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September 2009 Issue
Capitol address
Legislative Office Building
Room 2100
Hartford, CT 06106-1595
E-mail
Musto@senatedems.ct.gov
On the Web
www.SenatorMusto.cga.ct.gov
Phone
Capitol: 860-240-0558
Toll-free: 1-800-842-1420
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This month’s Capitol News focuses on legislation that will prevent a major property tax increase for Bridgeport taxpayers, information on the H1N1 virus and links to information on how you can stay healthy this flu season, and details about next month’s senior fair in Trumbull.
Pension Relief Avoids
Property Tax Hike
Included in the budget bill that I supported last month was language that will help the City of Bridgeport avoid a major increase in property taxes on local residents and more layoffs in city government.
 The new law relieves Bridgeport from having to pay into pensions this year and for the next two years during this economic crisis. Firefighters and police officers both fully supported the measure. Without this bill, property tax payers would have had to pay tens of millions of dollars in tax increases. Still, the city will have to submit a plan to the state and explain how it will meet the obligation in the future and, if the state does not approve the plan, the city will have to make certain minimum payments.
A huge tax increase on working families now would be unfathomable, which is why I’m pleased that this was approved and put in place for Bridgeport.
Simple Steps to Prevent
H1N1 this Flu Season
While the FDA this month gave approval to the first vaccine against the H1N1 “swine flu” virus, and those most at risk will begin receiving their vaccinations within the next few weeks, most of us will have to wait a little longer for our shots.
 However, the Centers for Disease Control has information available on how you and your family can reduce your risk of contracting H1N1 and can help prevent the spread of the virus, like washing your hands often and staying home from school or work if you feel ill. The Connecticut Department of Public Health is also preparing for increased H1N1 cases this flu season, and you can keep up on what actions the state is taking on the agency’s Web site.
Additionally, seasonal flu vaccines — which offer protection from a different virus strain, not H1N1 — are already available. To be protected from both seasonal flu and H1N1, you will need to get two different vaccinations this year.
Check Out the Trumbull Senior Fair
 There are hundreds of resources available in our state that seniors can take advantage of, but they can be difficult to find. On Monday, October 26, I’ll be hosting a senior fair for area seniors, families and caretakers at the Trumbull Public Library that will feature area providers and vendors that can offer assistance and useful services.
The fair is from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and food and drink will be provided free. Organizations and agencies like the AARP, the Connecticut Commission on Aging and the State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division as well as groups like Masonicare and Greater Bridgeport Transit and many, many more will offer a clearinghouse of information for area residents.
For more information, please call my office at 1-800-842-1420, and be sure to mark your calendar!
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