Irene Haines

Rep. Haines Votes “No” on Housing Bill: “The State Is Pushing Local Communities Aside"

Hartford, CT – State Representative Irene Haines (R-34) voted “no” during last night’s Special Session on the legislature’s newly revised housing bill, citing the state’s growing overreach into local planning decisions and the bill’s shift toward making Hartford—not communities—the driver of housing development across Connecticut. “This was a frustrating day and night for anyone who believes in open, collaborative government,” said Rep. Haines. “This bill hands sweeping new authority to the state while sidelining the people who know their communities best. It doesn’t create housing this year, or even next year, yet it gives Hartford unprecedented control over how our towns must grow. That is not how you address an emergency—or make good policy.” Rep. Haines, who represents East Haddam, East Hampton, and Salem, said the legislation places unrealistic and risky obligations on small and rural towns, many of which are already stretched thin. “Instead of supporting towns, this bill turns the state into a top-down housing developer, dictating quotas and forcing municipalities into new planning obligations that many simply cannot meet,” she said. “Local governments are left with all the liability, while Hartford gets all the authority. That is unfair and unworkable.” The bill passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 90–56 and now moves to the State Senate. Among Rep. Haines’ chief concerns are provisions that: Force towns or regions to adopt new state-directed housing growth plans under threat of losing key protections; Remove local parking minimums for smaller projects, which could strain infrastructure in small and rural communities; Require regional planning bodies to enforce state-imposed “Fair Share” housing quotas, pushing them into a regulatory role they were never designed for; and Establish a new statewide housing council—largely appointed by the Governor—with broad authority to shape zoning and housing policy across all towns. “Small towns like ours work every day to meet the needs of our residents,” Haines said. “But East Haddam isn’t Hartford. Salem isn’t Bridgeport. One-size-fits-all mandates ignore the unique realities of our communities and put them at unnecessary risk.” Rep. Haines emphasized that she supports thoughtful, responsible housing growth but believes solutions must originate at the local level rather than be imposed from above. “Good housing policy starts with honest discussion and respect for local input,” she said. “Instead, we were given a rushed bill, rewritten behind closed doors, and handed to towns without the resources to carry it out. I voted no because our communities deserve better—and I’ll continue fighting for the people I represent.”

Rep. Haines Calls for Immediate Action to Address SNAP Crisis: “Use the Rainy Day Fund for Its Purpose

EAST HADDAM — State Representative Irene Haines (R-East Haddam, East Hampton, Salem) is calling on state leaders to take immediate action to address Connecticut’s growing SNAP benefits crisis, urging that the state’s $4.3 billion Rainy Day Fund be used for its intended purpose — responding to emergencies. “Instead of creating new slush funds, let’s use the Rainy Day Fund for its purpose — an emergency,” said Rep. Haines. “Thousands of Connecticut residents are losing access to SNAP benefits and can’t afford groceries. That is a crisis, and we have the means to help right now.” Haines criticized legislative Democrats and the State Treasurer for pursuing a new fund structure instead of using existing resources to provide immediate relief. “Families across Connecticut are struggling, and they deserve leadership, not political games,” Haines said. “The Rainy Day Fund isn’t meant to sit idle while people can’t put food on the table. If this situation is truly a crisis — and it is — then the Governor should treat it like one. Families shouldn’t be left waiting while politicians point fingers and delay action.” Haines reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for fiscal responsibility while ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used where they matter most — supporting Connecticut families in times of real need.

Rep. Haines Hosts Successful “Hands Off Homeschoolers” Forum in East Haddam

EAST HADDAM — State Representative Irene Haines (R-East Haddam, East Hampton, Salem) hosted a well-attended Hands Off Homeschoolers forum at the East Haddam Grange Hall, where parents, educators, and advocates came together to discuss proposed state regulations on homeschooling and to reaffirm the importance of parental rights and educational choice. “The turnout and discussion were tremendous,” said Rep. Haines. “Parents, educators, and advocates shared thoughtful questions and powerful perspectives that reaffirmed our priorities: child safety, parental rights, and accountability for state overreach. Homeschooling must remain a family decision, not a bureaucratic mandate.” Rep. Haines extended her gratitude to Special Guest and homeschooling advocate Attorney Debra Stevenson, as well as to her colleagues State Representative Tim Ackert, State Representative Tammy Nuccio, and State Representative Anne Dauphinais, for their leadership and commitment to protecting educational freedom in Connecticut. “With the legislative session approaching, we’ll continue to stand with homeschooling families and defend their right to make decisions that best serve their children,” said Haines. “I encourage everyone to stay involved, share this message, and follow Connecticut House Republicans for updates. Together, we will continue to advocate for child safety and educational choice.”

Rep. Irene Haines Supports Middle-Class Property Tax Relief Plan: Largest Property Tax Credit Expansion in State History

EAST HADDAM — State Representative Irene Haines (R-East Haddam, East Hampton, Salem) is joining House Republicans in supporting a plan to deliver real middle-class property tax relief—providing significant savings for Connecticut families without reducing municipal revenue. The House Republican proposal increases the Property Tax Credit against the state income tax to a maximum of $1,000, more than tripling the current $300 credit. It also establishes a minimum full credit of $400 for eligible income levels and expands eligibility by approximately $20,000 for single filers and $30,000 for most joint filers, extending relief to more working- and middle-class families across Connecticut. “Homeowners in our towns are feeling the strain of higher costs in nearly every part of their lives,” said Rep. Haines. “This plan gives families meaningful relief and ensures our towns in East Haddam, East Hampton, and Salem don’t lose a single dollar in local funding.” The proposal represents the largest expansion of the state’s Property Tax Credit in Connecticut history, expected to benefit more than 800,000 tax filers statewide. By comparison, the Governor’s latest budget increased the maximum credit by only $50. Unlike past proposals that placed additional burdens on municipalities, this plan fully protects town revenues by funding the credit through the state’s strong financial reserves. “Connecticut families built this surplus through years of fiscal discipline and responsibility,” Haines added. “It’s time to give back to the taxpayers who made that possible and help make our state more affordable for everyone.” Support the Largest Property Tax Credit in State History House Republicans are calling on residents to support this plan and follow its progress in the upcoming legislative session.

Rep. Irene Haines Named “Legislator of the Year” by American College of Surgeons for Leadership on “Stop the Bleed” Legislation

EAST HADDAM — On Friday, October 17 , State Representative Irene Haines (R-34) was honored as Legislator of the Year by the Connecticut Chapter of the American College of Surgeons at a ceremony held at the Marriott in Trumbull . The award recognizes Rep. Haines’ leadership and commitment in advancing “Stop the Bleed” legislation—an initiative designed to ensure that bleeding control training and life-saving kits are available in public buildings across Connecticut. Rep. Haines was joined by Representative Liz Lenihan , 13-year-old advocate Waylon Page , and Waylon’s parents for the award presentation, which was made by Dr. David Shapiro, MD of the American College of Surgeons. “This recognition is a tremendous honor,” said Rep. Haines. “Working alongside Rep. Liz Lenihan, Dr. Shapiro, and Waylon and his family over the past year has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my time in public service. Waylon’s courage and determination inspired us all to get this legislation passed.” Earlier this year, Rep. Haines hosted a “Stop the Bleed” training at the Capitol to support HB 7200 , a bill she proudly co-sponsored. The legislation, which was passed in May, requires bleeding control training, provides life-saving kits in public buildings, and helps first responders become certified in emergency bleeding response. Throughout the legislative session, Rep. Haines worked closely with advocates and medical professionals to raise awareness about the importance of quick action in bleeding emergencies. She and Waylon Page also appeared on WFSB to share how the bill will help save lives across the state. “I’m deeply grateful to the American College of Surgeons for this recognition,” Haines added. “This award reflects the hard work and collaboration of so many people who care deeply about protecting lives and making our communities safer.” For more information about the “Stop the Bleed” initiative or HB 7200, visit www.cthousegop.com/haines .