attention to gun violence in our country, many advocates will wear orange. Click here to learn more about how you can get involved.

CHESLA Grad Loan Program

The Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA) has officially launched the MyCHESLA Grad Loan, a new state-based graduate loan program designed to preserve access to affordable, fixed-rate financing for Connecticut students pursuing advanced degrees following the elimination of the federal Grad PLUS loan program, effective July 1.

CHESLA’s new graduate loan program supports students enrolled in both graduate and professional degree programs.

Borrowers can choose from repayment terms of 5, 10, or 15 years, along with flexible in-school repayment options, including interest-only payments, full deferment, or immediate principal-and-interest payments. Combined, these options provide borrowers with nine fixed-rate offerings tailored to meet a range of financial needs.

Importantly, all approved borrowers have equal access to the same nine fixed rates, ensuring a transparent, fair, and consistent pricing structure.

Fixed interest rates for the MyCHESLA Grad Loan range from 5.50% to 7.99%, depending on the selected repayment term and in-school repayment option. The program offers a cost-effective, borrower-focused alternative to higher-cost private loans, with every available fixed rate remaining below the current federal Grad PLUS loan rate of 8.94%.

Click here to learn more about CHESLA’s loan programs, financial education resources, and application process.

ICYMI -Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day Scheduled for June 20 in Falls Village

Residents of participating towns are invited to safely dispose of household hazardous waste during an upcoming Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, June 20, starting at 9 a.m. at the Falls Village Public Works Garage.

Accepted materials include items such as old paint, batteries, and other household hazardous waste. Event organizers encourage residents to take advantage of the opportunity to properly dispose of materials that could otherwise harm the environment.

Registration is required - please click here or scan the QR code for more information. Residents without internet access may contact their local Town Hall for assistance completing registration.

Northwest Corner Events

ICYMI 

The Congregational Church of Salisbury will present its monthly First Friday Music program on Friday, June 5th at 12:00p.m . at 30 Main Street, Salisbury. The Meeting House will open at 11:30 a.m.

This month’s performance will feature the Salisbury Choir with guests. They will sing a program of Madrigals in period costume. Music of Dowland, Morley, Passereau, Josquin de Prez and others will be performed.

Crescendo will present a special two-day concert series featuring the complete motets of Johann Sebastian Bach on May 30 and 31 at 4:00 p.m.

Performed by the Crescendo Vocal Ensemble alongside guest soloists and instrumentalists, the program showcases some of the most celebrated works of Baroque choral music. Each concert will feature a different selection of motets, with organ accompaniment and brief commentary to enhance the experience.

Event Details:

  • May 30: Saint James Place, Great Barrington, MA
  • May 31: Trinity Church, Lakeville, CT
  • Time: 4:00 p.m. (both days)
  • Tickets: $15–$80, with a discount for attending both performances

Tickets are available at crescendomusic.org or at the door.
 

It is my honor to represent our district. I look forward to hearing from you about the issues raised in this newsletter, or any other topics you think I should know about. You can email me at maria.horn@cga.ct.gov or call me at (860)-240-8585. Thanks for reading, and I wish you a safe weekend.

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Sincerely,


Maria Horn
State Representative

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