State Capitol Update For The Week of January 8
January 8, 2026
Dear Friend,
This is my State Capitol update for the week of January 8.
Click the image below to view my video on this week’s events.
Here’s a list of today’s topics:
- Updated DSS/ SNAP Requirements. Click here.
- Minimum Wage Increased. Click here.
- Access Health Enrollment Deadline Extended. Click here.
- CAS Heart of the Arts Submissions. Click here.
- ICYMI - CT Department of Agriculture: Agricultural Enhancement Grants Available. Click here.
- Northwest Corner Events. Click here.
As a result of federal legislation, requirements and rules for SNAP benefits have changed. Click here to see if the changes will impact you.
On January 1st, the Connecticut minimum wage increased to $16.94/hour: a response to the state’s increased cost of living. This wage increase will directly benefit more than 160,000 workers.
Access Health Enrollment Deadline Extended
Access Health CT (AHCT), Connecticut’s official health insurance marketplace, has announced that the final deadline to enroll in a health or dental plan for 2026 has been extended to Saturday, January 31. Customers who enroll now will have coverage starting February 1. Customers can also renew their coverage.
Visit Access Health CT's website for more information.
CT Association of Schools (CAS) Heart of the Arts Submissions
It is not too late to submit nominations for the CAS 2026 Heart of the Arts Award. This prestigious award honors students, adults, or groups involved in high school performing or visual arts who exemplify the core values of education-based activities—integrity, citizenship, courage, and good character.
If you know someone who has shown exceptional "Heart,” gone above and beyond to support others in the school community, or overcome significant challenges, nominate them for this award! The deadline for nominations is Friday, January 16.
Click here for more information.
ICYMI - CT Department of Agriculture: Agricultural Enhancement Grants Available
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the 2026 Agricultural Enhancement Grant Program, which supports projects that strengthen agricultural viability across the state.
Eligible municipalities, regional councils of governments, and agricultural nonprofits may apply for grants ranging from $500 to $49,999, with applications due February 2, 2026, at 4:00 PM. Priority areas include youth and urban agriculture, food hubs and supply chain improvements, and farmland access. Grant details, application materials, and webinar information are available on the Agricultural Enhancement Grant website.
ICYMI
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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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