Maria Horn

Here’s a list of today’s topics: 

• Session Update. Click here. 
• CT Farm Business Exhibit at the Big E. Click here.
• Funding for Fresh Foods. Click here. 
• ICYMI - Nominations for International Year of the Woman Farmer. Click here. 
• Northwest Corner Events. Click here. 

As you may know, I currently serve as the House Chair of the Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee. We have formally raised several legislative concepts this session and are now preparing for upcoming public hearings.

These proposals reflect ongoing conversations about strengthening Connecticut’s fiscal stability, supporting working families and small businesses, and ensuring responsible investment in our communities. As we move into the public hearing phase of the legislative process, members of the public will have the opportunity to provide testimony and help shape the final legislation. We want to hear from you - public input is a critical part of the committee process as we work to advance thoughtful, balanced policy solutions.

In addition to my work on the Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee, I also serve on the Energy & Technology and Environment Committees. During these committee meetings, my colleagues and I conversed about issues that will impact the state currently as well as in the future, such as energy affordability and reliability, emerging technologies, and protecting Connecticut’s natural resources.

Connecticut farms, specialty food businesses, and agricultural organizations are invited to apply for exhibit space in the Connecticut Building at The Big E. Hosted by the Connecticut Department of Agriculture in coordination with the Connecticut Office of Tourism, the Connecticut Building showcases a diverse line-up of CT Grown businesses during the 17-day fair, which runs September 18 through October 4  at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, MA.

With more than one million visitors entering the Connecticut Building each year, exhibitors have a unique opportunity to market their products, promote their services, engage new customers, and drive traffic back to their farms for on-site experiences. Special highlights include Connecticut Day on September 23 and Harvest New England Day on October 2.

Eligible applicants include agricultural businesses, nonprofit agricultural organizations, and entities with an agricultural mission that showcase the diversity of farming in Connecticut.

The application deadline is Monday, March 23 at 4:00 p.m. For more information or to apply, click here.  

In 2025, the United Nations voted to declare 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The U.N. thought it was important to highlight the role women play across food systems, while also acknowledging the specific changes they may face.

To celebrate, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture is collecting stories statewide to amplify the voices of women farmers. Click here for the nomination form. 

Community members are invited to attend a special screening of Uprooting Addiction: Healing from the Ground Up on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the Bantam Cinema & Arts Center .

This powerful film follows six individuals from Connecticut with diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds as they examine the childhood traumas at the root of their drug addictions. Through their stories—and insights from local officials, activists, citizens, and experts—the program explores meaningful solutions to an ongoing public health crisis.

Admission is free, and refreshments will be provided. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by scanning the QR code on the flyer or visiting www.uprootingaddiction.com