| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| Hartford, CT, February 17, 2026 – CT Policy Talks, a public policy discussion series dedicated to exploring critical issues affecting Connecticut residents, will host its next event on February 18, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) Offices, located at 350 Church Street, Hartford.
CT Policy Talks is presented by the UConn School of Public Policy in collaboration with the Capitol Region Council of Governments. Through this partnership, the series convenes experts, policymakers, and community members to examine pressing challenges and advance informed, solutions-focused dialogue. Each session engages participants with thought leaders, grassroots organizations, and both elected and non-elected decision-makers working to shape Connecticut’s future. “The UConn School of Public Policy is grateful to be able to partner with the Capitol Region Council of Governments on this series, highlighting important policy issues for the region and state,” said UConn School of Public Policy Director, Angela Eikenberry. Event Focus: Medicaid Policy at a Pivotal Moment The February 18 panel, “CT Medicaid at the Crossroads: Federal Shifts, State Responses & Equity Implications,” will explore how Connecticut’s Medicaid program is influenced by evolving federal and state policy decisions. Discussion will include the impact of federal changes initiated during the prior administration-such as work requirements, waiver flexibility, managed care regulations, and funding approaches-and how these shifts intersect with Connecticut’s coverage goals, equity priorities, and budget realities. Panelists will examine: The interaction between federal oversight and state-level priorities The roles of state agencies, legislators, providers, and advocates in Medicaid policy design and implementation The implications of Connecticut replacing federal funding reductions with state resources The trade-offs involved in balancing Medicaid sustainability with competing demands on the state budget“I’m looking forward to this important conversation,” stated Matt Hart, CRCOG’s Executive Director. “The panelists will highlight lessons that they and others have learned and the potential pathways we can use to strengthen Connecticut’s Medicaid program amid continuing federal uncertainty. We hope that you can join us!” Registration The event is free and open to the public. Register here: https://uconn.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bxujLFwqvog4Gua |
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The Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) is a voluntary Council of Governments formed to initiate and implement regional programs and initiatives to benefit our member towns and the region. CRCOG is guided by the chief elected officials of our 38 Metro Hartford municipalities, who recognize that the future of our individual members is tied to the future of our region. Our members have collaborated for over 50 years on a diverse range of projects, services, and initiatives.
CRCOG is the largest of Connecticut’s regional planning organizations, with a population of 976,248 and a land area of 1,047 square miles. The CRCOG region is well-situated between New York City and Boston, and is rich in history, cultural and educational amenities, and natural resources. CRCOG’s team of professional staff works to promote responsible land use, effective transportation systems, economic vitality, and quality of life. CRCOG is a proud advocate for its members and region and provides various shared services to facilitate governmental efficiency.