John-Michael Parker

This week, the House concluded its legislative session, wrapping up months of hard work to deliver for the people of Connecticut.

Together, we produced a 2027 budget that significantly boosts support for the state’s education system, increases crucial investments in housing and transportation, supports town and city budgets, and more—all while safeguarding the state's strong fiscal outlook, including $1 billion toward paying down long-term debt.

In Durham and Madison, I helped deliver $147,548 in additional education aid and $231,197 in town aid.

Connecticut residents made a call for help in many areas. Connecticut lawmakers heard it and answered in a strong, bipartisan way.

Starting May 1, Connecticut residents can expect some welcome relief on their energy bills. Earlier this week, the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) approved an interim decision to lower residential electricity rates across the state.

Under this change, rates will decrease by approximately 4.3 cents per kilowatt-hour, about $30 per month for the average Eversource customer, and 4.9 cents per kilowatt-hour, or roughly $34 per month, for the average United Illuminating customer.

Recently, I joined my colleagues to publish an opinion piece advocating for a child tax credit in Connecticut.

The research shows that children raised in financial hardship face significant challenges compared to those who don't. All of our neighboring states have introduced child tax credits with proven results, and it is time for Connecticut to step up and do the same.

A child tax credit is a commonsense solution, and it will help Connecticut build the workforce and future it needs.

I wanted to share some good news for Durham residents! Durham was recently awarded a $2,200 grant from the Connecticut Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Enhancement Grant to create a Durham Farm Map.

The Durham Farm Map will collect information highlighting farms/agricultural property throughout the town, along with photos, social media content, links to websites, and more. The goal of the farm map is to highlight Durham as an inclusive and active farming location, inspire and encourage new farmers to locate their work in Durham, raise awareness for Durham’s Agritourism spaces, and preserve these farming spaces.

Durham has a beautiful farming community, and the Durham Farm Map will consolidate information on all of these spaces into one accessible location, showing the next generation of farmers what this town has to offer and what makes Durham such a hidden gem in Connecticut!

Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season filled with warmth, rest, and celebration. As your legislator, it is an honor to represent you, and I am thankful every day for the opportunity to serve our community. May the New Year bring you happiness, stability, and success in all your endeavors. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. May your day be filled with warmth and moments of gratitude, surrounded by friends and loved ones - and good food.

I wanted to invite you to a great event I'll be a part of on Tuesday, Sept. 16 with the Sierra Club.

On Tuesday, September 16 from 5:30-7pm at Baur Farm (245-323 Copse Rd., Madison), I will be joining the Sierra Club for a "Walk with a Purpose" event. We will be discussing some of the major environmental legislation I've been working on as House Chair of the Environment Committee, exploring local nature, and even giving back to our planet by picking up trash along the way!

I'm happy to share that I was announced as the Connecticut League of Conservation Voter's 2025 Environmental Champion, which is a tremendous honor!

The state legislature passed some critical environment bills this year, including HB 5004, which takes a comprehensive, practical, and equitable approach to protecting our environment. From homes and schools to jobs and land, we set clear goals, removed barriers, and put residents first.

We also passed SB 9, our resiliency bill that makes changes in laws related to planning for and preparing against certain hazards and climate change (such as sea level rise, rising groundwater, extreme heat, wildfire, drought, or flooding).

As House Chair of the legislature's Environment Committee, I understand the importance of protecting and preserving our ecosystem, and I am committed to passing legislation for a cleaner, greener world. I'm very proud to have been recognized by this wonderful organization!