Groton — State Rep. Christine Conley, D-Groton, has qualified for the Citizens' Election Program, which provides public financing to candidates who demonstrate support from residents in their local district.

The program gives financing to qualified candidates running for state offices and the General Assembly, and is designed to limit the role of big money in the political process. Conley raised the required 150 contributions from local residents and exceeded the requirement of $5,100 needed to qualify, according to a news release.

“I am excited to announce that our campaign for re-election is off to such a strong start,” Conley said in a prepared statement. “I love serving as the people’s Representative in Groton and Ledyard, and it has been humbling to see so many people come forward to join the campaign this early.”

Conley currently serves on the House Judiciary, Transportation, and Planning & Development committees. She has introduced and sponsored several bills this year, including legislation on jobs, education and women’s health care.

“What a difference in leadership we’ve seen with Christine Conley,” Groton Town Mayor Patrice Granatosky said in a release. “As someone who has worked in Groton government, she understands the issues, and works hard for the people in her district especially for our schools and students.”