State Senator Donald J. DeFronzo
October 20, 2009
DeFronzo, Representative Guerrera Recognized by AARP for Dial-A-Ride Advocacy
Worked to preserve state matching grant program
Southington — During this year’s legislative session and despite staggering budget deficits, state Senator Donald DeFronzo (D-New Britain) and Representative Antonio Guerrera (D-Rocky Hill), co-chairs of the General Assembly’s Transportation Committee, advocated for the preservation of a state matching grant program that provides funding to municipalities for Dial-a-Ride services.
Ultimately, the lawmakers were successful in saving the matching grant program, which was targeted by the Rell Administration for cuts, and his work helped to preserve transportation services for seniors and the disabled all across the state of Connecticut. At a ceremony in Southington this morning, AARP Connecticut recognized Senator DeFronzo and Representative Guerrera for their advocacy with state Legislative Achievement Awards.
“Dial-a-Ride service is vital to the independent living of seniors and those living with disabilities across our state,” Senator DeFronzo said. “Without the matching funds, many municipalities would be been forced drastically reduce or to stop service all together. This program is a partnership between municipalities and the state, and it’s a partnership that, despite our budget deficit, I believed we should maintain. I was proud to advocate for this important program, and I’m thankful to the AARP for their support all through this difficult process.”
“This was a fight worth having,” Representative Guerrera said. “Seniors and the disabled depend on Dial-a-Ride for their day-to-day transportation needs. Without the matching grant, Dial-a-Ride would have been stuck in ‘park’ and thousands of seniors would have been left stranded.”
Since 2005, the Dial-a-Ride matching grant program has enabled more than 140 towns and municipalities to expand transportation options for seniors and people with disabilities that are essential for them to remain independent and active as they age. The program costs the state $5 million per year.
With over 39 million members, AARP is the leading nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for people age 50 and over in the United States. AARP is dedicated to enhancing quality of life for all as we age.
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Senator DeFronzo’s |
Listing of Senator DeFronzo’s recent press releases and a Press Kit with official head shots and bio. |
Press Aide Jaclyn Falkowski |
