Kicking Off the 2025 Legislative Session

January 16, 2025


 
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Dear Neighbor,

Last week

was the opening day of the 2025 Legislative Session in Hartford. As the House Chairman of the Public Safety & Security Committee, I joined Ranking Member State Rep. Greg Howard, calling attention to the incidents that occurred across Connecticut since the legislature adjourned last spring. Incidents included the devastating flooding in Litchfield & Fairfield counties and the statewide wildfires in October.

We hosted on the House Floor local Fire Chiefs and the team from the

CT Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. We asked for a moment of silence for those who gave their lives in the line of duty. The entire House stood in silence for 1 minute to honor their sacrifice.
One thing that undoubtedly makes our work better is when we hear directly from you, so I hope you’ll take my survey and let me know what is a priority for you and your family. 
2025 Legislative Survey
 
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) seeks farmer participation in a brief survey regarding weather-related losses during 2023 and 2024. Your input helps determine the funding request CT DoAg will submit to the federal government to assist with these losses and guide which types should be included.
 
On December 20, 2024, a Continuing Resolution was signed into law, securing $220 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide block grants to eight eligible states, including Connecticut. This funding aims to compensate producers for losses and expenses resulting from weather events in 2023 and 2024. Each state must estimate its losses and develop a fund distribution plan.
 
The survey asks about specific weather-related losses in 2023 and 2024 and long-term stresses exacerbated by weather conditions in these two years. Examples of losses include, but are not limited to:
 
• Production losses
• Damage to infrastructure (e.g., buildings, hoop houses, fences, roads)
• Increased production costs due to pressure from invasive species
• Losses due to soil contamination
• Physical damage to cropland
• Increased input costs, such as feed
 
Comprehensive data is needed to accurately assess the scope of losses and inform the funding request. You're encouraged to complete the survey, even if you have already received grants, loans, or insurance for the losses listed. These payments will be considered when the program application is launched.
 
The survey will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, January 19.
Department of Agriculture Survey
 
When the State Comptroller visits your House District, where do you go? The Bakers Dozen! Thank you Comptroller Sean Scanlon, for visiting the Quiet Corner to talk to our Seniors about lowering prescription drug prices and the public on WINY Radio.
 
The Elm Farm LLC, The Peckham Family & Farm To Table Market need our help. A devastating fire destroyed the Milking Parlor just before Christmas. The damage was mitigated by the quick action of multiple Volunteer Fire Departments and the staff at Elm. The Connecticut Department of Agriculture was on the scene the night of the fire, helping get the neighboring Hibbard Farm's milking equipment up to standard. Still, assistance is needed to get things rebuilt and up and running at the Elm. If you can lend a hand, it would be much appreciated. We must do all we can to preserve these small, local agricultural businesses in our region.
Go Fund Me
 
Check out this new book by Brooklyn's Ling Messer called "Local Getaways." It's all about Northeastern Connecticut. She describes the book as "A photographer’s book of some of the top favorite destinations & experiences for anyone looking for things to do in Windham County, Connecticut."
 
I picked it up before Christmas, and it highlights all of the great businesses, farms & establishments around the Quiet Corner.
Learn More
 
Midway Restaurant in Ashford is a staple of the community and a gathering spot for many. After a devastating fire caused it to close in 2022, the owners regrouped, and Midway reopened with a full renovation over the summer of 2024. Last night, I had the opportunity to offer official congratulations for the dedication and determination to reopen.
 
As your voice in Hartford, I need to hear from you to make informed decisions. I regularly post updates on my social media channels (you can like my Facebook page here) and encourage you to follow them to stay updated. Additionally, you can always email me directly or call my office at (860) 240-8585 if you have any questions or to share your opinions.

Take Care,

Pat Boyd

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