Senate Democrats in the News

OLR Summarizes Major Public Acts

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:26:35 -0400

Office of Legislative Research: These summaries are intended to describe briefly the most significant, far-reaching, and publicly debated acts passed by the General Assembly in its 2013 regular session.

Housing dedicated for low-income residents in New London

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:42:58 -0400

The Day: A college student studying to be a dental hygienist and a single mom with three teenagers will be the tenants in a newly renovated HOPE house on Summer Street that was dedicated Monday.

Homeownership Still The Goal of Many; State Looks To Help

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:16:49 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: A survey of 600 renters found that nearly two-thirds of renters or 63.8 percent say they are very or somewhat interested in homeownership.

Coastal communities adapt to change by razing and raising

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:25:27 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: As Connecticut’s shoreline braces for a hurricane season forecast to be one of the worst in years, it is still digging out from the damage of previous storms.

Malloy to meet with Conn. utilities on storm prep

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:23:16 -0400

WTNH8: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is meeting with Connecticut's utility companies to discuss their preparations for the upcoming hurricane season.

Few states have genetically modified food laws

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 10:44:25 -0400

Connecticut Post: Maine has joined Connecticut in requiring labels on genetically modified food, but more states must do the same for the laws to take effect.

CT small businesses open opportunity window

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 10:46:09 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Chris Runyan doesn't see himself as a gamer, but as a perseverant entrepreneur.

Future in 3-D

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 12:32:07 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Oxford Performance Materials was one of the first companies in the state to receive funds from the new Small Business Express Program, which is providing $100 million to leverage funding for small businesses in Connecticut with fewer than 50 employees.

New legislation will put extra pressure on local school districts

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 09:37:31 -0400

Middletown Press: Local school districts have mixed reactions to new legislation that will affect how often they evaluate teachers and administrators.

State Senator Dante Bartolomeo announces funding for HUB project

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 09:34:21 -0400

Record Journal: CT State Senator Dante Bartolomeo is joined by fellow representatives and city officials to announce state funding for the HUB project in Meriden CT on June 14, 2013.

Making Connecticut Greener Pasture For Business

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 12:26:59 -0400

Hartford Courant: Exploiting our assets and addressing our deficiencies requires a Connecticut team captained by an energetic governor supported by an enlightened legislature and an engaged private sector. We're clearly building one.

Workshop For State Grants, Loans

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 08:52:13 -0400

Hartford Courant: The Connecticut Small Business Express program, a combination of grants, loans, and forgivable loans available to businesses headquartered in Connecticut with fewer than 100 employees, is open to more applicants.

Salamander Designs, Home Theater Furniture-Maker, A Chameleon In Changing Market

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 08:46:31 -0400

Hartford Courant: A year ago, he borrowed $100,000 from the state Small Business Express program, and received a $250,000 grant, which has accelerated hiring.

Solar power E-House opens in Milford

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 08:53:17 -0400

WTNH8: A house made of recycled material, running only on solar power and built by high schoolers, the state's fourth "E-House," opened Thursday.

CT awards $9.8M in stem cell grants

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:24:17 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The state has awarded 23 Connecticut researchers $9.8 million in stem cell grants, authorities say.

State's Hispanic Population Tops 500,000

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:03:10 -0400

Hartford Courant: In New London, town officials have instructed their police to refrain from inquiring about a suspect's immigration status and are encouraging more Latinos to get involved in education and politics.

Guilford, Waterbury supporting energy efficiency push

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 10:13:36 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Guilford and Waterbury are aiming to lighten the load of energy bills for its residents.

Connecticut praised at Senate hearing for fighting sex trafficking

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 10:11:54 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: With members of Congress worried that states have been lax in reporting and addressing the problem of children being sold for sex, Connecticut was pointed to at a Senate hearing Tuesday as a potential model.

On GMO labeling, Conn. needs other states to act

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 16:29:25 -0400

Associated Press: Advocates are celebrating the nation's most sweeping legislation requiring special labels for genetically modified food, but to take effect the new Connecticut law will need help from lawmakers in neighboring states.

Madison adds eight acres to Constitution Park

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:01:07 -0400

New Haven Register: Eight acres of land will be added to Constitution Park to be used for open space and recreation, local officials said at a Monday press conference.

Personal courage subject of Prudence Crandall lecture

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 17:15:46 -0400

Reminder News: History came alive once again in Canterbury on June 8 with the final talk in the Prudence Crandall Lecture Series.

Here Come The Hyundais

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 09:22:11 -0400

New Haven Independent: For the past 20 years city officials have wielded golden shovels to break ground welcoming new groceries, markets, restaurants, and apartment towers.

State Aid To Guilford Up By $103,599, or 2.8 Percent In FY 2013

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:02:59 -0400

Guilford Patch: When the General Assembly voted on the state budget on June 5, 2013, Guilford fared better than last year.

Free dental clinic draws hundreds to Bridgeport

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 17:15:39 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Beth Carter was in pain from the oral surgery. She’d spent the past night outside. She was on the verge of crying from the pain, except she couldn’t stop praising what she’d just gotten: her first dental care in nearly a decade.

Conn. officials call for federal GMO labeling bill

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 17:12:37 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut officials are calling on Congress to pass legislation requiring the clear labeling of genetically modified foods.

Legislature busy to session's end

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 09:31:08 -0400

Connecticut Post: The 2013 legislative session roared to a close early Thursday, with flurries of late-breaking bills in the House and Senate before the 12:01 a.m. deadline, then a cascade of cheers and hugs in the House.

Malloy makes CT minimum-wage hike official

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 15:53:24 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: With a penstroke Thursday, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy set Connecticut firmly on course to raise its minimum wage in stages over the next two years.

Two Sessions In One

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:24:18 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: It was a five-month session bookended by legislation related to the second-worst school shooting in the nation’s history - a horrific event that brought Republican and Democratic lawmakers together for what they hoped to be the greater good.

Freshman Lawmakers Share Growing Pains As Session Draws To Close

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:22:29 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: As their first legislative session wound down, some of the freshman lawmakers reflected on what they said has been an atypical five months and a remarkable learning experience.

MxCC to get $44M for new building

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:28:57 -0400

The Middletown Press: The state legislature has authorized $44 million for design and construction of a new academic building at Middlesex Community College.

Bioscience bill passes in both House, Senate

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:05:52 -0400

The Day: The Senate passed, 20-15, a bill that requires Connecticut Innovations to develop a plan to facilitate bioscience and pharmaceutical business growth in southeastern Connecticut Wednesday night.

Conn. bills that passed and failed in 2013 session

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 09:40:12 -0400

Associated Press: Here is a look at some of the legislation that either passed or failed during the 2013 session of the Connecticut General Assembly.

Malloy inks solar tax exemption into law

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 09:59:54 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy signed a law exempting commercial renewable energy installations from municipal property tax.

Connecticut school killings dominate legislative session

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 23:16:47 -0400

The Register Citizen: Connecticut lawmakers were closing out a legislative session Wednesday, dominated by the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre that put the state in the middle of a heated, national debate over gun control and brought veteran legislators to tears after meeting with the victims' mourning families.

Senate Approves Bigger Fines for Cell Phone Use While Driving

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 22:23:53 -0400

Hartford Courant: In the waning hours of the year’s legislative session, lawmakers have approved tougher penalties for people who text behind the wheel.

After missteps, lawmakers move for more oversight of state's universities

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:26:12 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Legislators have asked the governor to sign into law two bills that would increase their oversight over the state's public colleges and universities -- their reaction to a series of problems revealed at the state's largest public college system last fall.

Bill expands requirements for fire, CO detectors

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 22:22:32 -0400

WTNH8: A measure expanding the requirement for installing carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in residences is heading to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy for his signature.

Millstone owner won't pass on tax to customers

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 11:11:10 -0400

The Day: Millstone Power Station owner Dominion Resources will absorb its $10.5 million share of the $17.5 million energy generation tax rather than pass it on to ratepayers, company spokesman Kevin Hennessy said Tuesday.

Lawmakers approve $1.5 billion UConn expansion

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 09:37:22 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut's General Assembly has given final legislative approval to a $1.5 billion plan to expand the University of Connecticut.

Conn. lawmakers pass budget-related bill

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 09:38:20 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut lawmakers have approved the first of several bills that spell out details of the new two-year, $44 billion state budget bill awaiting Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's signature.

CT's Canadian hydro bill becomes law

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 10:14:40 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Wednesday signed Connecticut's new renewable portfolio standards into law, opening the door to large-scale hydro from Canada.

Lawmakers pass compromise Newtown privacy bill

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 09:36:40 -0400

WTNH8: The Connecticut House of Representatives has given final legislative passage to a compromise that would prevent the release of crime scene photos and video evidence from the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre and other homicides.

Connecticut Becomes Latest State To Establish Blue Alert System

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 19:20:16 -0400

Hartford Courant: Gov. Malloy last week signed into law a measure to establish a statewide Blue Alert system, aimed at keeping the public safe when a violent criminal who has killed or seriously injured a member of law enforcement is still at large.

Renewable Energy Bill Is On Its Way To Gov.

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 18:55:45 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The changes are relatively minor, but the Senate re-passed renewable energy legislation modified by the House last week.

Bill toughens penalties in child sex trafficking cases

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 18:53:48 -0400

The Connecticut Mirror: Targeting minors for prostitution is about to become a little more difficult for pimps and “johns.”

Home Insurance Bill Protects Against Dropped Coverage After Loss From Catastrophe

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 10:31:09 -0400

Hartford Courant: A bill awaiting Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s signature would make it illegal for home insurers to decline or cancel coverage — or refuse to renew a policy — based solely on losses from a tropical storm or other catastrophe.

Bill expands absentee voting for overseas military

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:24:29 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut lawmakers are sending the governor a bill that could pave the way for electronic voting in future elections.

Senate Gives Final Passage To Budget; Different Views of Future

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:27:19 -0400

CTNewJunkie: The Senate gave final passage Monday to the two-year, $37.6 billion budget that moves more than $6 billion in Medicaid spending out from under the spending cap.

EDITORIAL: Right To Farm Keeps Rural Real

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 19:26:08 -0400

Hartford Courant: After World War II, many city residents decamped for the suburbs in search of bucolic peace and quiet, out near the picturesque farms.

Hartford landfill to house 6-acre solar field

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:45:00 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority will install a six-acre solar array on the former Hartford landfill by October, authorities say.

Our View: GMO compromise is reasonable plan

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 10:24:28 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Democrats and Republicans in the state Senate have come up with a reasonable compromise on the controversial issue of labeling genetically modified food products, a compromise that addresses our biggest concern: The economic impact of the proposal on food costs.

Labeling of modified foods heads to Conn. governor

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 16:39:59 -0400

WTNH8: Legislation requiring special labels on food sold in Connecticut that contains genetically modified ingredients, so long as other states pass similar legislation, is heading to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's desk for his signature.

State legislature OKs bill to end vapor recovery requirement at gas stations

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:40:12 -0400

Republican American: The state legislature last week overwhelmingly approved a bill intended to save money for gas station owners and reduce air pollution.

Senate Clarifies Gun Bill Passed In April

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 16:11:15 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Acknowledging that no legislation is “perfect,” the Senate approved a bill Monday fixing problems in the sweeping gun control law adopted in April.

Lawmaking a ‘learning process’ for Connecticut Senate leader Looney

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:52:18 -0400

New Haven Register: In a decade as majority leader in the state Senate, Martin Looney, D-New Haven, has put in hundreds of hours overseeing the flow of bills taken up in any session, in addition to hundreds more in screening meetings.

More muscle to close illegal massage parlors

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 17:07:57 -0400

Connecticut Post: Legislation that would make it easier for police and state prosecutors to shut down businesses with histories of criminal activity was unanimously approved in the Senate on Saturday night and heads to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's desk.

UConn-Stamford Expansion Plan Moves Forward

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 13:21:22 -0400

New Canaan Daily Voice: The State Senate has voted in favor of the “Next Generation Connecticut” bill, which would go toward improving the University of Connecticut and would include expansions to the UConn-Stamford campus.

Push To Get Budget Done-House Gives OK; Senate Vote Next

Sun, 02 Jun 2013 10:18:32 -0400

Hartford Courant: After a bitter dispute about state spending that lasted about five hours, the House voted 95-48 along party lines to approve the budget. The measure now goes to the state Senate, which is expected to vote as early as Monday.

Conn. House sends anti-gouging bill to governor

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:51:31 -0400

WTNH: A bill that would extend a ban on severe-weather price gouging to services such as snow removal is heading to Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy's desk.

Conn. Senate passes GMO labeling compromise bill

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:49:57 -0400

Associated Press: The Connecticut Senate on Saturday approved a compromise bill that would require special labels on food that contains genetically modified ingredients, so long as other states pass similar legislation.

Bill requires trained school security officers

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:42:01 -0400

Associated Press: A bill that sets standards for school security officers in the wake of the Newtown school shooting has received final legislative approval.

Pool safety bill moves to Conn. governor

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:40:16 -0400

Stamford Advocate: Connecticut is moving closer toward requiring public schools to adopt statewide safety standards for swimming pools used in physical education classes, team events and extracurricular activities.

House Passes Bill Whose Goal Is Improving Children's Mental Health

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:54:01 -0400

Hartford Courant: More than five months after the Newtown massacre, the state House gave final legislative approval Friday to a bipartisan bill designed to improve the emotional and mental health of children.

Pols react as a grass-roots movement comes of age to force GMO labeling

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 12:11:26 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: With a deal that revives a bill requiring the labeling of genetically engineered foods, Connecticut’s legislative leaders Saturday acknowledged a movement that has muscled its way from the scientific fringe to political mainstream.

Senate Approves Bonding For UConn

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:47:43 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Senate approved a bill Saturday that would dole out $1.5 billion in state bonds to the University of Connecticut over the next 10 years.

Conn. foreclosure reform bill heads to governor

Fri, 31 May 2013 11:38:28 -0400

NECN: A bill that aims to protect Connecticut homeowners facing foreclosure is heading to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy.

State increasing penalties for distracted drivers

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 13:30:18 -0400

Connecticut Post: Connecticut's Legislature has passed bills to toughen laws on distracted driving. The bills include increased fines and allow the state insurance commissioner to notify auto insurers when distracted clients are caught and would allow the Department of Motor Vehicles to assess points on licenses of offenders.

Conn. passes child mental health services bill

Fri, 31 May 2013 13:19:27 -0400

WTNH8: Lawmakers are sending the governor a bill that aims to improve child mental health services in Connecticut in the wake of the December school shooting in Newtown.

Education group to get more oversight

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 12:16:40 -0400

Connecticut Post: A little-known organization that was used by the state education commissioner to circumvent state bidding requirements last year would have several new layers of oversight and transparency under legislation that awaits action in the House.

Senate OKs bill to study family medical leave insurance

Fri, 31 May 2013 12:17:12 -0400

The Day: The Senate on Friday passed by a 22-12 vote a bill that establishes a task force to study family medical leave insurance.

Connecticut State Senate increases fines for illegal dirt bike, ATV riders in New Haven

Fri, 31 May 2013 12:15:43 -0400

New Haven Register: The Connecticut State Senate passed legislation Friday to increase penalties for illegal dirt bike and ATV riders in New Haven.

State Senate Passes Cheshire Prison Bill

Fri, 31 May 2013 12:12:11 -0400

Cheshire Patch: The State Senate gave final, unanimous and bipartisan passage Friday evening to a bill that will allow the town of Cheshire to renegotiate the terms of its prison contracts with the state.

Looney, Harp Go To Bat For Cyclists

Fri, 31 May 2013 12:27:55 -0400

New Haven Independent: The latest indication that cyclists have become a political force in New Haven: New Haven’s state senators led passage Thursday of a bill to stiffen fines for drivers who run over “vulnerable users.”

Conn. anti-distracted driving bills progress

Fri, 31 May 2013 09:13:04 -0400

WTNH8: Two bills aimed at combatting distracted driving are progressing through the Connecticut General Assembly.

Conn. pool safety bill awaits Senate action

Thu, 30 May 2013 18:14:48 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut may soon require public schools to adopt statewide safety standards for swimming pools used in physical education classes,

Senate Sends Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants Bill to Gov’s Desk

Wed, 29 May 2013 09:12:56 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: A bill that would allow undocumented immigrants to apply for a driver’s license received final passage Wednesday night as a group of advocates watched from the Senate balcony.

House Sends Minimum Wage Hike to the Governor

Wed, 29 May 2013 09:13:54 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The House gave final passage Wednesday to legislation raising the state minimum wage to $9 an hour over the next two years.

Malloy signs new Conn. alert system into law

Wed, 29 May 2013 09:57:39 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has signed into law a new alert system that notifies the public when a law enforcement officer is killed, seriously injured or missing and a suspect is at large and considered a threat.

Slower rollout for education reforms approved by Senate

Wed, 29 May 2013 09:11:19 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: With thousands of students each year showing up for the fourth grade still struggling to read, legislators last year celebrated passage of a reform package that required statewide reading intervention and improvement plans -- the top priority of the legislature’s Black and Puerto Rican Caucus.

Conn. to enforce rules for local agriculture

Wed, 29 May 2013 09:22:33 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut is stepping up inspection and enforcement of its "Connecticut Grown" program of locally grown food.

Mental Health Team Hits The Road To Help Youth In Crisis

Tue, 28 May 2013 12:24:38 -0400

CT Health I-Team: Ten-year-old Joey Smith shared a celebratory high-five with Heather Kunkel, a mental health professional who was visiting the boy’s Thomaston home. “Things are great, spectacular even,” he said, as the two chatted at the kitchen table.

Dredging plans are moving forward

Tue, 28 May 2013 09:33:50 -0400

Mystic River Press: Plans to dredge two inlets in the Stonington-Groton area are progressing, even despite a limp economy and federal and state budget deficits.

Three Connecticut Students Compete In National Spelling Bee

Tue, 28 May 2013 16:09:06 -0400

Hartford Courant: After correctly spelling words like "dervish", "tritium" and "rubicelle" in regional competitions, three Connecticut students earned themselves tickets to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee beginning Tuesday in National Harbor, Md.

Connecticut Offers $5 Million In School Safety Grants After Sandy Hook

Tue, 28 May 2013 09:41:21 -0400

Stamford Daily Voice: Schools in Connecticut, including those in Fairfield County, can apply for part of $5 million in grants from the state to improve school security in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

Leasing The Sun: Solar Panels For The Rest Of Us

Fri, 24 May 2013 09:34:03 -0400

Hartford Courant: The same pathway that has put many in the seat of a new car — the lease — is taking off as a financial vehicle for homeowners who don't have tens of thousands of dollars sitting around to buy a rooftop solar-panel system outright.

Malloy, Larson announce manufacturing initiative

Fri, 24 May 2013 09:52:42 -0400

WTNH8: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Congressman John Larson are announcing a new manufacturing jobs initiative that will bring together state government, businesses and colleges.

Senate OKs bill to raise minimum wage

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:56:36 -0400

The Day: The Senate voted 21-15 to raise the hourly minimum wage to $8.70 from $8.25 on Jan. 1, 2014, and to $9 from $8.70 by Jan. 1, 2015.

CT auto glass steering bill moves to Malloy's hand

Thu, 23 May 2013 12:20:07 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: A Connecticut bill that would expand a ban on steering by auto damage appraisers to include glass repairs is moving to the governor's desk, The Associated Press reports.

Connecticut Senate passes additional Newtown-related bills

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:14:14 -0400

New Haven Register: Connecticut lawmakers on Thursday began building on a package of reforms the General Assembly passed in April that addressed the Newtown school shooting, requiring annual firearms safety training for armed security in local schools and improvements in mental health services for children.

Undocumented could get driver’s licenses

Fri, 24 May 2013 10:26:34 -0400

Connecticut Post: Sen. Andres Ayala, D-Bridgeport, a chief proponent of the legislation who continued work on the bill after its apparent late-March death in the Transportation Committee, said Wednesday night that it would finally allow people living "in the shadows" to obtain legal licenses.

Bill expands absentee voting for overseas military

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:17:26 -0400

NECN: Connecticut's Senate has approved a proposal that could pave the way for electronic voting in future elections.

Connecticut Honors Its War Dead At Capitol Ceremony

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:51:31 -0400

Hartford Courant: Photographs of 63 men and women from Connecticut who were killed in Iraq and Afghanistan hang in the underground passage between the Legislative Office Building and the state Capitol.

Senate adopts measure to coordinate care for mentally ill children

Thu, 23 May 2013 21:03:29 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: The state Senate unanimously adopted a measure Thursday aimed at improving coordination between a wide array of caregivers and support services for children with mental illness.

Gerratana announces plan to require labels for food containing GMOs

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:55:39 -0400

New Britain Herald: State Sen. Terry Gerratana, D-New Britain, announced her plan to bring a bipartisan bill before the state Senate this week that requires all food containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to carry a label identifying them as such. Just a few hours later she led passage of that bill with an overwhelming vote of 35-1. It now move to the state House of Representatives.

Post-Sandy, State Parks Ready For Memorial Day Weekend

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:53:33 -0400

Hartford Courant: The first summer season since storm Sandy kicks off on Memorial Day weekend, and the state's parks are ready, a state spokesman said Thursday.

100 Anniversary of Connecticut State Parks

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:52:24 -0400

Hartford Courant: A look back over the years of the state parks in Connecticut.

House Gives Tanning Ban Final Passage

Thu, 23 May 2013 21:00:22 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: A bill that would create an outright ban on tanning bed use by youth under age 17 passed the House on Thursday by a 117-21 vote, sending the legislation to the governor’s desk.

House Votes Unanimously To Strengthen State’s Racial Profiling Law; Already Passed Senate

Thu, 23 May 2013 15:09:28 -0400

Capitol Watch: The state House of Representatives granted final legislative approval Thursday to strengthen the state’s racial profiling law by adding more police departments to monitor the race of drivers who are stopped by officers.

House Green Lights Driver’s Licenses For Undocumented Immigrants

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:02:32 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Connecticut voters may not be ready, but that didn’t stop the House from pushing forward with a vote on a bill that would give undocumented immigrants the ability to obtain a driver’s license.

Bullying forum planned at Conn. Capitol

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:03:49 -0400

WTNH8: Students, researchers, educators and government leaders are gathering at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford to discuss ways of addressing cyberbullying and bullying in schools.

School Pool Safety Bill Clears House In 140-0 Vote; Senate Next

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:20:42 -0400

Hartford Courant: Prompted by recent drowning deaths of students in public schools, the state House of Representatives on Wednesday unanimously approved bipartisan legislation to increase safety in swimming pools.

Senate Approves Bill Requiring GMO Labeling 35-1

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:19:28 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Connecticut business owners, legislators, farmers, and residents rallied outside the capitol Tuesday morning to press state legislators to move on a bill that would require labels on genetically modified foods.

EDITORIAL: Adding Hydropower To State Energy Mix Makes Sense

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:22:24 -0400

Hartford Courant: A good bill to get more clean energy into Connecticut has been held up in the House. That's too bad. The House should pass the bill, which has already passed the Senate. It would likely lower Connecticut's sky-high electric rates while decreasing the state's reliance on fossil fuels.

Conn. regionalism panel to release recommendations

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:24:00 -0400

WTNH8: A bipartisan legislative panel that's been charged with finding ways to help Connecticut cities and towns reduce their costs is releasing a list of recommendations to the full General Assembly.

Advocates, Newtown Moms Champion Mental Health Reforms For Children

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:59:05 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Newtown mothers joined lawmakers and advocates Monday to support legislation that would streamline mental health services for children.

Health Technology Park Could Create Thousands of Jobs

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:58:12 -0400

Hartford Courant: A $368 million health technology park — anchored by a cancer treatment center — could create as many as 2,500 jobs to north central Connecticut in the next five years, the project’s developers say.

Advocates, Newtown Moms Champion Mental Health Reforms For Children

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:58:32 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Newtown mothers joined lawmakers and advocates Monday to support legislation that would streamline mental health services for children.

Bartolomeo touts importance of Blue Alert system

Sun, 19 May 2013 08:53:30 -0400

Middletown Press: State Sen. Dante Bartolomeo, D-Meriden, last week joined a unanimous and bipartisan Senate vote to create a new public alert system that can help aid in the capture of dangerous suspects and potentially save lives.

State Commissioners Lead 'Bike to Work' from West Hartford

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:44:38 -0400

West Hartford Patch: This year the crowd of bicyclists heading from West Hartford to Hartford on Bike to Work Day included not only Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Dan Esty, who participated for the third time, but several other state commissioners as well.

Mental Health First Aid Training Program Created In Response To Newtown

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:10:30 -0400

Hartford Courant: A new state program will train people who frequently work with children and adolescents how best to recognize and respond to mental disorders.

State Senate Adopts New Rules on Teen Tanning

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:04:29 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Senate unanimously passed a bill that places strict new limits on the use of tanning beds by teenagers.

Capitol event shines spotlight on manufacturing

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:14:47 -0400

New Britain Herald: From chocolates to jet engines; from pasta to submarines, Connecticut’s manufacturing sector was on display Wednesday at the state Capitol.

Legislators Mandate Mattress Recycling, House Also Sets Restrictions On Tanning Beds

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:03:38 -0400

Hartford Courant: Connecticut would become the first state in the nation to mandate the recycling of mattresses, whose disposal has become an ongoing problem in major cities.

Benefits for gay vets bill moves to Conn. governor

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:00:24 -0400

WTNH8: A Connecticut bill that would restore state benefits to gay and lesbian veterans discharged under the U.S. military's former "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy is moving to the governor's desk.

Grant Aids Community Organizations Hire Foreclosure Prevention Specialists

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:19:17 -0400

Hartford Courant: A $2 million grant will help two community-based organizations in Connecticut expand their services to homeowners facing foreclosure.

Mattress recycling bill moves to Conn. governor

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:01:07 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut lawmakers are sending to the governor a bill that would create a recycling program for old mattresses.

Brisk Hiring in April, But Long Way To Go

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:31:26 -0400

Hartford Courant: Connecticut’s employers hired briskly in April, as both private companies and government employers added positions, for a combined total of 6,300 new jobs.

CT To Become First In Nation To Mandate Mattress Recycling; Growing Problem in Cities

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:15:11 -0400

Hartford Courant: Connecticut would become the first state in the nation to mandate the recycling of mattresses, whose disposal has become an ongoing problem in major cities.

Bill modifies traffic stop collection requirements

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:32:16 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut lawmakers are considering a bill that requires police officers to record additional details of their traffic stops.

Compromise reached to provide oversight to university spending

Wed, 15 May 2013 11:24:39 -0400

CT MirrorDemocratic Senators have decided they do want to hold hearings after all to vet the budgets of the state's public colleges and universities -- kind of.

Bill would let judges stop nuisance businesses

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:28:18 -0400

Connecticut Post: State judges could close businesses deemed public nuisances, such as illegal massage parlors and bars with multiple instances of drug sales or firearms violations, under legislation that was approved Wednesday in the House of Representatives.

Read more: http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Bill-would-let-judges-stop-nuisance-businesses-4520181.php#ixzz2TShklG7O

Free dental clinic organizers looking to reach smaller cities

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:29:48 -0400

CT Mirror: The dentists who run the annual Connecticut Mission of Mercy try to give each part of the state a chance to host the massive free dental clinic.

Bill puts bite on Meriden landlords with bedbugs

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:27:17 -0400

Record Journal: Landlords would be required to pay for inspection within five days of being alerted by a tenant of a bedbug problem under legislation that passed the Senate.

Mission of Mercy dental clinic to be announced

Wed, 15 May 2013 08:59:19 -0400

WTNH8: State and local officials are welcoming the Connecticut Mission of Mercy back to the state for the 6th annual free dental clinic.

Our View: Entrepreneurial spirit is on display

Tue, 14 May 2013 09:00:33 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Connecticut craft beer brewers, wholesalers, retailers and restaurants are celebrating Connecticut Beer Week this week.

CT residents encouraged to share a ride

Tue, 14 May 2013 10:39:54 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The state Department of Transportation is urging Connecticut commuters to find alternatives to driving solo, The Associated Press reports.

State Drops Plans For State Police Gun Range In Glastonbury

Tue, 14 May 2013 10:32:59 -0400

Hartford Courant: A new, state-of-the-art firearms training facility remains a top priority for the state, but it won't be built in Meshomasic State Forest.

Manufacturers seek break on taxes to spur investment

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:13:47 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut manufacturers are pushing for state and federal tax breaks so they can invest more of their earnings into better equipment, jobs, and expansions.

Breaking ground at Steel Point

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:10:00 -0400

WTNH8: Ground was broken Monday on a major development in Bridgeport, that's been years in the making.

North Haven gets $194K for environmental probe of former Circuit-Wise land

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:16:55 -0400

New Haven Register: North Haven will share in more than $6.5 million in grants and loans devoted to environmental cleanups at eight brownfields sites around the state, Connecticut officials said Monday.

Dukakis Takes Bus To Hartford To Pitch National Popular Vote

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:00:50 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Former Massachusetts governor and one-time presidential candidate Michael Dukakis visited the state Capitol on Monday to lobby Connecticut lawmakers on National Popular Vote legislation.

Air traffic controllers need more than reprieve

Mon, 13 May 2013 08:56:46 -0400

Newstimes: Since flight patterns for the three major New York City airports have shifted over western Connecticut in recent years, Danbury Municipal Airport needs air traffic controllers more than ever, according to one official.

Raising Adam Lanza

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:50:21 -0400

Four Corners: Via ABC-Australia, Kerry O'Brien speaks to State Senator, Donald Williams, who led the push for greater gun control in Connecticut.

Gerratana proposes cultural training for health care workers

Sat, 11 May 2013 09:12:40 -0400

New Britain Herald: State Sen. Terry Gerratana, D-New Britain, has proposed a bill that will require health professionals to take cultural competency courses in order to renew their license.

State breweries launch promo campaign

Sat, 11 May 2013 09:15:34 -0400

Connecticut Post: From Stamford up to Granby and as far east as Pawcatuck, microbreweries that make specialty craft beers are putting Connecticut on beer-drinkers' maps.

Federal cuts may gut food aid for seniors

Fri, 10 May 2013 09:25:01 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Cathy Osten, D-Sprague, said local lawmakers are committed to the preservation of funding for Meals on Wheels and other programs that benefit the needy.

States seek to fix gun background check backlog

Fri, 10 May 2013 09:39:01 -0400

WTNH8: State officials are setting aside millions of dollars to address backlogs in background checks that have soared since the December school shooting in Newtown, Conn.

European Brand, Manufacturing In Connecticut, An Example Of State Incentives Success

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:09:19 -0400

Hartford Courant: Thule, the Swedish outdoors equipment company, was drawn to a hilltop industrial park here two decades ago by the area's skilled labor, proximity to East Coast airports and mere six-hour time difference with the company's main offices.

EDITORIAL: Many reasons to fix driver's license law

Fri, 10 May 2013 14:05:40 -0400

The Day: Connecticut should join a handful of other states and change its motor vehicle laws so that undocumented immigrants can obtain driver's licenses, and in so doing gain eligibility to register their vehicles.

EPA awards $2.6M for CT brownfields’ cleanup

Fri, 10 May 2013 12:33:01 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded $2.6 million to seven Connecticut agencies to clean up brownfields, part of nearly $5 million awarded in the state in the past two weeks.

Malloy Defends Small Business Loan Program

Thu, 09 May 2013 16:11:57 -0400

CT New Junkie: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy proclaimed that his "Small Business Express Program" was a success and that the closure rate of businesses that receive the low-interest loans is much smaller than small businesses that don’t receive assistance.

CT Health Centers Eligible For $1.5 Million To Help Enroll Uninsured

Thu, 09 May 2013 14:04:14 -0400

Hartford Courant: More than $1.5 million in federal funds could help community health centers in Connecticut enroll the uninsured in affordable health insurance coverage, according to an announcement today.

First Fuel Cell Dropped Into Bridgeport Power Park

Thu, 09 May 2013 09:33:16 -0400

Hartford Courant: The fuel cell floated off the truck rig Wednesday morning, its massive weight aided by the skyward pull of a crane.

Senate Sends Referendum Question to Voters in 2014

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:04:28 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Senate approved a resolution Wednesday evening to ask voters in 2014 to amend the state constitution to give the legislature more authority over Connecticut’s election policies.

Price-Gouging Bill Clears State Senate

Thu, 09 May 2013 09:01:35 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Senate on Wednesday passed a bill that would outlaw price-gouging following major storms.

Bill Would Grant Honorary High School Diplomas to Vietnam Veterans

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:00:29 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Senate is poised to unanimously approve a bill that would grant high school diplomas to Vietnam-era veterans who dropped out of school to serve.

Conn. bill bars price gouging for storm services

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:40:00 -0400

WTNH8: State lawmakers are moving to close a loophole in state law, discovered following some of our recent extreme weather.

Bill requires Conn. school guards to be certified

Wed, 08 May 2013 11:01:16 -0400

Newsday: Connecticut lawmakers are considering legislation that would require any armed security guard working in a school to be certified.

Local students have work on display in ‘Art at the Capitol’

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:37:40 -0400

Reminder News: On Thursday, May 16, students from the 3rd Senatorial District (which includes East Hartford, East Windsor, Ellington and South Windsor) will be honored at a reception for their participation in the Art at the Capitol program.

Conn. officials to discuss emergency responses

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:33:48 -0400

WTNH8: More than 400 state and local officials are slated to attend a conference in Cromwell to discuss responding to emergencies and natural disasters.

CTNext Launches Startup Map

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:38:19 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: CTNext, a public/private partnership helping the high tech startup community in the state, launched an interactive map last week to help connect businesses and organizations in the state’s startup community.

State Announces Initiative To Improve Mental Health Reporting To NICS

Tue, 07 May 2013 09:28:11 -0400

Hartford Courant: Before Seung-Hui Cho killed 32 people and wounded 17 more at Virginia Tech in 2007, he was able to purchase firearms because his mental health history had not been reported to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

House Approves Automobile Glass Bill In Attempt To Help Small Businesses

Tue, 07 May 2013 09:29:18 -0400

Hartford Courant: When you’re driving down the road behind a dump truck, sometimes a rock kicks up and bangs into your windshield.

Probate Court Creates Database of People Ineligible to Own Guns

Tue, 07 May 2013 17:11:09 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The state probate court administrator this summer expects to complete a database of people who have had their eligibility to own guns revoked by the courts for mental health reasons in the last 14 years.

After Years of Defeats, Immigrants Win Big State Victories in 2013

Tue, 07 May 2013 12:23:51 -0400

Stateline.org: States this year are passing a slew of immigrant-friendly laws, a major change from the strict enforcement measures Arizona and other states approved just a few years ago.

State Kicks In $1 Million For New Britain Jobs Training

Mon, 06 May 2013 09:04:26 -0400

Hartford Courant: With $1 million in new state bonding and $4 million in federal aid, three agencies are planning to build a job training center to serve people in the low-income Mount Pleasant housing complex.

Connecticut Lags In Mental Health Screening For Children

Mon, 06 May 2013 09:17:10 -0400

Hartford Courant: Selenia Velez remembers the near-daily phone calls from the pre-school, alerting her that her 2-year-old son had acted out aggressively and needed to be picked up immediately.

Congressional Medal of Honor Society to honor slain Newtown educators with civilian award

Mon, 06 May 2013 09:11:18 -0400

Washington Post: The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is in Newtown, Conn., to honor six educators killed in the December elementary school massacre with its highest civilian award.

Weighing IDs For Illegal Immigrants

Sun, 05 May 2013 09:15:37 -0400

Wall Street Journal: Connecticut Democrats are rallying around a plan that would allow people who are in the U.S. illegally to get driver's licenses, making the state one of several to consider the idea this year.

EDITORIAL: Higher Minimum Is No Threat To Businesses, Jobs

Fri, 03 May 2013 09:31:20 -0400

Hartford Courant: Although decades of research indicate that raising the minimum wage does not adversely affect employment, this untrue claim is recycled whenever the Connecticut General Assembly considers providing working people with a small wage increase.

Largest fuel cell generation plant in N.A. dedicated in Bridgeport

Sat, 04 May 2013 13:07:37 -0400

Connecticut Post: The largest fuel cell electric generating plant in North America is going up on the city's West End and officials said the $65 million, 14.9 megawatt plant will supply about 15,000 homes with clean energy by year's end.

Some say CTfastrak will be first step to city’s renewal

Sat, 04 May 2013 09:23:14 -0400

New Britain Herald: New Britain state Sen. Terry Gerratana likes the idea that the transit system will connect riders from New Britain, Berlin and beyond to the UConn Health Center and Jackson Laboratories in Farmington.

Why Next Generation Connecticut makes sense

Fri, 03 May 2013 09:57:57 -0400

Newstimes: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's proposed investment in a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) expansion at UConn makes perfect sense.

Newtown Officers Want Long-Term PTSD Coverage

Fri, 03 May 2013 17:19:22 -0400

NBC Connecticut: Sergeant David Kullgren's life forever changed as a result of one of the darkest days in Connecticut history.

Statewide Paint Recycling Program Approved

Fri, 03 May 2013 17:14:18 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Department for Energy and Environmental Protection announced Friday the official approval of a statewide recycling program for unused and leftover paint.

Superstorm Sandy rebuilding task force tours Conn.

Fri, 03 May 2013 10:36:26 -0400

Associated Press: Officials are touring the Connecticut shoreline with the leader of the Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force to view storm damage and discuss the rebuilding and federal reimbursement process.

U.S. Added 165,000 Jobs in April

Fri, 03 May 2013 08:58:47 -0400

New York Times: The United States economy created 165,000 jobs in April, slightly more than forecasters had estimated, pushing the unemployment rate down modestly to 7.5 percent, the government reported Friday.

Conn. bill for uniform financial aid info advances

Thu, 02 May 2013 08:57:33 -0400

WTNH8: A proposal to require Connecticut colleges and universities to supply students with uniform financial aid information has passed in the state House of Representatives.

Conn. bill creates mattress recycling program

Thu, 02 May 2013 08:56:38 -0400

WTNH8: A bill that would create a recycling program for old mattresses is moving through the Connecticut General Assembly.

Conn. renewable energy plan passes first test

Wed, 01 May 2013 17:37:36 -0400

Newsday: New rules for renewable energy use in Connecticut passed their first big test Wednesday when the state Senate approved legislation proposed by the governor to boost hydropower from Canada.

Oregon Lawmakers OK Drivers Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants

Wed, 01 May 2013 15:59:03 -0400

Hartford Courant: Oregon is poised to become the latest state to permit undocumented immigrants to obtain state-issued drivers licenses.

Supporters of higher minimum wage rally in Hartford

Wed, 01 May 2013 17:39:31 -0400

The Day: Legislators and members of the Connecticut Council of Clergy rallied outside the state Capitol Wednesday in support of the bill would raise the minimum wage to $9 an hour from $8.25 on Jan. 1, 2014 and to $9.75 an hour on Jan. 1, 2015.

Malloy, educators discuss security in schools

Wed, 01 May 2013 15:38:02 -0400

WTNH8: In the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy, school security remains an ongoing concern for many communities.

Conn. clergy want lawmakers to raise minimum wage

Wed, 01 May 2013 09:34:46 -0400

WTNH8: The Connecticut Council of Clergy is urging state lawmakers to increase Connecticut's minimum wage.

Transportation Safety Research Center Established at UConn

Wed, 01 May 2013 09:30:45 -0400

Mansfield-Storrs Patch: A newly created Connecticut Transportation Safety Research Center at UConn is dramatically improving the collection and processing of car crash data and will serve as an important resource for law enforcement, state residents, policy makers, and others, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said Monday.

Port authority closer to launch

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:26:28 -0400

Connecticut Post: A proposal to create a statewide port authority that would take over the operations of Connecticut's deep-water harbors in Bridgeport, New Haven and New London moved one step closer to reality Tuesday.

State Bond Commission awards $47K to Norwalk Senior Center to replace flooring

Wed, 01 May 2013 10:25:00 -0400

The Hour: The Norwalk Senior Center has received a $47,750 grant from Hartford to replace flooring at its facility on Allen Road.

Sandy dumped 11B gallons of sewage in waterways

Thu, 30 May 2013 09:38:08 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Superstorm Sandy released 11 billion gallons of sewage from East Coast treatment plants into bodies of water from Washington, D.C., to Connecticut, The Associated Press reports.

Prague pushes to keep senior safety bill alive

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:20:51 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: The state’s newly confirmed Commissioner on Aging is calling for lawmakers to find ways for a bill aimed at keeping sex offenders away from senior citizens to be prevented from dying in committee.

Jackson Lab trial to test Hartford patients' tumors in mice

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:19:35 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: The Jackson Laboratory will team up with Connecticut Children's Medical Center and Hartford Hospital for a clinical trial of "cancer avatars" that attempts to grow human patients' tumors in mice to determine the best therapies for each patient's disease.

Glastonbury-Rocky Hill Ferry's Opening Pushed Back 10 Days Due To Mechanical Issues

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:14:24 -0400

Hartford Courant: The good news is the ferry that carries riders across the Connecticut River between Glastonbury and Rocky Hill is getting an upgrade. The bad news is the ferry won't be ready to begin its 358th season until May 10.

Licenses for immigrants has support in Conn.

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:10:02 -0400

The Boston Globe: A proposal in Connecticut to expand access to driver’s licenses to immigrants regardless of their legal status has received the support of the governor, legislative leaders, and mayors from across the state.

Towns Celebrate Opening of New Regional Animal Shelter

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:09:01 -0400

South Windsor Patch: Lost, stray or unwanted animals in Manchester, South Windsor and East Hartford have a new home, thanks to the opening of the Tyler Regional Animal Care Shelter (TRACKS).

$2M for Hartford's Capewell brownfield cleanup

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:28:36 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Hartford's former Capewell Horse Nail Factory is getting $2 million from the state to continue cleanup of the brownfield site just south of downtown, authorities say.

iConnect To Bring Businesses To Downtown Hartford

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:16:50 -0400

Hartford Courant: At least four vacant downtown storefronts will get facelifts and new tenants — including a pet store that sells locally sourced dog and cat food, a pop-up museum and a print shop — as part of the city's iConnect initiative.

How Connecticut Is Fighting for Small Business

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:16:05 -0400

The Street: Connecticut is home to big corporations such as General Electric (GE_), United Technologies (UTX_), Hartford Financial (HIG_), Aetna (AET_) and Xerox (XER), among others, but small businesses account for about 93% of the state's employers.

Connecticut Democrats renew license push for immigrants

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:58:58 -0400

New Haven Register: Democratic leaders in the House and Senate are continuing to push for issuance of driver’s licenses for the large undocumented population in the state and are expressing confidence it can advance this session.

Malloy administration proposes tighter pollution standards

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:08:04 -0400

Republican American: The Malloy administration is proposing tighter pollution standards that could force substantially more properties into state cleanup programs.

Sprague's Fusion Paperboard gets $3 million state loan

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 10:10:38 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Sprague’s largest employer and biggest taxpayer will remain in town for at least another 10 years, and it plans to add dozens of new workers to accommodate a planned expansion using state loan money.

GMO food labeling legislation heading to Connecticut House

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 10:02:19 -0400

New Haven Register: A bill requiring labeling of “genetically engineered foods,” such as corn that produces its own pesticide, is making its way to the state House.

CT awards UConn $20M to outfit Tech Park

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 09:09:16 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's flagship state university on Friday drew $20 million in state bond funding to outfit its planned technology park with instruments and other equipment, authorities say.

State Clean Energy Study Changes Look At Hydropower And Biomass

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 09:26:49 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state's energy department released a final version of its study recommending changes to how Connecticut supports clean energy Friday after weeks of public debate on the plan that initially blazed a wide path for large-scale hydropower to be included in the state's portfolio of renewables.

CT bonds $11.7M for 5 towns' transit work

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:10:27 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's bond panel allocated $11.7 million for rail, bridge and road improvements in five communities that will generate thousands of construction and related jobs, authorities say.

Fashion, Function Spell Success For Cancer Survivor - Business Benefits From State Small Business Program

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:29:50 -0400

Hartford Courant: A glance at Susan Callison's outfit shows nothing out of the ordinary other than black sleeves that could easily be her style statement, and a sort of half-glove that wraps around her right thumb.

Gov. Malloy To Announce Support For Minimum Wage Increase

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:26:34 -0400

Hartford Courant: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy Friday will announce he supports raising the state minimum wage to $9 over the next two years.

Legislature Considers Bill Of Rights For Homeless

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:55:01 -0400

Hartford Courant: A proposal to enshrine the rights of homeless people into law is moving swiftly through the General Assembly, putting Connecticut at the vanguard of a growing national movement.

Wyman to tour Conn. women-owned businesses

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:48:18 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman is touring women-owned small businesses that have received financial assistance from the state's Small Business Express program.

Dance to raise funds for Puerto Rican Parade

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:07:10 -0400

Connecticut Post: When founder Millie Maldonado took back the reins of the Puerto Rican Parade of Fairfield County last year -- just in time for the annual event's 20th anniversary -- she vowed to bring the organization back to its roots.

Building comes down in Bridgeport blight fight

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:02:12 -0400

WTNH8: Heavy equipment will rolling onto Stratford Avenue this morning in an effort to fight blight. News 8's Jeff Valin reports from outside a building many consider an eyesore to talk about its ominous fate.

Purple Heart Homes volunteers hold 'Demo Day' in Manchester

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:53:30 -0400

Reminder News: Volunteers in Manchester were ahead of schedule as they stripped down a house that will be renovated and donated to a wounded veteran through the nonprofit organization Purple Heart Homes.

Classroom Teaches A Lesson In Mental Health Treatment

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:46:12 -0400

Hartford Courant: As a "classroom interventionist," Stephanie Galluzo's job is to help students who act out in class to settle down and refocus.

Conn. bill restores state benefits to gay vets

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:45:06 -0400

NECN: Connecticut lawmakers are seeking to restore state benefits to gay and lesbian veterans discharged under the U.S. military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.

EDITORIAL: State Should Make Ambitious UConn Investment

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:51:21 -0400

Hartford Courant: Connecticut has long been generous with its flagship university, and the love has been returned in increasing prestige, a smarter student body and more research dollars coming in.

Pupil-designed E-House opens in Groton

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:49:23 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Ella Grasso Technical High School in Groton unveiled its newly constructed E-House Tuesday.

Husky coaches to be inducted into Hall of Fame

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:41:24 -0400

Newsday: Former UConn men's basketball coach Jim Calhoun and UConn women's basketball coach Geno Auriemma are joining the likes of Mark Twain, Noah Webster and Jackie Robinson in the Connecticut Hall of Fame.

Propane-equipped vehicles demo at CT Capitol

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:47:48 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Proponents of propane autogas, a type of propane gas used to fuel cars and trucks, are bringing some propane-powered vehicles to the state Capitol, The Associated Press reports.

Company Expansion in Wethersfield Will Create and Retain 274 Jobs In Five Years

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:21:48 -0400

Rocky Hill Patch: Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced $5 million in loans to support the expansion of three Connecticut small businesses, two in Wethersfield. The funding will help businesses in Wethersfield and Sprague expand operations, retain 156 jobs, and create 118 new jobs.

Hold owners responsible for blight

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:07:08 -0400

Connecticut Post: It may not be the sexiest of issues, but make no mistake: eradicating the blighted properties that mar the face of the city of Bridgeport is a vital pursuit.

EDITORIAL: Sending kids to 'wrong' public school is not a crime

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:06:51 -0400

New Haven Register: Doing everything you can to get a child into a public school where they have a chance to succeed isn’t a crime. It’s being a good parent or grandparent.

Fusion Paperboard to receive $3 million state loan

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:04:59 -0400

The Day: Sprague-based Fusion Paperboard is expected to receive a $3 million loan from the state to repair its paper machine and General Electric turbine, according to the State Bond Commission’s agenda.

Middlefield residents learn to identify invasive plants

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:11:58 -0400

Middletown Press: Residents are hoping to find a solution to the invasive weeds that have taken over Lake Beseck and other areas of the town.

Conn. panel poised to fund Superstorm repairs

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:38:09 -0400

WTNH8: The State Bond Commission is expected to approve funding for repairs and improvements to Connecticut recreation and maintenance facilities damaged by Superstorm Sandy.

Bringing local food to schools: a hard nut to crack

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:58:58 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: The cafeteria at John Winthrop Middle School is a picture of healthy fresh food. On this pasta Wednesday, the special is homemade lasagna with tomato or a vegetable-spiked meat sauce. Gorgeous green salads with precisely cut grape tomatoes and cucumbers are lined up for quick grabbing during blitzing-fast lunch periods.

Justices Hear Arguments in Death Penalty Repeal

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:27:08 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: If Connecticut’s Supreme Court finds the prospective nature of last year’s capital punishment repeal unconstitutional, then it should throw “the baby out with the bathwater” and strike down the entire law, a state’s attorney argued Tuesday.

CT program helps electronics recyclers avoid downturn

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 16:29:38 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's statewide recycling program has helped e-recycling firms avoid major issues facing the industry, particularly as their revenues dip with the fall of worldwide commodity prices.

Conn. to break ground on new veterans memorial

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:34:22 -0400

Associated Press: State officials and military veterans will be gathering in Hartford to break ground on the new Connecticut State Veterans Memorial.

On the rise in Connecticut Video gaming education

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 16:33:11 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's portion of gaming industry revenues currently amounts to nearly $50 million a year according to the most recent study, "Video Games in the 21st Century: The 2010 Report," released by the Entertainment Software Association.

Hearing planned on Connecticut medical marijuana rules

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:04:21 -0400

WTNH: The state Department of Consumer Protection has scheduled a hearing on proposed regulations for Connecticut's new medical marijuana law.

Gini's House: Renovation begins for supportive housing in Norwalk

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:01:41 -0400

The Hour: Officials gathered on Elmcrest Terrace on Friday for a $7.2 million renovation that will convert a vacant building into permanent supportive housing for persons with addictions and mental-health problems.

CT asks how to spend $72M Sandy funds

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:24:20 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut has a $71.8 million Storm Sandy treasure chest for which it is soliciting public feedback about how best to use the money to rebuild communities most impacted by last fall's destructive gale and prevent future damage.

Lawmakers put Malloy's car tax repeal plan in neutral

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 16:49:48 -0400

CT Mirror: The legislature's tax-writing panel put Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's proposed car tax repeal on the shelf Friday, but leaders insisted the concept would be revisited before the full legislature adjourns on June 5.

Legislature's budget matches Malloy's bottom line, reverses him on details

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 16:49:11 -0400

CT Mirror: The state legislature's budget-writing panel will maintain a massive cut to hospitals but reverse a controversial reduction to health care for poor working parents in a $43.9 billion, two-year budget that effectively matched the spending level sought by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy.

Stamford lawmakers talk budget, upgrades to UConn campus

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:19:27 -0400

The Stamford Times: While local lawmakers are on board with the governor’s proposal for UConn Stamford, they said at the forum that they hope legislators from other areas do not look at the proposed expansion just as an improvement for Stamford.

Conn. budget committees expected to vote on plans

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:19:08 -0400

WTNH8: The General Assembly's two budget committees are expected to vote out spending and tax plans, setting the stage for full-fledged budget negotiations between lawmakers and Gov. Dannel P. Malloy.

Connecticut State Sen. Martin Looney leads passage of New Haven liquor permit renewal program

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:29:53 -0400

New Haven Register: Senate Majority Leader Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven, lead passage of the extension of a pilot program in New Haven which requires anyone who files for a liquor permit renewal to give written notice to the police chief, according to a statement.

Bill: Give benefits to discharged gay vets

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:28:37 -0400

Connecticut Post: Veterans who were dishonorably discharged under the U.S. military's former "Don't Ask Don't Tell" policy against homosexuals would be eligible for state benefits, including local property-tax breaks, under a bill scheduled for debate Thursday in the Senate.Update: The Senate canceled the debate on Thursday and will reschedule it at a later time.

Scientists: Superstorm Sandy jolted United States

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:29:07 -0400

Newsday: Superstorm Sandy didn't just rattle the East Coast, it also jiggled the ground across the country ever so slightly, scientists reported Thursday.

Conn. bill gives intern preference to foster kids

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:07:35 -0400

WTNH8: Former foster children once in the care of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families would receive preference for state agency internships under a bill moving through the General Assembly.

Senate Unanimously Approves Edith Prague As Commissioner On Aging

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:56:39 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Senate voted unanimously Thursday to approve the nomination of Democrat Edith Prague as the state’s new aging commissioner.

Legislators vote to remove governor's power to appoint college president

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 17:20:00 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: The General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a bill that removes the governor's authority to appoint the president of the state's largest public college system.

As Seas Rise, So Do Homes

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:46:35 -0400

Branford Eagle: Things are looking up—literally—for the DeRosa family, whose waterfront home in Short Beach was damaged by both Tropical Storm Irene and Super Storm Sandy.

NEAT farmer's market getting agricultural grant

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:39:23 -0400

Middletown Press: The city’s North End Action Team and Haddam’s Eastern Connecticut Resource Conservation and Development group will receive money from agriculture grants, officials said Wednesday.

House adopts amendment to expand absentee voting

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:19:50 -0400

WTNH8: The state House of Representatives has voted to place a question on the 2014 ballot giving voters the option to expand absentee voting.

Hartford Hospital To Run On Fuel Cell By End Of Year

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:21:53 -0400

Hartford Courant: FuelCell Energy on Wednesday said it sold a power unit that will supply power and heat to Hartford Hospital by the end of the year.

Proposal would decriminalize sending children to the wrong school

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 09:13:43 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Calling the practice of arresting parents who send their child to the wrong school unconstitutional, the Senate chairman of legislature's Judiciary Committee and the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus are calling for change.

CT awards $10M for brownfield cleanup

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:06:23 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The state's economic development agency is awarding more than $10.5 million to clean up nine former mill and factory sites in seven Connecticut communities.

Hartford Farmers Market In Line For State Grant For Repairs

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:04:57 -0400

Hartford Courant: The Hartford Regional Market, the largest agricultural distribution facility between Boston and New York, could receive $400,000 from the state for much needed repairs.

Lawmakers approve tenant-landlord deal

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:38:06 -0400

Connecticut Post: Both landlords and tenants would have responsibilities in battling bedbug infestations, under legislation approved Tuesday by the Public Health Committee.

Lawmakers Give UConn Financial Boost

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:20:26 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee approved a 10-year plan Tuesday to borrow more than $1.5 billion to expand the University of Connecticut.

Bill On Juvenile Offenders Advances

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:17:05 -0400

Hartford Courant: A bill that would give juvenile offenders convicted of serious crimes a second chance cleared the legislature's judiciary committee Tuesday.

Guidelines aim to improve teacher preparation

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:41:25 -0400

Connecticut Post: The state Board of Education adopted recommendations Monday aimed at developing stronger teacher preparation programs, calling them an interim step.

Conn. bill requires labeling of chemical BPA

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:33:29 -0400

WTNH8: Connecticut lawmakers are considering a bill that would ban food packaging containing the plastics chemical, bisphenol A, unless the packaging has a clear warning label.

Connecticut bills target human trafficking

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:36:11 -0400

Republican American: Connecticut lawmakers are considering at least three bills that would increase penalties for pimps and "johns," in the state's latest effort to address homegrown human trafficking.

Connecticut tax transparency bill clears first hurdle

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:49:52 -0400

New Haven Register: A bill proposed by state Comptroller Kevin Lembo that would require the state to develop a searchable online database for economic development projects cleared its first hurdle Friday.

Letter: Sen. Stillman praised on school-clinic stand

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:42:52 -0400

The Day: I appreciate that state Sen. Andrea Stillman values how school-based health services support public health and education of our children.

Development zones eyed for smaller CT airports

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:10:03 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: In an effort to boost economic activity, the Connecticut Airport Authority wants to establish development zones around the state's smaller aviation facilities.

Mortgage counseling to be offered in New Haven

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:19:36 -0400

Associated Press: The state of Connecticut is offering help to struggling homeowners with loan modifications, foreclosure prevention, debt management and other issues.

Will The Third Try Be The Charm for Camera Bill?

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:11:16 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: he Judiciary Committee forwarded a bill to the state Senate Friday that would give individuals the ability to bring a civil lawsuit against police officers who interfere with their ability to videotape or photograph officers on the job.

Realtors hope spring stays busy

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 09:24:02 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Real estate agents are expecting an improved spring season after sales of single-family homes in New London and Windham counties surprisingly rose during the first three months of the year amid harsh weather that included a major blizzard.

Ct. weighs electronic voting for military overseas

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 09:40:18 -0400

Newstimes: For American service members overseas, trying to vote can be more of an exercise in bureaucracy than in democracy.

'I Promise This Time There Will Be Change'

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:45:50 -0400

Huffington Post: Last week there was real change in Connecticut. Thanks to determined and strong bipartisan leadership and support, the General Assembly passed one of the nation's strongest state gun violence prevention laws.

12 Year-Old Mobile App Creator Recognized For Helping Disabled

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 09:36:21 -0400

prMac: iSpeak4U LLC. has announced "HandySpeech" recognition by the Connecticut General Assembly.

NoRA Cupcake Van Sweetening Up Glastonbury's Streets

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 09:34:09 -0400

Glastonbury Patch: On Tuesday the Glastonbury Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newest NoRA cupcake van, which offers dozens of different cupcake flavors from its mobile location.

Bill Closing Sexual Assault Loophole Moves Forward

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 15:44:12 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Judiciary Committee approved legislation Friday that would close a loophole in the state’s sexual assault laws for victims with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Conn. bill protects right to record police actions

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:40:03 -0400

WTNH8: A bill before the Connecticut General Assembly would impose a civil liability on police officers who interfere with anyone who attempts to video record or photograph police activity.

Glastonbury Dedicates Planetarium At New Magnet School

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:30:17 -0400

Hartford Courant: After building a $37 million, state-of-the-art magnet school, there's little else to do but reach for the stars.

U.S. Senate Ready to Launch Gun Control Debate

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:56:11 -0400

NBC-Connecticut: Now that two key senators have struck a deal on strengthening background checks, the Senate will vote on Thursday whether to debate the bill

CONGRESS: Bipartisan Bill Would Extend Background Checks To Gun Shows

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:41:04 -0400

NPR: Saying that "this is a start and it's not the end of our work," Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia confirmed Wednesday morning that he and Republican Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania have put together a bipartisan plan that they believe will "keep guns out of dangerous hands."

A New CT Office of Early Childhood?

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 09:49:49 -0400

WNPR: Governor Malloy says a new Office of Early Childhood or OEC, will fundamentally transform how the state helps Connecticut’s children ages zero to five.

Seniors From All Over The State Saw Prague As Their Advocate

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:27:21 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Lawmakers on the Executive and Legislative Nominations Committee highlighted former Sen. Edith Prague’s reputation as an advocate for Connecticut’s seniors during her Tuesday confirmation hearing.

For better mental health coverage, help with the paperwork

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:58:37 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Talk to people involved the mental health system and it won't be long before you hear complaints about the difficulty of getting private insurance to pay for mental health services.

On 50th Anniversary, Women Are Reminded They Have A Long Way To Go

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:59:58 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Tuesday marked the 50th anniversary of the Equal Pay Act, but it also was a reminder that little progress has been made.

Families, Gun Control Advocates Seeking to Switch Momentum To Washington

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 09:17:32 -0400

Hartford Courant: Momentum.That's what gun control advocates are hoping to capitalize on following a rousing speech Monday by President Barack Obama at the University of Hartford.

Healthcare Advocate Saves Consumers $2.54M

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:42:32 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: State Healthcare Advocate Victoria Veltri said her office was able to save Connecticut consumers $2.54 million on the cost of healthcare services, procedures, and claims in just the first quarter of 2013.

Study: CT women-owned businesses up 35 percent

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:58:15 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The number of women-owned businesses in Connecticut increased 35 percent since 1997 and sales at those firms increased 67 percent, according to a census analysis.

Obama Comes To Hartford To Push Gun Control

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:09:49 -0400

Hartford Courant: Using the bully pulpit to urge a response to a tragedy unlike any he has faced in office, President Barack Obama comes to Hartford on Monday in a last-ditch attempt to revive Democrats' faltering efforts to pass stricter federal gun legislation.

Newtown families voice support for gun control

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 09:02:53 -0400

CBS News: Families of Newtown victims want the tragic memory of 12/14 - the date of the Connecticut massacre -- to spur new gun control legislation in the U.S. Scott Pelley reports.

In Connecticut, New Firearms Limits Faced Uphill Fight

Sat, 06 Apr 2013 08:38:43 -0400

New York Times: Almost from the moment that Adam Lanza ended his siege, it seemed that Connecticut, dominated by Democrats and already with some of the nation’s toughest gun laws, would quickly pass sweeping new restrictions on firearms.

Frequently Asked Questions About The State's New Gun Law

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 10:17:28 -0400

Hartford Courant: FAQs regarding Connecticut's new gun laws.

Conn.'s bipartisan gun deal weathered challenges

Sat, 06 Apr 2013 08:49:02 -0400

Record Journal: On March 1, about a week after Gov. Dannel P. Malloy expressed frustration with the General Assembly's pace at addressing the Newtown school shooting and unveiled his own gun control proposals, the top two Senate Democrats surprised their fellow leaders by publicly pressing for a vote no later than March 13.

Region's economy stands to reap benefits

Sat, 06 Apr 2013 13:26:34 -0400

The Day: A National Coast Guard Museum in downtown would be a "long-term, huge economic driver," according to Mayor Daryl Justin Finizio, who cited a study that says the attraction could inject as much as $20 million annually into the region's economy and create hundreds of jobs.

Congress urged to act on federal gun reform

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 09:12:35 -0400

WTNH8: Now that Connecticut has passed some of the toughest gun laws in the country, some Sandy Hook families are calling on Congress today to act on federal gun law reform.

Malloy Signs Gun Control Bill, One Of Strictest In Nation

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:04:09 -0400

Hartford Courant: Flanked by family members of Newtown massacre victims and the legislative leaders who spent months trying to respond to their tragedy, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy signed a sweeping gun-control bill Thursday whose big provisions — such as a strengthened assault weapons ban — took effect with the stroke of his pen.

Pratt To Invest $8 Million In Additive Manufacturing Partnership At UConn

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:21:04 -0400

Hartford Courant: Officials from both plan to announce Friday that they have set up one of the nation's most advanced additive manufacturing centers as the latest puzzle piece in the university's Technology Park.

'Historic' Gun Bill To Become Law In Connecticut

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:15:22 -0400

NPR: Legislators in Connecticut, where 20 children and six educators were killed four months ago in one of the worst mass shootings in the nation's history, approved legislation early Thursday that puts extensive restrictions on the sale of weapons, ammunition and ammunition magazines in the state.

Mental health plan: 'quick fixes' first

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 10:13:47 -0400

Connecticut Post: The mental health provisions embedded in the state's controversial gun legislation offer a mix of long-term solutions and "quick fixes" to address what many view as a broken system.

Read more: http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Mental-health-plan-quick-fixes-first-4409169.php#ixzz2PVJ7Kzyo

School security in gun control law

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:46:58 -0400

Connecticut Post: School safety has not been forgotten in the new gun control law.

House Gives Final Passage To Bipartisan Gun Control Bill

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 08:49:43 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The legislature sent its bipartisan response to the Sandy Hook tragedy to the governor’s desk Thursday morning, enacting strict gun-control legislation and closing the book on months of emotional debate.

How Conn. gun bill compares to new NY, Colo. laws

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:43:27 -0400

WTNH8: Gun control measures proposed in Connecticut after the December massacre in Newtown would be among the strongest such laws in the country.

Comments from Conn. gun law debate

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 09:25:45 -0400

Republican American: Following are comments from Connecticut lawmakers and others concerning the comprehensive legislative package addressing the Newtown school shooting:

State Senate Approves Historic Gun Bill; House Next To Act

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 20:15:02 -0400

Hartford Courant: After a debate that was at moments impassioned and agonized, the state Senate Wednesday evening approved a historic and far-reaching gun-control bill that proponents said was their toughest-in-the-nation response to the Dec. 14 Newtown school massacre.

Connecticut Senate passes bipartisan gun bill, 26-10

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 20:13:45 -0400

CT Mirror: Connecticut's Senate passed a sweeping gun-control bill Wednesday after a six-hour debate that opened with a Democrat recalling the precise moment legislators learned of the slaughter at Sandy Hook and drew to an emotional close with a Republican reading the names of all 26 victims.

Conn. Senate OKs Comprehensive Gun Bill, Sends to House

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 18:59:32 -0400

NBC Connecticut: The Connecticut Senate has approved wide-ranging legislation in response to last year's deadly school shooting in Newtown, including gun control measures that ban the sale of large-capacity ammunition magazines and 100 weapons that previously had been legal.

State Senate Expected To Approve Gun Control Bill Wednesday

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 17:11:28 -0400

Hartford Courant: Sen. Andres Ayala, a freshman Democrat who previously served in the House of Representatives last year, said that gun violence has become all too common in urban neighborhoods where citizens are gunned down on the streets of Bridgeport.

Before a hostile audience, senators open gun debate

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 15:46:40 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Connecticut's Senate opened debate on a sweeping, bipartisan gun-control bill Wednesday with Senate President Pro Tem Donald E. Williams Jr., recalling the precise moment on Dec. 14 that legislators learned that 20 first graders had been slaughtered at Sandy Hook.

Why expanding background checks would, in fact, reduce gun crime

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 16:55:14 -0400

The Washington Post: With Congress set to debate the emerging plan to expand background checks, conservatives and Republicans — and even a few red state Democrats — continue to traffic heavily in deliberate misdirection and distortions about the proposal.

EDITORIAL: Connecticut should be proud of tough gun measures

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:04:37 -0400

West Hartford News: The Connecticut General Assembly did what it seems Congress finds so tough to do: Reach agreement on controversial legislation.

State Senate is debating bill on guns, school security, mental health measures

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 17:33:51 -0400

The Day: The state Senate started discussing its gun control, school safety and mental health bill this afternoon.

Connecticut Prepares For Historic Gun Vote

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 12:35:43 -0400

Hartford Courant: The Connecticut General Assembly is expected to approve a wide-ranging gun control bill Wednesday that will immediately change the way firearms are regulated.

Mental Health Provisions In Gun Bill Called ‘Strong’ By Industry and Advocates

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 12:42:42 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The bill the General Assembly will debate today would require mental health and substance abuse services to be considered “urgent care” and also shortens the review time for service requests from 72 hours to 24 hours.

Report Links High Rates of Gun Violence to Weak State Regulations

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 16:59:38 -0400

The New York Times: Many states with the weakest gun laws have the worst rates of gun violence, ranking high on numerous indicators, like gun homicides and suicides, firearm deaths of children, and killings of law enforcement officers, according to a report to be issued Wednesday by the liberal Center for American Progress.

CHFA awards $7.5M in affordable-housing credits

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:31:27 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The state's housing finance agency is awarding $7.5 million in tax credits to seven affordable-housing developments across Connecticut, including Hartford's Twin Acres and Summit Park, authorities say.

Gov. Malloy Will Sign Bipartisan Gun Bill

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:36:09 -0400

Hartford Courant: Gov. Malloy said Tuesday he intends to sign the bipartisan gun bill legislative leaders negotiated in response to the Newtown massacre.

Obama to promote gun control in CT

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:44:27 -0400

WTNH8: President Barack Obama is planning a trip to Connecticut Monday to step up the pressure on a reluctant Congress to pass gun control legislation.

Sandy Hook Promise: We’re OK With Gun Compromise

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:26:22 -0400

Hartford Courant: Sandy Hook Promise: We thank the Governor, Senator John McKinney and Senator Beth Bye for their support and we thank the legislature for passing the strongest gun responsibility legislation in the nation.

Modified Version of GMO Food Labeling Bill Clears Public Health Committee

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:39:23 -0400

Hartford Courant: A key legislative committee on Tuesday endorsed a bill requiring food with genetically modified ingredients carry a label.

Senate Majority Leader Marty Looney Hails Sweeping, Comprehensive Bill

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:46:01 -0400

Capitol Watch: Senator Marty Looney has been fighting for gun control for the past 20 years. On Monday, he hailed a sweeping, highly detailed bill that would make Connecticut’s gun laws far more restrictive than many states in the nation.

Rachel Maddow: Bipartisanship actually exists post-Newtown

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:42:16 -0400

msnbc: Rachel Maddow talks to Donald Williams, president of the Connecticut State Senate, about the new gun control legislation passed post-Newtown in New York, Colorado, and now Connecticut.

Leadership, Rank-and-File Members OK Framework of Compromise on Gun Control

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:33:47 -0400

CT News Junkie: When rank-and-file lawmakers emerged from closed-door meetings at the Capitol on Monday, many weren’t entirely happy with the post-Newtown gun control legislation package they’d hammered out.

Vote planned Wednesday on sweeping gun-violence bill

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:32:37 -0400

CT Mirror: The General Assembly's leadership agreed Monday on a bipartisan response to the Sandy Hook school massacre, scheduling a vote Wednesday on a sweeping bipartisan gun-violence bill that imposes new restrictions on the purchase and ownership of firearms and ammunition in Connecticut.

More nimble airport authority still on arrival

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 12:09:45 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The state General Assembly created the CAA in June 2011 to change the oversight of Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks to an organization free of ConnDOT's bureaucracy.

Bills to address the costs of blight and conflicts of interest

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 12:15:24 -0400

Connecticut Post: A bill that would make it easier for cities and towns to pursue property owners for the costs of cleaning up blight was approved Monday by a key legislative committee.

CT's First C-PACE Clean Energy Project in Norwalk

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 09:31:56 -0400

It's Relevant: On Monday morning, Governor Dannel Malloy, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Senator Bob Duff, and other state and local officials announced Connecticut’s first energy efficiency project financed through the Commercial & Industrial Property Assessed Clean Energy program or C-PACE in Norwalk.

‘We Are All Newtown’

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:45:25 -0400

CT News Junkie: Having lost his own son to gun violence just three months before the shooting in Newtown, the Rev. Samuel Saylor said he was sick of hearing about Newtown.

New Job For Former Sen. Prague

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 12:57:59 -0400

Hartford Courant: Governor Dannel P. Malloy today tapped former State Senator Edith Prague of Columbia to serve as the Commissioner of the newly formed State Department on Aging (SDA).

Pfizer stuns officials, will demolish Building 118

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:19:42 -0400

The Day: Pfizer Inc.'s decision Wednesday to tear down the company's sprawling former research headquarters off Eastern Point Road stunned local and state officials who had invested thousands of hours trying to reuse the space to spur economic development in the region.

Conn. officials to unveil medical research grants

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:03:47 -0400

WTNH8: State officials in Hartford are set to announce this year's grant recipients for the Biomedical Research Fund.

Job Market In State Showing Gradual Signs Of Healing

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:39:06 -0400

Hartford Courant: The job picture may be brightening, particularly if you've only been out of work for a few months.

What's That Red Logo on Facebook Pages Across Country?

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:58:05 -0400

West Hartford Patch: You may have wondered at the logo showing up all over Facebook — a red square with two pink horizontal lines and folks changing their profile photos to this symbol that stands for marriage equality.

Northwestern CT Community College manufacturing new workers

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:54:52 -0400

Republican American: Jim Menard of Winsted started in his new job Monday at FuelCell Energy in Torrington.

Searching for a teachable moment in Torrington

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:24:16 -0400

CTMirror: As TV cameras persist outside their doors nearly a week after vicious online comments about an alleged statutory rape victim went viral, Torrington Public School officials are wrestling with difficult questions.

Tighter security considered for Connecticut colleges

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:03:41 -0400

News Times: The horrific shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School may result in tighter security at Connecticut's colleges and technical schools.

Pesticide-restriction bill aims to protect lobsters

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:03:59 -0400

Greenwich Time: A law restricting the use of two common mosquito-control chemicals known to harm lobsters could be a step toward salvaging Connecticut's beleaguered stocks of the crustaceans, which once supported a $100 million-a-year industry, state lobstermen said this week.

Legislators: No more blank check for college presidents

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 16:53:02 -0400

CTMirror: The presidents of the state's public colleges may soon be required to report how they are spending the thousands of dollars they receive annually to cover job-related travel and entertainment expenses.

Democratic Leader Says Cross-Endorsements Cause Confusion For Voters

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 12:05:34 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Sen. President Donald Williams and 23 other Democratic Senators were cross-endorsed in the 2012 election by both the Democratic party and a third party, but Williams proposed getting rid of the cross-endorsement system Monday because he says it causes confusion for voters.

Former Felons and Voting – Why Should We Care?

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:18:30 -0400

CT Latino News: Across the country, 5.85 million Americans are legally forbidden to vote because they have committed felonies and 4.7 million are excluded from voting due to state laws that place onerous restrictions on giving them their voting rights back after their release from prison.

Search warrants in Newtown shootings will be unsealed Wednesday

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 09:43:37 -0400

New Haven Register: The search warrants in the Sandy Hook School shootings will be unsealed at the end of the day Wednesday, and lawmakers have decided to put off a vote on gun control legislation until next week as a result.

Fun in CT's sun pumps $6.9B into economy

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:40:50 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: With warmer spring weather perhaps just around the corner, a new estimate shows Connecticut's outdoor recreators contribute $6.9 billion and 70,600 jobs to the state's economy.

The Story Behind Ledyard Center School's New Flag

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:42:28 -0400

LedyardPatch: Mr. Rogers' class at Ledyard Center School got an early lesson on the power of the pen this month. When the students wrote to State Sen. Cathy Osten and expressed dismay over the tattered state of their school flag, she was moved to act.

Bartolomeo testifies on early release program

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 09:32:33 -0400

The Middletown Press: State Sen. Dante Bartolomeo, D-Meriden, last week testified before the Judiciary Committee regarding changes she would like to see to Connecticut’s so-called ‘early release program,’ which is formally known as the Risk Reduction Earned Credit Program.

Dangerous water: Well contamination 'a statewide problem'

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 09:37:55 -0400

NewsTimes: Jessica Penna and Elle Wilson spent three years undergoing a battery of medical tests, searching for answers they now believe were floating in their well water all along.

Jackson Lab chief says state could benefit from scientific 'ecosystem'

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 09:40:51 -0400

The Day: One way to make Connecticut a bioscience center of the world is to create a network of scientists, consultants, businesses, hospitals and insurance companies that can assemble and disassemble to attack specific problems, says Edison Liu, president and CEO of The Jackson Laboratory.

Q-Poll: Surveys Show Sustained Support For Gun Control

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 09:17:21 -0400

Hartford Courant: As Congress and the state of Connecticut close in on a package of gun control legislation in response to the Newtown school massacre, the Quinnipiac Poll folks point out that their surveys show a striking national consensus aro0und enacting background checks for all gun purchases.

Malloy's Newtown panel to tackle mental health

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 10:24:06 -0400

WTNH8: The Sandy Hook Advisory Commission is scheduled to hear Friday from experts on issues related to mental health care, public awareness and discrimination.

State pours $60M into small-biz loan program

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 09:13:46 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's popular Small Business Express Program is getting a $60 million infusion from the state, which will extend the loan program well into 2013.

President Obama Signs Connecticut Disaster Declaration

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 09:19:27 -0400

Hartford Courant: President Obama has signed a Connecticut disaster declaration, making federal funding available to state and local governments to help offset the cost of the winter storm that hit the state from Feb. 8-11.

Leaders: Deal near on gun control

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:03:58 -0400

Greenwich Time: Top lawmakers said Thursday they expect that it could be a couple more weeks before the full House and Senate vote on legislation.

Six local lawmakers 'adopt' state parks

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 10:11:22 -0400

The Day: Six southeastern Connecticut lawmakers are among 40 statewide who have signed up for the Friends of Connecticut State Parks' Adopt-a-Park program, the organization announced today.

Should Districts Be Allowed to Customize the School Year?

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 10:23:17 -0400

Tolland Patch: A bill before the General Assembly would allow some school districts to create their own school calendars.

Bill to spur bioscience and pharmaceutical growth in region moves forward

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 10:12:57 -0400

The Day: A bill requiring the Department of Economic and Community Development to create a plan for bioscience and pharmaceutical growth in southeastern Connecticut was voted out of the Commerce Committee on Tuesday.

Gun Bills Backed By Legislative Committee

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:48:14 -0400

Hartford Courant: A legislative committee on Tuesday unanimously endorsed the first post-Newtown gun-control bills, including a measure that would require background checks on private gun sales.

Crisco joins Malloy in welcoming insurance company's move to state

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 10:40:10 -0400

New Haven Register: State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, co-chair of the legislature’s Insurance and Real Estate Committee, recently joined Gov. Dannel P. Malloy at a formal announcement of plans to have The Navigators Group, Inc., an international specialty insurance holding company, move its corporate headquarters and additional operations from New York to Connecticut.

Conn. lawmakers hold hearing on new civilian medal

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:33:18 -0400

WTHN8: State lawmakers are considering creating a new civilian medal of honor to recognize citizens who save a life or risk their own lives in the service of the state or their community.

Power up

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:28:04 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's pilot program to keep electricity flowing to key areas during widespread power outages is seeking significant expansion,

CT invests $6.1 million in making ports more viable

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:27:07 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The process of improving the economic viability of Connecticut's three seaports will begin with new lights.

Senior safety zones bill approved by Aging Committee

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:23:45 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: A bill modeled on a Montville ordinance that would seek to limit contact between senior citizens and registered sex offenders was approved by the General Assembly’s Aging Committee last week.

COMMENTARY: State's Children Lack Preschool Access

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 09:17:05 -0400

Hartford Courant: In Connecticut, universal access to high quality preschool falls short. A third of Connecticut's poorest children enter kindergarten without preschool.

CT proposes redefining renewables

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:19:05 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The Connecticut General Assembly on Tuesday will consider including hydropower from Canada and sustainable biomass in the definition of renewable power.

Insurer Becomes Latest In 'Next Five' Program, Moving Headquarters To Stamford

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:22:31 -0400

Hartford Courant: The Navigators Group, Inc., a commercial property-casualty insurer headquartered in New York, is relocating its corporate headquarters to Stamford, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced Friday.

Unemployment Rate Drops, CT Gains Jobs

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 12:14:38 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Connecticut’s unemployment rate dropped one-tenth of a percentage point to 8.1 percent from December to January and is on its way to recovering the jobs it lost during the recession, a Department of Labor researcher said Friday.

Reverse Outsourcing Deal Boosts Newhallville

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 10:33:19 -0400

New Haven Independent: Women getting mammograms in Chennai, India, will have a better chance of their doctors spotting problems, thanks to a deal with Newhallville inventor Fitz Walker.

Panel discussion focuses on children and gun safety

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 09:20:28 -0400

The Day: The Shoreline League of Democratic Women will host a panel discussion on education and advocacy surrounding children's health and gun safety April 11 in the Green Room, Clinton Town Hall, Route 1, Clinton.

Report card: Three months after Newtown, how much progress on gun safety?

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:01:22 -0400

MSNBC: Three months after a gunman took the lives of 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School, public opinion remains strongly in favor of gun control reform to curb gun violence in America.

Crisco working to postpone closure of nursing home in Ansonia

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 09:39:33 -0400

New Haven Register: State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, is engaged with all parties to try and reach an agreement that would postpone a closure of the Hilltop Health Center, a nursing home in Ansonia.

How Connecticut changed the juvenile justice world

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 09:37:50 -0400

Connecticut Post: A dozen years ago, Emily Tow Jackson, president of The Tow Foundation, invited me to Connecticut to talk about states' efforts to create forums to advocate for juvenile justice reforms.

Connecticut lawmakers object to cuts from school clinic funding

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 09:36:34 -0400

New Haven Register: State Sen. Toni Harp, D-New Haven, was joined by several other lawmakers in objecting to the $5.5 million cut in funding for school-based clinics proposed in the governor’s budget, calling it bad policy that will hurt children.

Momentum building for gun control, bipartisan or not

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 11:33:31 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: A far-reaching package of gun-violence legislation in response to the Sandy Hook school massacre is widely seen as inevitable in the General Assembly, with legislative leaders saying Wednesday night their goal is a vote by the end of March with or without a bipartisan deal.

State borrows $9.6 million to Encourage Small Businesses To Hire Unemployed

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:16:14 -0400

Hartford Courant: The Step Up program, which has paid small businesses up to 83 percent of the cost of new hires’ wages, will receive another $9.6 million in funding, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced Wednesday.

State: $3.2 milllion for HCC and and Greenwich dredging

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:11:46 -0400

Greenwich Time: The State Bond Commission on Wednesday approved more than $3.2 million for improvements at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport and $2 million for dredging in Greenwich.

More Money For On-The-Job Training & New Haven Harbor

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:09:38 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and the state Bond Commission approved more than $290 million in borrowing for a number of projects and investments, including $9.6 million for an on-the-job training program and $10 million to dredge New Haven Harbor.

State to fund Mystic River dredging

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:35:08 -0400

The Day: The state Bond Commission approved $5.5 million in funding today to dredge shoaled sections of the Mystic River near Mystic Seaport.

Local effort to bulk up biotech gains traction

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:34:35 -0400

The Day: A bill aimed at preventing a "brain drain" in southeastern Connecticut drew strong support Tuesday from a contingent of local scientists, politicians and business people, but opposition from the commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development could doom the legislation if it reaches the House floor.

Women Call On Legislature To Explore Paid Family Medical Leave

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:11:55 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: If you work for a Connecticut company with 50 or more employees, then it’s likely you qualify for 16 weeks of leave under the Family Medical Leave Act.

Gov. Malloy signs bills to set up fund for Sandy Hook responders and workers

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 17:53:21 -0400

New Haven Register: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy Tuesday signed a bill that sets up a fund to help workers at the scene or responding to the massacre at the Sandy Hook Elementary School ground who were emotionally traumatized and now need help.

EDITORIAL: State Tax Credit Too Important To Cut

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:11:21 -0400

Hartford Courant: The earned income tax credit, or EITC, is one of the best domestic policy tools ever invented. Since it can only be claimed by people who work and pay taxes, it encourages and rewards work. It keeps low-income wage earners out of poverty. The money saved goes right back into the local economy.

Q Poll: Voters Say No to Tolls, Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants, Yes to Raising the Minimum Wage

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:01:53 -0400

Hartford Courant: Tuesday morning’s Quinnipiac University poll asked about some hot-button issues pending in the legislature this session, including tolls on state highways, raising the minimum wage and whether immigrants who come to the U.S. illegally ought to be permitted to obtain drivers licenses.

Gun owners rally in Hartford

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:20:55 -0400

Connecticut Post: Standing on a sidewalk near the state Capitol and clutching a red and white NRA sign, Stewart Adams recalled the first deer he shot three years ago.

JayStar Group to grow with boost from Small Business Express

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 08:57:13 -0400

Norwalk Citizen: "The Small Business Express program has been a great success these past two years, supporting thousands of jobs statewide, including more than 100 right here in Norwalk. It's been a bipartisan effort from the start, and it shows what good can come of both parties working together to get our economy going again."

Film tax credits spike in FY ‘12

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:57:23 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's film and digital media industry had a blockbuster year in fiscal 2012, raking in $118 million in state tax credits, as production companies added jobs, increased spending and grew their infrastructure in the Nutmeg State, records show.

Small Business Express Program Adds JayStar Group

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:35:49 -0400

It's Relevant: State Senator Bob Duff and State Representative Larry Cafero welcomed a new company to the Small Business Express Program Monday morning. JayStar Group is a small service firm in Norwalk.

Unpaid student loans hit CT vocational school pupils hardest

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:59:50 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The closure of Butler Business School late last year left a bitter taste in the mouths of Connecticut students and education regulators who weren't given notice that the Bridgeport for-profit career institute was about to abruptly shut its doors.

Conn. takes first look at new shoreline land rules

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 10:28:25 -0500

WTNH8: Connecticut is taking the first small steps to change shoreline land-use regulations to avoid a repeat of the destruction caused by storms last year and in 2011.

EDITORIAL: Let Overseas Military Fax Votes Home

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 09:14:05 -0500

Hartford Courant: About 40 percent of ballots sent to America's military members stationed abroad are lost or don't make it back in time to be counted, says state Sen. Gayle Slossberg.

State Loan Fuels Growth At Firm That Makes Software To Change With The Times

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:43:18 -0400

Hartford Courant: Circle Commerce is a nice little business. It employs 10 people in modest offices in an Avon office park. It receives a few million dollars a year from the 49 merchandisers that use its software to sell everything from books to stuffed bears to briefcases.

Conn. women lawmakers backing trafficking bill

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:23:34 -0400

WTNH8: The Permanent Commission on the Status of Women says every female member of the Connecticut General Assembly is backing a bill that would authorize the forfeiture of money and property obtained from human and sex trafficking.

Job Increases Could Surpass Expectations

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 16:37:08 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Connecticut’s 2012 job growth may surpass modest expectations when the Labor Department releases revised estimates later this month, according to the the University of Connecticut’s quarterly economic analysis.

State Bond Commission expected to approve repair funds for Lake Beseck Dam

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 09:16:41 -0500

The Middletown Press: The State Bond Commission is expected to approve funding for repairs to the Lake Beseck Dam in Middlefield and the Foster Pond Dam in Meriden at its March 13 meeting.

Lawmakers Hear Plea To Crack Down On Illegal ATVs, Dirt Bikes In Cities

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 09:32:56 -0500

Hartford Courant: Despite the best efforts of police, riders still jeopardize pedestrians by illegally blazing through New Haven's streets on unregistered dirt bikes and ATVs, Sgt. Vincent Anastasio said.

Gov. Malloy is pushing for school breakfast programs

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 09:49:10 -0500

WTNH8: Governor Malloy is pushing for more schools in our state to take advantage of breakfast programs.

Butler students to get business certificates

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 09:33:06 -0500

Connecticut Post: Some 85 students left in the lurch after the abrupt closing of Butler Business School in Bridgeport and its sister facilities will get certificates of completion from the state instead.

CT ranks No. 5 in green job creation

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:27:01 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut ranked No. 5 in America for green job creation in 2012, according to a national business association compiling of media reports.

Key Lawmaker Says Requests To Double Size Of Incentives Exempt From Oversight Unlikely To Pass

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 10:38:09 -0500

Hartford Courant: The co-chairman of the legislature's commerce committee said Wednesday that two requests by the Department of Community Economic Development to double the size of incentive packages that are exempt from legislative oversight are unlikely to pass.

Manufacturers discuss changing profession at Connecticut Business Day

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 10:40:19 -0500

New Britain Herald: Area manufacturers told state legislators that there is consensus that manufacturing as a profession has changed, that it’s more respectable, clean and requires more sophisticated skills during a roundtable discussion at Wednesday’s Connecticut Business Day at the state Capitol.

Fund approved for workers traumatized by Newtown shootings

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 10:33:52 -0500

Mansfield Times: The Connecticut General Assembly unanimously gave final approval today (March 6) for legislation that will create a special fund to assist workers who were traumatized by the shootings at Sandy Hook elementary school in Newtown, CT.

Doyle leads Senate debate on Espinosa nomination

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 15:33:03 -0500

The Middletown Press: State Sen. Paul Doyle, D-Wethersfield, on Wednesday led a Senate debate on the confirmation of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s nomination of Carmen Espinosa to the Connecticut Supreme Court.

Diplomacy, discretion mark day one of gun talks

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 10:31:34 -0500

Connecticut Mirror: The leaders of the Connecticut General Assembly emerged from gun-control negotiations Wednesday night to offer an account carefully constructed from the noncommittal language of diplomacy.

Op-Ed: Support bills to fight human trafficking in Connecticut

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 09:18:35 -0500

Stamford Advocate: As the title of your editorial suggests (Feb. 21), members of the Center for Youth Leadership in Norwalk are trying to serve the victims of prostitution, or, as we like to say, the victims of human trafficking, especially the child victims in Connecticut.

Senate Leaders React to Q Poll Numbers

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 17:25:10 -0500

Capitol Watch: Sen. President Donald Williams said the results of Wednesday’s Quinnipiac University poll show the depth and breadth of support for sweeping gun-control measures in Connecticut.
“A huge majority of people across this state, a majority of Democrats and a majority of Republicans, support the tough, common-sense reforms we need to pass,” Williams told reporters at the Capitol Wednesday morning.

CT pushes mandatory solar tax exemption

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 17:29:55 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: The energy leaders in Connecticut's General Assembly will push for all cities and towns to grant tax exemptions on commercial solar installations, rather than giving municipalities the option of allowing the exemption.

System Of Small Business Centers Launched By State, SBA

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 16:57:26 -0500

Hartford Courant: The state is relaunching about a dozen small businesses advisory centers as part of a partnership with the federal government, chambers of commerce and state universities.

Lawmakers poised to pass legislation that will compensate those emotionally traumatized by Newtown shootings

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 15:02:17 -0500

New Haven Register: Lawmakers later today say they will pass legislation that establishes a fund to assist workers emotionally traumatized by the massacre at the Sandy Hook Elementary School that can be used to cover lost wages and uncovered medical expenses.

Connecticut powers startups

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:39:49 -0500

Yale Daily News: Sitting at a table with no more than her laptop, Judi Otton had all she needed to grow her new company.

Tong, Leone Host Legislation Public Forum in Stamford

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:35:34 -0500

Stamford Patch: State Representative William Tong and state Senator Carlo Leone hosted a public hearing at the University of Connecticut-Stamford campus Tuesday evening to receive feedback on a number of proposed bills.

Conn. lawmakers to vote on special Newtown fund

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:23:39 -0500

WTNH8: Connecticut lawmakers are expected to vote on a bipartisan bill that would create a special account to help workers affected by the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown.

Connecticut lawmakers recommend additional restrictions on guns

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:47:13 -0500

New Haven Register: There is some consensus between Democrats and Republicans on how to reduce gun violence, particularly concerning universal background checks, but a wide gap remains on an expanded assault weapon ban, limiting magazine sizes, suitability questions and permitting details.

Group: Ban chemicals, protect kids

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:29:42 -0500

Connecticut Post: A coalition of lawmakers and child advocates said Tuesday toxic chemicals linked to cancer and other diseases must be banned from children's products and canned goods.

Poll Finds Support For Stricter Gun Laws

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:16:52 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Hours after the legislature’s gun task force released its recommendations on stricter gun control measures the Quinnipiac University Polling Institute unveiled a poll, which shows voters support stricter gun laws 66 to 30 percent.

Mental health panel makes four recommendations

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:22:00 -0500

Connecticut Mirror: The bipartisan panel examining mental health issues agreed Tuesday to four recommendations that could become part of legislation intended to respond to the mass shooting at Newtown's Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Malloy Announces $37 Million For Capital Improvement At Community Colleges

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:25:43 -0500

Hartford Courant: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said Tuesday that more than $37 million in capital improvement projects for the state's community colleges will be placed on the agenda for next week's State Bond Commission meeting.

Mental Health First Aid: psychology's CPR

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:42:21 -0500

CTMirror: Mary Botti gave her class a scenario: Someone in front of you is stressed, maybe having a panic attack for the first time. What do you say?

The Top Consumer Complaints, Scams Of 2012

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 13:04:16 -0500

Hartford Courant: Have you been duped, scammed or over charged for services? Have you hired no-show contractors or bought food already past its expiration date?

March Of Dimes Connecticut Chapter Honors 2012 Volunteers Of Excellence

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:44:13 -0500

Hartford Courant: The March of Dimes Connecticut Chapter is proud to announce its 2012 "Volunteers of Excellence": Volunteers of the Year.

Efforts to combat price gouging discussed in Cromwell

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:29:05 -0500

The Middletown Press: Two state senators on Monday kicked off National Consumer Protection Week with a press conference at Mountain View Landscape in Cromwell to highlight legislative efforts to combat price gouging in Connecticut.

Conn. lawmakers to forward gun violence proposal

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:37:46 -0500

WTNH8: A bipartisan, legislative working group is planning to finalize its recommendations for law changes addressing gun violence.

Malloy visits 4 small businesses in Connecticut

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 09:15:34 -0500

New Haven Register: The cranberry oatmeal raisin cookie that Gov. Dannel P. Malloy shared with Commissioner Catherine Smith never would have been possible, shop owner Katalina Riegelmann said, without the help of a loan, obtained through the Small Business Express Program.

2,000 attend New Haven hearing on bill to give licenses to undocumented

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 09:37:37 -0500

New Haven Register: It's an unpopular tax so many people might like the idea of not having to pay motor vehicle taxes anymore but cities and towns say it would hurt their bottom line and potentially force them to raise property taxes.

CUSH workshops simplify organic turf management

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 10:01:38 -0500

Mystic River Press: “Our waters are at risk here, and it is something our committee is looking at again this year. The real important work is what Chip is doing to get the message out to help people, dispel the illusions and distortions about organics and what the industry is trying to do to sell us products on the chemical side.”

New Trauma Coalition Offers Post-Newtown Plan

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 16:09:46 -0500

New Haven Independent: Give New Haven $6.5 million, and we’ll show you one big way to respond to the horror of Newtown.

Conn. lawmakers to highlight price gouging bill

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 16:08:50 -0500

News Times: Some Connecticut lawmakers are seeking support for legislation they say will address price gouging for storm-related services, such as snow removal and lodging during long power outages.

Madison students celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday with reading event

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 09:02:35 -0500

New Haven Register: The hallways of Island Avenue School were a sea of red as students and teachers celebrated Dr. Seuss’ Read Across America.

Some legislators say video games lead to real violence; some fear enforcement costly

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 08:54:50 -0500

Record Journal: A New Haven lawmaker is trying to keep children younger than 18 away from shooter-style arcade games.

League of Women Voters holds legislative coffee

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 08:52:22 -0500

Darien Times: The Darien League of Women Voters held a Legislative Coffee on Feb. 15 at the home of Joyce and Mike Critelli.

Legislators Want To Know: How Good Are The State's Early Childhood Programs?

Sat, 02 Mar 2013 08:57:07 -0500

Hartford Courant: In general, most experts agree that the preponderance of research across the country shows that high quality early childhood programs do provide a benefit for children, particularly for poor children. But there are different shades in opinion on how great that gain might be.

Duff honored for assistance with after school program

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 09:11:59 -0500

Norwalk Citizen: State Senator Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) was named Legislator of the Year on Thursday evening by the Naramake Elementary School Family Resource Center.

Williams, Looney Turn Up Pressure For Passage Of Emergency Bill In Response To Newtown Massacre

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 17:29:04 -0500

Capitol Watch: In a letter sent Friday, Senate President Pro Tempore Donald Williams and Majority Leader Martin Looney formalized comments that Williams had made Thursday in a Courant interview: They want the subcommittees of the Newtown legislative task force that they formed in mid-January to submit their recommendations by Tuesday, so that legislative leaders can “begin negotiations … at 3 p.m” that same day on provisions of a comprehensive emergency bill responding to the Dec. 14 school massacre.

State housing panel holds hearing in Meriden

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:49:59 -0500

Record Journal: In an effort to bring committee meetings and public hearings into the community, the Housing Committee of the General Assembly met Thursday night at an unusual place — the Meriden Public Library.

Democrats' Impatience Grows On Gun Bill; Say They Don't Need GOP's OK On What's In It

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:53:27 -0400

Hartford Courant: A week after Gov. Dannel P. Malloy got tired of waiting for a legislative task force to recommend gun-control legislation in response to the Newtown school massacre — and then proposed his own — the top leader of the Democratic-controlled state Senate said Thursday that "frankly, I'm losing patience," too.

Boys' deaths add urgency to Connecticut gun debate

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:29:24 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: The family of two young boys killed in an apparent-murder suicide — and state police — said Thursday they want to know why the boys' grandmother, with a history of mental health problems, had access to the revolver used in the shootings.

Minimum Wage Hike Passes Committee On Party Line Vote

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:14:00 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: The Labor and Public Employees Committee passed an increase in the minimum wage Thursday along party lines, but the proposal faces skepticism from both the House speaker and the governor.

RealtyTrac: Foreclosure sales fell, short sales rose in 2012

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:22:01 -0500

Republican American: Some 43 percent of all residential home sales in the United States last year were either foreclosure sales or short sales, according to a report being released today.

Conn. bill to apply worker's comp to mental trauma

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:06:56 -0500

WTNH8: A legislative committee is considering a bill that would require Connecticut's worker's compensation system to cover the treatment costs for mental illnesses stemming from certain workplace traumas.

Conn. seeks to promote recycling industry, jobs

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:05:46 -0500

WTNH8: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and two of his commissioners are trying to drum up recycling business in Connecticut as a way to boost the industry in the state and create jobs.

Study: State a national model for teen justice

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:35:38 -0500

Newstimes: Arrest and incarceration rates for teens have fallen off sharply, thanks to the state's "raise the age" effort and a series of community collaborations that discourage juvenile crime.

Microgrid Projects Move To Final Funding Round In State Program

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 10:07:54 -0500

Hartford Courant: More than two dozen applications for the state's microgrid program moved to a final round for design and engineering, the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said Wednesday.

Mental health panel to endorse educator training, case management, not outpatient commitment

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:11:18 -0500

Connecticut Mirror: A bipartisan legislative panel crafting policy changes in response to the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School is expected to recommend that case management be available to people with serious mental illness and that educators receive "mental health first aid" training to recognize signs of problems.

Branford family fights for early testing of rare disease

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:54:39 -0500

Shoreline Times: What if there was a test to tell parents their son had a life-threatening illness? What if there was a cure to stop that debilitating illness?

Urban Crime Victims Call For Stricter Handgun Laws

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:04:17 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: The Newtown shootings may have prompted a national debate on gun control, but lawmakers from Connecticut’s urban areas want to make sure their voices — and the voices of victims — don’t get lost in the debate.

Sandy Hook Father Becomes Reluctant But Compelling Spokesman For Gun Control

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:48:18 -0500

Hartford Courant: Jesse Lewis, 6, and his father spent part of the evening on Dec. 13 at Stew Leonard's grocery in Danbury where they bought Christmas ornaments for one of Jesse's friends, family members and for his first-grade teacher, Victoria Soto.

Special Report: Firearm Facts -- the AR-15

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:33:35 -0500

WTNH-8: Since the shootings at Sandy Hook, the debate over gun control has been raging -- with much of the focus on the AR-15. But what exactly is an AR-15?

Hundreds Drawn To Solar Energy In Connecticut

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 10:37:14 -0500

WNPR: Solarize Connecticut and CT Solar Challenge are both working to promote community-based incentive programs to grow solar energy.

Bill would bar minors from violent video games in public

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 09:32:46 -0500

CTMirror: Mindful of the Newtown massacre, a legislative committee Tuesday considered a bill that would bar minors from using violent, point-and-shoot video games at public arcades and other businesses.

Malloy Proposes Confiscating Guns From Owners With DUI Convictions

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:44:39 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Many of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s gun proposals allow gun owners to keep their current firearms, so long as they register them. However, one recommendation could have some current gun owners turning over their weapons.

Growing the region's bioscience industry

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:26:51 -0500

The Day: Growing the bioscience industry can create good-paying jobs and encourage the graduates of Connecticut's many fine universities to undertake their careers here.

Connecticut panel recommends Mental Health First Aid for educators

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:30:15 -0500

Middletown Press: State Sen. Gayle Slossberg, D-Milford, said the subcommittee on mental health established in the wake of the Sandy Hook massacre is recommending school personnel be trained in Mental Health First Aid as an initial step to help students in crisis.

Risk reduction law ‘should be on the front burner’

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:57:10 -0500

Record Journal: State lawmakers expect there will be changes this legislative session to a program that allows inmates to earn credits toward early release from prison.

Connecticut Colleges - All in the Family

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:27:51 -0500

Hartford Magazine: A reorganizing of the state’s higher education education has put Connecticut’s community colleges under the same umbrella as the four state schools, making transfers easier and streamlining funds and staff.

Public Hearing Tuesday On Bill To Limit Access To Violent Video Games

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 14:03:01 -0500

Hartford Courant: Reports that the gunman in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown spent much of his time playing violent video games has sparked three legislative proposals to study the behavioral effect of the games and whether to limit their availability to young people.

Clock ticking on Connecticut gun bill; pressure to act may trump bipartisan agreement

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:39:23 -0500

West Hartford News: Pressure is building for legislators to get the strongest gun violence reduction bill passed quickly, rather than take the time for a broad bipartisan agreement.

Making Schools Safer

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 09:04:48 -0500

FOX Real Story: State Sen. Dante Bartolomeo talks about new measures state lawmakers will consider to make schools safer and how they could be funded.

Sen. Williams: Tourism districts must be justified

Sat, 23 Feb 2013 10:25:57 -0500

The Day: State Sen. Donald Williams told a Chamber of Commerce meeting Friday at the Hilton Mystic that he believes in regional tourism districts, "especially in eastern Connecticut," but that local officials need to prove the value of their marketing efforts to survive cuts proposed in Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's budget.

Red Light Camera Proponents Try Again At Capitol

Sat, 23 Feb 2013 09:32:33 -0500

Hartford Courant: Red light cameras are back at the state Capitol in Hartford as proponents make their annual — and, up to now, perennially unsuccessful — attempt to win legislative approval to enable Connecticut cities and towns to install electronic enforcement systems at intersections.

Sen. Williams: Bipartisan Support On Guns Neither Mandatory Nor Guaranteed

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 14:07:02 -0500

Hartford Courant: The day after Malloy released a five-part plan to reduce gun violence in the state, Senate President Don Williams released a statement voicing support for the governor’s proposals.

Security and mental health experts urge change

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:08:12 -0500

Connecticut Post: National and area mental health and law enforcement officials used statistics to help press for gun control and more counseling in a conference on gun violence Thursday.

EDITORIAL: Pass Malloy's gun plan without delay

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:06:38 -0500

Stamford Advocate: More than two months after the horror of Sandy Hook, there is no reason why the state where the massacre happened should not have bills containing simple safety measures ready to go.

Malloy defends release of gun-control ideas

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:05:29 -0500

Connecticut Post: Legislative leaders were generally polite on Thursday after Gov. Dannel P. Malloy offered his multi-point proposals to tighten Connecticut's gun laws.

Governor proposes restrictions on weapons, ammo

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:06:48 -0500

CTMirror: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Thursday released the "common sense" changes he wants to see in Connecticut's gun laws to prevent another mass shooting.

CT’s Share Of Mortgage Relief Higher Than Expected

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 17:17:38 -0500

Hartford Courant: Connecticut homeowners with troubled mortgages stand to receive a larger than expected share of last year’s $25 billion settlement with major loan servicers over their foreclosure practices, the attorney general said today.

Maynard, fellow legislators start 'Life Sciences Caucus'

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:30:38 -0500

The Day: Andrew Maynard, D-Stonington, on Wednesday announced a new, bipartisan life sciences caucus of the legislature that aims to promote innovation and economic growth.

Program is a Step Up for state's veterans

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:09:57 -0500

Connecticut Post: David Alger, a 24-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran of Afghanistan, did some part-time work after returning home from the war, but he was discouraged by the state's job market.

Technical Manufacturing Corporation in Durham to add jobs

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 09:21:58 -0500

Middletown Press: State Sen. Ed Meyer, D-Guilford, visited Technical Manufacturing Corporation Wednesday for a tour of the small circuit board manufacturing outfit, which he helped secure financial assistance for under the state Small Business Express Program.

Biden heads panelists on gun conference

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 09:29:23 -0500

Newstimes: Vice President Joe Biden will be joined by the parents of one of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at a Thursday conference focusing on reducing gun violence.

Report to be released on Conn. jobs program

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 09:32:22 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: Connecticut Labor Commissioner Sharon Palmer is releasing a new report on a program that provides wage subsidies and training grants to small businesses.

Our View: An early start is a wise investment

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 10:42:13 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s decision to create an Office of Early Childhood Education, consolidating early education programs and services under one roof, makes a lot of sense.

44 bills on driving and transportation considered

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 10:18:53 -0500

WTNH8: The general assembly's Transportation Committee is looking for public input today on a variety of bills that would impact how you travel, what's on the road, and what you can do in your car.

Bill would lift Butler students out of limbo

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 09:21:44 -0500

Connecticut Post: Students left stranded by the abrupt closing of Butler Business School in Bridgeport and its sister facilities would get certificates of completion directly from the state under a bill making its way through the General Assembly.

Post-Newtown Panel Recommends Changes To Promote Safer Schools

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:11:21 -0500

Hartford Courant: School districts would find it more affordable to equip staff with emergency buttons, install ballistic glass and make other post-Newtown safety improvements under recommendations endorsed by a legislative panel Tuesday.

Putting GEMs on the road

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:38:54 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: The owner of Advanced Automotive has been selling the GEM, a low-speed electric car, out of his Griswold shop for about a year now, and hopes to increase his sales by getting state legislators to agree that the cars are, indeed, not golf carts, and should be allowed on public roads.

His Vote Didn’t Count Last Year

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 14:01:08 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: In 2012, Sgt. Kevin Townley’s vote didn’t count. He mailed it from the United Arab Emirates, but it never got to Trumbull to be counted.

DREAMer, Civil Engineer Asks State To Let Undocumented Immigrants Receive Financial Aid

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 15:00:00 -0500

Hartford Courant: Mariono Cardoso is a sophomore at CCSU majoring in civil engineering. He is an undocumented immigrant, but has lived in the country since he was two and attended high school in New Britain.

A Deeper Divide: The Gun Control Debate After Newtown

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:10:35 -0500

Hartford Courant: Today, Newtown is like no place in America. The killing of 20 children and six women at Sandy Hook Elementary School devastated the small community. It also launched an examination of the culture, safety and legality of guns that, while occurring across the nation, is unfolding in Newtown and Connecticut with unmatched urgency.

Lawmakers' report on school security due Tuesday

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 10:39:25 -0500

Record Journal: Local state legislators are deeply involved in making recommendations about improving school safety and mental health, concerns that were brought to the fore following the mass shooting at a Newtown elementary school in December.

Students fight for financial aid to undocumented

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 10:32:02 -0500

NewsTimes: Senate Bill 475, introduced by state Sen. Andres Ayala, D-Bridgeport, would allow students who are eligible for in-state tuition -- regardless of immigration status -- to receive financial aid from institutions that is funded by tuition dollars.

Mapping the Session

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 10:19:10 -0500

Readily Apparent: View related bills from the 2013 Connecticut General Assembly regular session.

Transportation Bills: Open HOV Lanes At Rush Hour; Ban Smoking In Cars With Kids; Require Drivers To Know CPR

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 09:06:50 -0500

Hartford Courant: State legislators will hear public opinion Wednesday on proposals to ban smoking in cars with young passengers, open the HOV lanes to any drivers at afternoon rush hour, and require annual inspections for high-mileage vehicles.

Final Version Of Malloy's Energy Plan Expected Tuesday; Keeps Focus On Natural Gas

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 09:13:57 -0500

Hartford Courant: The governor plans to make public the final version of his energy plan Tuesday after months of public comment and debate over its hallmark feature: increased availability of natural gas.

EDITORIAL: Increase in federal minimum wage is overdue

Sat, 16 Feb 2013 11:13:42 -0500

New Haven Register: President Barack Obama’s proposal to boost the federal minimum wage to $9 per hour begs the question, “Would the ripples from this be good or bad for a fragile economy?”

White House Medal Ceremony For Newtown Teachers

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 15:41:11 -0500

Hartford Courant: At a special ceremony honoring the six educators who died at Sandy Hook Elementary School, President Obama awarded them the Presidential Citizens Medal Friday morning.

State lawmakers working to shift $60m to small business aid program

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 09:56:23 -0500

Republican American: State lawmakers are quickly advancing a plan to shift $60 million into the popular Small Business Express Program.

Waiting for the next crisis: Parents struggle with children's mental health needs

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 12:09:56 -0500

CTMirror: Nancy remembers the party at her friends' house, a gathering of a couple of dozen parents. They knew each other because they had children with mental health problems, but that night, they were there to enjoy themselves.

Supervision, planning, training are keys to school security

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 09:27:14 -0500

CTMirror: The NRA has suggested armed guards as the best way to protect America's schoolchildren. Others say metal detectors, video cameras and sophisticated alarm devices would help defend and protect against mass shootings like the one at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown.

Thousands Gather On Capitol Steps To Call For Stricter Gun Laws

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 09:21:13 -0500

Hartford Courant: More than 5,000 supporters of tighter controls on firearms crowded the state Capitol Thursday morning, demanding action from the General Assembly in the wake of the Newtown school massacre.

One Billion Rising At State Capitol

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 14:28:23 -0500

Hartford Courant: Thursday’s Flash Mob was part of a worldwide happening devoted to ending violence against women, plus a little dancing. Special Correspondent Jodi Latina sends this dispatch from the Legislative Office Building.

Consensus building around improving school security

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 09:31:13 -0500

The Day: State lawmakers in the School Safety Working Group are beginning to reach consensus on how to protect schoolchildren in the wake of the Newtown shootings.

To Fight Guns, Groups Model Gun Owners

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:35:27 -0500

Wall Street Journal: About three dozen people sat in the bleachers of the Newtown High School gym one recent evening discussing how to pass stricter gun laws.

Rally to be held for gun control

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 09:44:23 -0500

WFSB: Organizers of March for Care are expecting a large turnout for a gun control rally at the steps of the Capitol in Hartford Thursday.

Blizzard delivers crushing blow to Connecticut agriculture

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 14:21:44 -0500

CTMirror: Patti Popp of Sport Hill Farm in Easton was at least managing to laugh a bit as she described the collapsed hoop house.

State would create plan to back start-ups and emerging businesses

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:46:40 -0500

The Day: A delegation of southeastern Connecticut legislators have introduced a bill they hope will draw attention, and perhaps funding, to existing talents and facilities in the bioscience and pharmaceutical fields.

11-Year-Old Tells Lawmakers To Make Towns Switch To Gender-Neutral Signs

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:50:27 -0500

Hartford Courant: HB 6038, sponsored by Rep. Toni Walker and Sen. Toni Harp, would require the Department of Transportation to use gender-neutral "People at Work" signs for construction work.

State Begins To Return To Normal

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 09:58:26 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said it’s taking the state a little longer than desired to get back to normal, but he expects Wednesday morning commuters to find a majority of the state’s highways and roads cleared.

Conn. bill seeks more election disclosure rules

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:54:42 -0500

NECN: Connecticut lawmakers are considering a bill that would require outside groups spending money in state elections to provide more information about their contributors.

90 Gun-Related Bills

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:34:28 -0500

OLR: A list of gun-related bills proposed this session and their sponsors and (2) to list the bills by category.u

Malloy’s budget to focus on education, job growth

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 09:34:15 -0500

New Britain Herald: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy promised Wednesday to keep moving Connecticut closer to recovery from the national recession by continuing investments in education and job development as he unveiled the second, two-year budget of his administration.

OP-ED: More needs to be done to stop gun violence

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:41:25 -0500

New Haven Register: With the help of the state police at its gun range and a local Guilford police officer with extensive gun experience, I acquired a deep conviction that gun violence results primarily from multiple round magazines that can be rapidly inserted in both handguns and assault rifles.

Windsor's 3XC gets $160K from CT

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 10:52:28 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Triple Helix Corp. got a $160,000 small-business grant to expand the Windsor software developer/information manager, in return for its commitment to create more jobs and technologies.

Violent video games targeted by legislators

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:15:38 -0500

CTMirror: Three bills have been filed by state legislators seeking to limit the role violent video games have on children.

Handgun Permitting Process Debated By Lawmakers, Police Chiefs

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 09:34:23 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: In Connecticut, obtaining a permit to carry a handgun is a two-step process. First, you must apply with your local police chief or resident state trooper. The application process includes fingerprinting, a background check, and a questionnaire. The local police chief or resident state trooper has eight weeks to either approve or deny the application.

$40m in Sandy aid for Connecticut

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 11:22:35 -0500

The Day: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has announced that to date more than $40 million in federal assistance has been approved to help individuals and businesses with disaster expenses as a result of Superstorm Sandy.

Conn. lawmakers considering assisted suicide bill

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 09:28:53 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: Edward Meyer, a Democratic senator from Guilford, has proposed legislation that would allow a mentally competent person suffering from a terminal illness to take his or her own life with the help prescribed medication. A similar bill was proposed in 2009.

Experts worry about mental health stigma

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:30:17 -0500

The Middletown Press: According to a 1999 U.S. Surgeon General’s report, “The discrimination and stigma associated with mental illnesses largely stem from the link between mental illness and violence in the minds of the general public.”

Legislators Have Tougher Questions For Gun Industry

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:17:34 -0500

Hartford Courant: The questions from lawmakers to gun industry executives got tough Monday, as seen during a sharp exchange at a public hearing on gun laws following the Dec. 14 Sandy Hook school massacre.

Malloy Proposes 'Office of Early Childhood'

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:26:57 -0500

Hartford Courant: Malloy said the new state agency would "fundamentally transform how we address early childhood" including issues ranging "from school readiness to teacher training. We are proposing a system that will put these programs and services in one place."

Connecticut lawmakers dig in on gun control

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:30:35 -0500

The Middletown Press: State legislators face the task of sifting through more than 100 bills, reams of letters and emails, and hours of public testimony, including from the grieving parents of slain Sandy Hook Elementary School students, to come up with recommendations for policy and law changes following the Newtown shooting.

Connecticut gun makers quietly fighting gun control

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 14:43:47 -0500

CTMirror: While they're keeping a low profile, representatives of Connecticut's firearms industry are in the thick of the national gun control fight.

Malloy to pitch $500M for economic development

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 14:57:09 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says he will propose at least a $500 million economic development incentive package in his two-year budget plan to be unveiled Wednesday, as the first term Democrat looks to double down on some of the major programs he put in place to jumpstart the state's ailing economy.

CT rushes to fix hole in solar tax

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 14:58:56 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut lawmakers are urgently working on passing a forgotten exemption to the state tax code that's leaving businesses susceptible to thousands in municipal assessments for building solar and other renewable energy systems.

Amazon will collect sales tax, open distribution center

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:54:05 -0500

CTMirror: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced a new agreement Monday that will force Amazon.com to start collecting the state sales tax.

Westport forum: Officials struggle for common ground on gun rights v. gun control

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:43:31 -0500

Westport News: More than 200 people turned out Sunday at a Westport forum to hear elected officials from the federal to local levels discuss how to reduce gun violence and bridge the hostile divide between gun-rights and gun-control advocates.

To stun or not to stun? That’s the question.

Sun, 03 Feb 2013 09:41:22 -0500

Connecticut Post: After a string of controversial incidents involving electric stun guns and accusations of excessive force by police, local legislators and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People are reviving a call for laws that would regulate and track use of the weapons.

Newtown Hearings Giving Way To Expedited Legislative Schedule

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:11:12 -0500

Hartford Courant: Four public hearings on the Newtown school massacre have generated an historic outpouring of ideas, drama and dispute. The next step for the legislative task force is to distill that information, much of it contradictory, into a bill that state legislative leaders want to pass by Feb. 28.

Dems ask to raise minimum wage

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 11:22:27 -0500

Connecticut Post: Majority Democrats on Thursday announced a campaign to raise the minimum hourly wage for Connecticut's lowest-paid workers.

Purple Heart Homes: A place to come home to

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 11:20:26 -0500

Reminder News: For many who returned home from war, the battle did not stop. Many service-disabled veterans found that their homes – not built to accommodate their handicaps – were barriers to the healing process, when they should have been places of recovery.

After Sandy Hook, package of laws emerging

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 16:49:48 -0500

Connecticut Post: After hours of public hearings and briefing, some obvious legislative reactions to the Sandy Hook School shootings are emerging.

Elimination of energy-generation tax debated

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:01:59 -0500

The Day:Andrea Stillman, D-Waterford, Rep. Betsy Ritter, D-Waterford, and a dozen other legislators said they wanted the state to keep its promise and let the two-year energy-generation tax sunset.

Newtown Tells Lawmakers: 'Honor The Lives Lost'

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 09:30:33 -0500

Hartford Courant: A crowd of several hundred, the vast majority from Newtown and in favor of stronger gun restrictions, fell silent as Hockley sat at a microphone and told of the grief of her older son Jake, 8, a third-grader at Sandy Hook Elementary School, where 20 first-graders and six women staff members were killed by 20-year-old Adam Lanza using a Bushmaster AR-15 semiautomatic rifle.

More in Connecticut living on the edge financially

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 16:35:28 -0500

The Day: The percentage of Connecticut residents living on the financial edge took a dramatic turn for the worse in the past year, according to a report released Wednesday by the public policy group Corporation for Enterprise Development.

UConn/Courant Poll: Adults Favor Gun Control in Post-Newtown Era

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 16:32:43 -0500

Hartford Courant: A majority of state residents support a broad array of gun control measures and say the Newtown shootings have swayed their opinions, according to a new University of Connecticut/Hartford Courant poll.

Twitter Comes To The State Capitol

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 12:04:58 -0500

Hartford Courant: "Traditional sources of media are fractured these days,'' said Sen. Bob Duff, a Democrat from Norwalk who organized seminar and is active on both platforms. "As legislators and elected officials, we have to put information out there."

Meriden schools discuss new safety measures after Newtown shooting

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 09:18:29 -0500

WFSB: At least one state senator took a firsthand look at what Connecticut schools are doing to step up security at schools since the shooting in Newtown.

For the second time since she was named to a gun violence and school safety task force, state Sen. Dante Bartolomeo visited Roger Sherman Elementary School in Meriden where officials are considering the possibility of officers in every school.

Malloy Wants To Invest $1.5 Billion In UConn Sciences, Technology

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 09:40:14 -0500

Hartford Courant: Science, technology, engineering and math programs at the University of Connecticut could get a $1.5 billion boost over the next decade, with the intention of creating a pipeline of talent that will yield substantial returns for the state workforce and economy.

Legislation Would Strengthen CT Home Foreclosure Mediation Program

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 09:29:11 -0500

Hartford Courant: Connecticut’s home foreclosure mediation program has been a model for other states, but the governor and other state officials today announced proposed legislation that would further tighten the process.

Sandy Hook Mom Makes A Desperate Plea For Help

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 09:44:15 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: A legislative committee charged with addressing the state’s mental health system after the Sandy Hook shooting heard Tuesday from a Sandy Hook mother who was all too familiar with systemic problems in the state’s mental health system.

Minimum wage hike proposed

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 16:59:16 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: When Jonathan Burrow began working at the Norwich ShopRite six years ago, he was in the same position as thousands of other young employees across the state who brought home minimum wage paychecks.

Atria Stamford unveils new Life Guidance memory care neighborhood

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 15:07:02 -0500

Stamford Plus: Atria Senior Living announced the grand opening of a new Life Guidance® memory care neighborhood at Atria Stamford, a senior living community in Connecticut.

Sixty-six mass shootings in the U.S. since 1949

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 09:44:10 -0500

CTMirror: On Sept. 6, 1949, in only 12 minutes, Howard Unruh shot and killed 13 people, including three children. The World War II veteran would not be the last to spread such carnage.

Bartolomeo visits Farm Hill School to discuss school safety

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 09:19:28 -0500

Middletown Press: State Sen. Dante Bartolomeo met with city and school officials and parents Monday at Farm Hill School to gather information on school security needs.

Parents Of Massacre Victims United In Grief, Divided On Gun Control

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 09:20:36 -0500

Hartford Courant: Parents of three children killed in the Dec. 14 Newtown massacre gave powerful testimony to state legislators on proposed tougher gun laws at a public hearing that drew an estimated 2,100 people to the state Capitol complex.

Legislators Begin Hearing Gun Control Testimony

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 13:33:13 -0500

Hartford Courant: State legislators began hearing testimony on gun control proposals Monday, as some Newtown families called for new restrictions and the firearms industry warned of damage to the state's economy.

Aurora Shooting Survivors Speak in Hartford

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 09:36:15 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Southbury natives Stephen Barton and Ethan Rodriguez-Torrent are familiar with gunfire, and they brought their story Sunday to the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

Connecticut Sen. Martin Looney readies 17 bills on guns

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 09:32:42 -0500

New Haven Register: State Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney, D-New Haven, will be at the center of the debate on reducing gun violence with 17 proposed bills that expand the ban on assault weapons and the need for permits, and increase the reasons authorities may consider to deny those permits.

Looney Leads The Charge

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 16:27:50 -0500

New Haven Independent: New Haven’s Martin Looney is promising not to leave cities out of the fix as the post-Newtown gun control battle finally begins in earnest at the Capitol,.

Region's legislators praise reversal on women in combat

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 09:48:30 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: The Pentagon’s about-face to allow women to serve in combat positions is being praised by many, including state Sen. Cathy Osten, D-Sprague, and U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, 2nd-District.

The question post-Newtown: How to keep schools safe?

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 09:29:59 -0500

CTMirror: When it comes to security systems at its schools, New Haven officials say cost has never been a factor for their cash-strapped district. It's not just that they prioritize security: The state pays almost the entire bill to install things like cameras, buzzer systems and locks for every classroom.

Senator Seeks To Protect Integrity of Public Campaign Fund

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 09:18:24 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Former Sen. Ernie Newton’s most recent arrest has motivated Sen. Ed Meyer, D-Guilford, to propose legislation prohibiting public officials convicted of corruption from using public campaign funds

Governor's Newtown panel meets for first time

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 14:11:02 -0500

WTNH8: A state prosecutor says Connecticut State Police are still investigating the deadly Newtown school shooting and that "no prosecution is on the horizon."

General Assembly Confirms McDonald

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 16:35:00 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Both chambers of the legislature approved former Democratic state senator Andrew McDonald’s nomination to the state Supreme Court Wednesday.

Lawmakers take first shot at gun-control

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:21:51 -0500

The Darien News: The first piece of state gun-control legislation started making its way through the legislative pipeline Tuesday, around the time that a statewide anti-violence group announced its agenda.

Officials want more safety training, drills in wake of Newtown massacre

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:07:29 -0500

The Day: School systems across Connecticut already have emergency plans, but some lawmakers and school officials say minimum standards, more mandatory drills and additional training should be considered following the deadly massacre last month in Newtown.

More Than Two Dozen Bills In Response To Newtown

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:02:23 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: The deadline to submit legislation has passed and so far Connecticut lawmakers have submitted an estimated 27 bills aimed at preventing gun violence and improving school safety and mental health.

Conn. considers workers' comp for first responders

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:36:32 -0500

Associated Press: Post-traumatic stress was so great for some first responders who arrived at Sandy Hook Elementary School minutes after a gunman killed 20 children and six educators that the Connecticut legislature is considering a measure expanding workers’ compensation to help emergency workers cope.

Legislature Considers Big Changes In Mental Health Policy After Newtown

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 08:55:55 -0500

Hartford Courant: Better behavioral health screening in the public schools. Greater access to mental health services for adolescents and young adults. And a new look at the state's controversial policy barring involuntary outpatient commitment for people with mental illness.

Post-Newtown, advocates hope for clarity on mental health coverage

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 14:45:38 -0500

CT Mirror: It wasn't one of the more headline-grabbing of the president's announcements made this week in response to the shooting at Newtown's Sandy Hook Elementary School, an executive order committing to finalize regulations for the 2008 mental health parity law.

Mattress Recycling Means Savings For Cities and Towns

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 14:40:25 -0500

CT News Junkie: Connecticut lawmakers will try again this year to require mattress recycling by creating a mattress stewardship program. The Environment Committee raised the concept of mattress recycling Friday and supporters are optimistic in its chances for passage.

State budget, business climate topics of legislative breakfast

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 17:35:42 -0500

Middletown Press: State government spending was the topic of the day at the Middlesex Chamber’s legislative breakfast Friday. And the state’s taxpayers are fed up with sending money to Hartford and have it go nowhere, a resident told local lawmakers.

Malloy proposes $200M bioscience investment fund

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:37:39 -0500

Hartford Business Jornal: At a groundbreaking for Jackson Laboratory's new Farmington facility, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Thursday unveiled a new $200 million plan to invest further in the state's growing bioscience industry.

Reaction To President Obama’s Initiatives To Reduce Gun Violence

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 15:20:45 -0500

Hartford Courant: Reaction was extensive and varied to President Barack Obama’s noontime speech Wednesday in which he proposed legislation and announced executive actions intended to reduce gun violence after the Dec. 14 Newtown school massacre.

General Assembly creates its own gun-violence task force

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 11:12:23 -0500

The Day: Eric Coleman, D-Bloomfield, state Sen. Joan Hartley, D-Waterbury, and state Sen. John Fonfara, D-Hartford. Looney said the task force was obligated to reach a consensus before the end of February.

Top Lawmakers Set Ambitious Deadline For Bipartisan Super Committee

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:43:21 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Legislative leaders announced the creation of a bipartisan committee Tuesday tasked with drafting legislation to prevent gun violence and keep children safe in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings.

Stamford Legislators: Unite For Tougher Gun Laws

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 09:56:44 -0500

Stamford Daily Voice: About 100 people were urged to make their voices heard in Hartford if they want the state to enact stricter gun control laws, at a Stand Against Violence Effectively meeting Monday night in Stamford.

Where each state stands on gun-control legislation

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:40:16 -0500

USAToday: Reporters from USA TODAY and Gannett news operations nationwide reached out to governors and legislatures in each state to learn what gun-related proposals might be in the works.

Immigrants gain path to driver’s licenses

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 09:19:14 -0500

Yale Daily News: Last Sunday, 439 people gathered at St. Rose of Lima Church in Fair Haven to celebrate what could be a breakthrough year for undocumented workers in Connecticut

Veterans affairs committee elevated to full standing committee

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 09:17:00 -0500

The Middletown Press: After eight years of “select” temporary status, the General Assembly’s Veterans’ Affairs Committee was elevated last week to permanent “standing” status for the 2013 regular legislative session, and all legislative sessions thereafter.

Connecticut's Reorganization

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 09:11:59 -0500

Inside Higher Ed: The ideas were bold. The execution was quick. The result has left many people -- faculty members, administrators, students, legislators, taxpayers -- skeptical about the effectiveness, if not the underlying strategy, of Connecticut's higher education reorganization.

State Scrapped School Safety Funding Program

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 10:08:00 -0500

Hartford Courant: As the legislature convenes just weeks after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, its focus is sure to include the issue of school security and questions over how to pay for needed upgrades.

Bipartisan Group Of Lawmakers Form Post-Newtown Super Committee

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:45:10 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: In an effort to get the General Assembly headed in one direction, legislative leaders on both sides of the aisle met Wednesday to form a sort of super committee that will inform a legislative response to the shooting in Newtown.

Magazine ban proposal

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 09:25:06 -0500

WTNH-8: The Republican leader in the State Senate says the state can ban high capacity ammunition magazines and a program to buyback the hundreds, possibly thousands in the hands of Connecticut citizens must be considered.

Working Poor In All CT Towns Benefit From Tax Credit

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:44:31 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Working families in every town in the state benefited from the credit and received an average of $601 back from the state after filing their tax return, according to the report. Households claiming the credit had average incomes of about $18,000 a year, which is what a single parent working full-time just above the minimum wage would earn before paying taxes.

Slow Start For Minimum Wage Debate

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:46:13 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: The Labor and Public Employees Committee scrapped plans to raise a bill to increase the state’s minimum wage during its first meeting Thursday after Republican members complained the proposed concepts weren’t screened first with the minority party.

Guns, minimum wage, assisted suicide, flu shots, driver's licenses, drug testing, pets among 2013 bills

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 08:47:25 -0500

CTMirror: Legislators have wasted no time filing bills for the legislative session that began today.

New people take office, unity is stressed

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 14:21:25 -0500

Record-Journal: Lawmakers welcomed some new faces to the General Assembly and bade farewell to others when the 2013 legislative session opened Wednesday.

New Conn. gun laws met with opposition

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 08:58:35 -0500

CBS-Evening News: Connecticut state Democratic Senator Beth Bye decided to push for new state gun laws after going to the funeral of one of Newtown's 6-year-old victims, but as Michelle Miller reports, they have been met by opposition from Republican state Senator John McKinney.

Legislature opens with unity, sadness in shadow of Newtown

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 15:24:03 -0500

CTMirror: The 2013 General Assembly convened Wednesday amid a mix of somberness and optimism as lawmakers recalled both last month's tragic shooting in Newtown as well as the unified response it elicited, both from Connecticut's leaders and its populace.

Williams re-elected Connecticut State Senate president

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 16:18:21 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: The Connecticut Senate has re-elected Democratic Brooklyn Sen. Donald E. Williams Jr. as president.

Gun control top issue for state General Assembly

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 11:51:27 -0500

Norwalk Citizen: Gun control bills prompted by the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy and fixing the state’s broken budget are expected to dominate General Assembly deliberations after lawmakers convene a new session Wednesday.

Ocean Sounds, Bird Habitats, and Key Topics to Legislate

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 11:06:14 -0500

WNPR: Sen. Ed Meyer previews some of the environmental issues that the General Assembly may address during the 2013 legislative session which convenes tomorrow.

Conn. Hispanics to mark political milestones

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 10:56:45 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: Elected Hispanic officials and representatives from the state's Hispanic community and national organizations are marking the political milestones made in Connecticut during the most recent election.

“Dreamer” Immigrants To Be Eligible To Drive

Sun, 06 Jan 2013 15:11:14 -0500

New Haven Independent: When she turns 16 over the next year, Michelle plans to apply for a driver’s license—so her parents, undocumented immigrants, will not be forced to drive terrified of being stopped as they transport her little brother to his critical medical appointments.

Lawmakers have full plate as legislature convenes

Sun, 06 Jan 2013 09:27:11 -0500

The Day: When the 2013 General Assembly convenes Wednesday, gun violence, spending and growth likely will be weighing on lawmakers' minds.

From Budget To Gun Control To Education: Big Issues On Lawmakers' 2013 Plate

Sat, 05 Jan 2013 09:25:11 -0500

Hartford Courant: When state lawmakers open the 2013 legislative session on Wednesday, they will tackle some of the biggest issues facing Connecticut: gun violence, economic development and the budget deficit.

State Helps Hundreds Of Small Companies Expand

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 14:24:24 -0500

One year from the announcement of its first grant, the Small Business Express program has already promised its $100 million to 765 businesses across the state.

Recommendations made to improve access to substance abuse treatment

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 09:34:05 -0500

CTMirror: One in 10 state residents who seek coverage for substance abuse treatment from their insurance company is denied, and the success rate for the few who appeal the decision is very low, says a new report from the legislature's chief investigative panel.

Looney Gets The Post-Newtown Ball Rolling

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 14:23:01 -0500

New Haven Independent: New Haven’s highest-ranking state legislator started the new session by formally introducing a gun-control bill in response to the Newtown massacre—or, rather, an ammunition control bill.

Disabled Conn. voters to receive absentee ballots

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 10:04:50 -0500

WTNH-8: Disabled voters with permanent absentee ballot status will no longer have to apply repeatedly to receive a ballot.

Newtown shooting to be key topic for lawmakers

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 09:38:43 -0500

Journal Inquirer: Just a few weeks ago, it appeared the budget deficit would be the thorniest issue legislators would tackle when they return to the state Capitol next month.

New Year's Day Celebration: 150th Anniversary Of Emancipation Proclamation

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:46:40 -0500

Hartford Courant: Less than two weeks after tolling in remembrance of young lives lost to senseless tragedy, church bells across Connecticut will sound a different emotional chord on New Year's Day.

State Awards $9 Million To Save Open Space In 35 Cities, Towns

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 15:43:21 -0500

Hartford Courant: The state has awarded more than $9 million to preserve open space in 35 cities and towns, the governor's office announced Friday.

Microgrid project deadline nears. Do communities understand the concept?

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 11:17:59 -0500

CTMirror: It was only for a few hours during Tropical Storm Irene, but the William W. Backus Hospital here still got a hard lesson on what losing power in the heat of summer meant.

Senate Majority Hands Out Committee Assignments

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 08:50:17 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Hartford Sen. John Fonfara will replace outgoing Sen. Eileen Daily of Westbrook as co-chair of the legislative committee in charge of revenue and tax policy, according to a document released Monday by Senate Democratic leadership.

Lawmakers Propose A 50% Tax On Bullets

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 10:04:19 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: On Thursday, Sen. Beth Bye, D-West Hartford, and Rep. Bob Godfrey, D-Danbury, called for a series of new proposals they hope the General Assembly will approve during the legislative session that begins next month.

Calls for mental health policy reviews

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 10:02:50 -0500

WTNH-8: One of the many calls for action after 26 lives were taken at Sandy Hook Elementary last Friday is changing how the state and the nation handles mental health.

Legislators pass bipartisan bill to erase budget shortfall

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 08:40:45 -0500

CTMirror: The General Assembly moved quickly Wednesday night to wipe most of the remaining red ink out of the current state budget, relying largely on cuts to social services, but also reducing a wide array of education and tourism initiatives.

Connecticut legislature's upcoming session to focus on gun control, mental health treatment

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:45:14 -0500

New Haven Register: A package of legislation that will look at gun control, mental health measures and school safety is expected to occupy legislators in the upcoming session that until a week ago looked like it would be occupied mainly with budget issues.

A bullet tax in the mix as legislators react to Newtown

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 08:41:20 -0500

CTMirror: One of the gun-control measures to be proposed in January to the Connecticut General Assembly would treat ammunition like cigarettes -- as a health hazard that should be heavily taxed to offset the public costs of gun violence.

Lawmaker To Reintroduce Ban On High Capacity Magazines

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 10:21:01 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: The gunman who carried out the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School used a Bushmaster rifle that belonged to his mother and was equipped with multiple high-capacity magazines that each contained 30 rounds of ammunition, according to state police. He had hundreds of bullets at his disposal.

Osten says shooting lends 'safety zone' bill clout

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 10:34:02 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: State Sen.-elect Cathy Osten plans to sponsor a bill modeled on Montville safety ordinances, and concerns heightened by Friday’s Newtown school massacre will increase the likelihood of its passage, she said.

Mental Health: Finding And Offering Help

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 10:29:35 -0500

Hartford Courant: Resources for helping children and adults cope with traumatic events.

State budget talks press on though there are no 'easy choices'

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 09:59:31 -0500

CTMirror: State officials who toiled behind closed doors last week trying to close a shortfall in the current budget described it as a task like no other in recent history.

Dominion buys Bridgeport fuel cell park in deal valued at $125 million

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:08:35 -0500

CT Post: A missing piece of the city's new fuel cell plant project fell into place Friday, and it's huge. Virginia-based Dominion Resources, one of the country's biggest energy companies, revealed itself as the unnamed financial backer and buyer of the planned 15-megawatt site.

Upgrades approved for Merritt Parkway upgrades

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 10:18:58 -0500

The Hour: A major construction project on the Merritt Parkway is in the works for next year, state Sen. Carlo Leone announced Tuesday.

Mass. slaps NU with $6M storm fine

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 10:18:09 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Massachusetts on Tuesday levied two fines totaling $6.1 million against Northeast Utilities' two electric subsidiaries in the state over their delayed response to the storms of 2011.

Greater Middletown Chorale, ARTFARM, Center for Arts to get state grants

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:26:55 -0500

The state Department of Economic and Community Development has awarded $119,000 in grants to six different Middletown arts organizations.

O’Brien Tech Students Cook With Malloy, Celebrity Chef

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:23:48 -0500

“Today’s event underscores my longstanding commitment to Connecticut’s Vocational Technical High School System and the way it replenishes our workforce with knowledgeable, experienced students like those who cooked today alongside Governor Malloy and Chef Pépin,” State Senator Joseph J. Crisco, Jr. (D-Woodbridge) said.

Stamford gallery celebrates three-year anniversary with '10 Artists, 10 Parties' show

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 09:23:11 -0500

CTPost: Fernando Luis Alvarez was ready to sign a lease on a gallery in Chelsea, the epicenter of the contemporary art world. Instead, he took a chance on a long-empty store front not far from home.

Arts And Culture: Big Business In CT

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:40:37 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: A report released Friday by the Department of Economic and Community Development found that nonprofit arts and culture is big business in the state of Connecticut generating $59.1 million in local and state government revenue in 2010.

Mr. Duff heads to Washington, state senator hears about fiscal cliff

Sun, 09 Dec 2012 10:50:26 -0500

The Hour: State Sen. Bob Duff and others were briefed on the looming "fiscal cliff" by Obama administration officials on Thursday as part of a two-day conference in Washington, D.C.

Sandy Walloped Northeast Economies — But For Some, Recovery Means Business

Sun, 09 Dec 2012 09:36:49 -0500

Hartford Courant: Sandy ushered in dramatic busts across the Northeast but some booms, too, bringing banner years to particular industries while pushing others toward economic ruin.

Busway Changing The Landscape

Sat, 08 Dec 2012 10:15:27 -0500

Hartford Courant: Behind the state Armory in Hartford, workers operate the backhoes and cranes that are carving a two-story retaining wall beside the Amtrak rail line.

University of Connecticut Unveils Master Plan For Tech Park

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 09:38:04 -0500

Hartford Courant: The vision for a long-delayed technology park at the University of Connecticut's main campus in Storrs encompasses nearly a million square feet of research, laboratory and business incubator space, a plan the university expects will raise its profile as a research center.

State lawmakers call for generators for the elderly

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:03:15 -0500

The Hour: Some Connecticut state lawmakers are calling for generators to be installed at federally subsidized housing units out of concern for elderly residents.

Reindeer at Dzen Tree Farm: A new family tradition

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:01:58 -0500

Reminder News: The company slogan for Dzen Tree Farm in South Windsor is "Where family traditions are made," and Christmas tree shoppers have an opportunity to begin a tradition that Connecticut residents haven't had for years: the chance to visit reindeer. Mistletoe and Belle, two female reindeer, are on display now through Dec. 23 at the top of the hill at Dzen Tree Farm.

Environmentalists Worry About Cuts To State Parks

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:05:30 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: At the annual Connecticut League of Conservation Voters meeting Thursday, Sen. Ed Meyer, D-Branford, expressed concern that closing state parks would be on the table next year as the state stares down a two-year $2.2 billion deficit.

So, what's an exchange?

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 11:26:50 -0500

CT Mirror: It's a major piece of "Obamacare," and set to debut in just under 10 months. But unless you've been paying close attention, you might not be totally clear on exactly what a health insurance exchange is. Here's a primer.

CT seeks up to 120 to fill storm-cleanup slots

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 09:57:28 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut is ready to hand out temporary paid storm-cleanup assignments to as many as 120 jobless state residents, authorities say.

State program credited for putting 174 area unemployed back to work

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 09:42:45 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: A little-known component of the General Assembly’s package of legislation approved last year to spur job creation in the state has resulted in 174 Eastern Connecticut residents finding their way back to work full time since March, economic development officials said this week.

Bridgeport Program For Long-term Jobless Goes National

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 09:50:16 -0500

Hartford Courant: A Bridgeport program launched a year ago to put the long-term unemployed back to work is going national with $1.5 million in donations from the Walmart and Citigroup foundations.

Sandy victims have month to file with FEMA

Sat, 01 Dec 2012 10:27:32 -0500

Norwalk Hour: Connecticut residents with home damage from Superstorm Sandy have one more month to file for individual disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Salary Subsidies Result in Hundreds of Hires: Step Up Gives A Hand Up

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:35:11 -0500

Hartford Courant: The Connecticut Casket Company, housed in an old American Thread building just outside Willimantic's downtown, had just one employee besides the co-owners when they discovered the advantages of a state employment program.

Recycling Connecticut Jobs, Thousands of Them

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 09:06:52 -0500

Hartford Courant: With recycling as a way of life and an industry, a new report from the Connecticut Economic Resource Center says it’s responsible for 4,790 jobs and $738 million in annual value in Connecticut — directly and indirectly.

Malloy seeks $3.2B from feds for CT powerline work

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 09:19:37 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said Thursday he plans to seek $3.2 billion from the federal government for infrastructure hardening, following the extensive damage the state felt from Tropical Storm Sandy and other storms in recent years.

Legislators Of The Year honored By Connecticut Alliance Of YMCAs

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 09:47:19 -0500

Hartford Courant: The Connecticut Alliance of YMCAs, the affinity and policy making group representing 23 independent corporate YMCA's and its 41 branches, honored its Legislators of the Year at its annual dinner held recently. Honored at the event were Daniel J. Rovero, representing Connecticut's 51st Assembly District, and Eric Coleman, representing Connecticut's 2nd Senate District.

Our View: A well deserved honor for these local veterans

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 09:44:14 -0500

Norwich Bulletin: This morning we send our congratulations out to Paul Francis Dillion of Gales Ferry, Manuel “Manny” Cardoza Jr. of Preston and Herbert Thomas Schacht of Quaker Hill, and the nine other Connecticut veterans who were officially inducted into Connecticut’s Veterans Hall of Fame Wednesday.

Malloy announces $170 million in Conn. budget cuts

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:09:22 -0500

The Hour: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Wednesday unveiled $170 million in spending reductions across state agencies, the first part of a plan to close Connecticut's $365 million shortfall in the current year's budget.

State Senator Edith Prague to be honored at GSOFCT's 2012 Breakfast Badge

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:05:25 -0500

The Day: Girl Scouts of Connecticut will host the 2012 Breakfast Badge on Friday, December 7, from 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. at The Hartford Club in downtown Hartford. The organization is recognizing the work and achievements of State Senator Edith Prague (D-19), who is retiring after 30 years of public service.

12 Conn. veterans to be inducted in Hall of Fame

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:49:19 -0500

Norwalk Hour: State officials are honoring a dozen more inductees to the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame.

State legislators anticipate next session

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 10:42:36 -0500

Yale Daily News: Three Connecticut lawmakers met with the Yale College Democrats Monday evening to discuss the upcoming legislative session and push for more student involvement in enacting liberal reforms on the state level.

Veteran Denied Benefits

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:18:09 -0500

NBC30: Many veterans rely on state benefits to help during these tough financial times, but it turns out not every veteran is treated the same in the state of Connecticut.

Manchester Raising Money To Help Disabled Veteran

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:10:59 -0500

Hartford Courant: Purple Heart Homes is working with local officials, including state Sen. Steve Cassano, who was responsible for bringing the organization to Manchester. The group, founded in North Carolina in 2008, has so far developed 15 homes for war veterans.

Conn. veterans can have status on driver's license

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 12:54:47 -0500

Norwalk Hour: Veterans in Connecticut can now apply to have their military status marked on their driver's licenses or state-issued ID cards.

Our View: Lets not overlook Main Street this year

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:58:14 -0500

The Bulletin: American Express created Small Business Saturday in 2010 as a national promotion of local businesses, capitalizing on the shopping trends of consumers the weekend after Thanksgiving. Nudged between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the aim of Small Business Saturday is to encourage consumers not to overlook the small businesses in their communities.

State officials enjoy a little holiday unity on the budget deficit

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 15:01:03 -0500

CTMirror: The state Capitol found a little bit of holiday bipartisanship this week as legislative leaders from both sides called for quick action to reduce the $365 million deficit in the current budget.

Energy Debate Will Continue Through New Year

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 11:58:26 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Lawmakers aren’t ready to jump in just yet and mediate the dispute between heating oil dealers and utilities over the price of natural gas and oil, but they say the current dialogue on energy will play a central role in next year’s legislative session.

Stark Elementary students honor veterans with song, praise

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 11:11:17 -0500

The Stamford Times: Alfred Rozelle was one of many veterans who came to Julia A. Stark Elementary School to watch his granddaughter and her third grade classmates honor distinguished veterans Monday.

At Childhood Obesity Forum, Talk of Twinkies and Intervention

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:20:40 -0500

Hartford Courant: State Public Health Commissioner Jewel Mullen called for silence in memory of the Twinkie on Monday, a lighter moment during a forum on childhood obesity that drew community health advocates and school nutrition directors from across the state.

Jackson Lab and its new CEO build a better mouse

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 11:29:37 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: The Jackson Laboratory isn't letting any moss grow under its planned $1.1 billion laboratory expansion in Farmington.

Face the State: Democrat Success in Campaign 2012

Sun, 18 Nov 2012 13:02:09 -0500

WFSB-3: State Senator-elect Catherine Osten (D-Sprague) joins Connecticut Democrats Executive Director Jonathan Harris and "Face The State" host Dennis House on Sunday, November 18 for a discussion of the Democrats' big wins on Election Day and various other legislative issues.

An Industry Is Born: Closeup Shot At 5 Years of Film Tax Credits

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:10:31 -0500

Hartford Courant: Five years after the program offered its first bounties, a detailed look at the $364 million in payouts shows that a sports and entertainment media industry is now firmly ensconced here, proving early skeptics wrong. In the first nine months of 2012 alone, production companies earned $85 million of the credits.

Vets Get A 2nd Chance

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 14:17:04 -0500

New Haven Independent: The next time a veteran gets picked up on a minor crime, he or she will get a new chance to skip the slammer and seek help instead.

Conn. offers variety of aid to help get veterans hired

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 12:27:43 -0500

Republican American: For veterans hunting for work, and for employers interested in hiring them, Connecticut has many ways to help. From targeted job fairs and training grants to tax credits -- both state and federal -- there is plenty of support to help veterans both young and older who want to find a job or a career.

Connecticut legislator warns: Elderly are vulnerable to sexual predators

Sat, 10 Nov 2012 12:26:56 -0500

Torrington Register Citizen: State Sen. Edith Prague, a longtime supporter of senior rights, said Friday she favors a new town ordinance that aims to keep registered sex offenders away from the town’s elderly and would like to see it become a statewide mandate.

History Made Twice: Two Latinos Heading to State Senate

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 09:27:04 -0500

The big news of Election Day was not one but two Latinos were historically elected to the State Senate for the first time in 194 years. Bridgeport state Rep. Andres Ayala was widely expected to be elected but Middletown Republican Art Linares pulled off victory in a district formerly held by a Democrat.

Meriden, Middletown voters sank Suzio

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 15:19:31 -0500

With nearly 40,000 votes cast in the 13th Senate district, Democrat Dante Bartolomeo edged Republican incumbent Len Suzio by the slimmest of margins. Democrats had a history of dominating the district before Suzio won a special election in 2011, and the race was expected to be close.

19th Senate: Osten big winner

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 14:35:54 -0500

The Day: Democratic Sprague First Selectman Cathy Osten won the bitter 19th state Senate District campaign battle over Republican Christopher Coutu to succeed 18-year incumbent Democrat Edith Prague in the 10-town district.

Bartolomeo defeats Suzio in 13th district

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 14:47:13 -0500

Meriden Record-Journal: Just minutes after vote totals for the 13th state Senate District began coming into Democratic headquarters, the room fell silent, with tallies heavily favoring Republican incumbent Leonard F. Suzio.

Rep. Ayala elected as 1st Latino in Conn. Senate

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 14:33:18 -0500

AP: Andres Ayala (eye-AHL'-uh) Jr. of Bridgeport has won election to become the first Latino member of Connecticut's state Senate.

No surprises in state senate races

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 15:10:39 -0500

CT Post: There were few surprises in the race for the region's state senate seats.

Democrats retain advantages in state House and Senate

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 15:12:48 -0500

CT Mirror: Democrats played defense on Election Day, retaining their advantages in both chambers of the General Assembly and narrowly escaping one scenario in which they would have lost significant control over the next state budget.

Merrill hopes surging voter interest wasn't weakened by Hurricane Sandy

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:24:19 -0500

CT Mirror: With 100,000 new voters registered in the past six weeks and power restored to all polling places, Connecticut's chief elections official said she hopes other aftereffects of Hurricane Sandy won't keep voters from casting ballots Tuesday.

Region suffers CL&P déjà vu

Sun, 04 Nov 2012 09:44:01 -0500

The Day: One year after Connecticut Light & Power Co. earned double-barreled condemnation for its slow response to two large storms, local officials say the region's major electricity provider's Hurricane Sandy performance hasn't silenced critics.

Power restoration efforts by UI, CL&P good, but not enough, some complain

Sun, 04 Nov 2012 09:40:43 -0500

Shoreline Times: As power outages in some areas across the state approach the one-week mark following Hurricane Sandy, Connecticut politicians are growing increasingly vocal in their criticism of the state’s two largest electric companies.

"They Can't Climb On A Roof In Newington And See What's Going On In Madison!"

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 16:38:54 -0400

Madison Patch: State and town officials have expressed to CL&P, in very clear terms, their high level of frustration with the pace of power restoration in Madison. While town officials are asking for more resources, town workers including Madison Police Chief Jack Drumm are clearing limbs from trees tangled in wires--wires that they are _pretty sure__ are not live.

Haberek Calls The CL&P Response Unacceptable

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 17:40:20 -0400

Stonington Patch: Stonington First Selectman Ed Haberek, State Senator Andrew Maynard and State Representative Diana Urban said Thursday they were upset with the CL&P response to Hurricane Sandy and didn’t understand there has been so little progress in restoring power.

Relief, excitement when utility truck spotted in neighborhood; many still waiting

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 17:37:25 -0400

The Day: "We are going on day four without power," said Sen. Andrew Maynard, D- Stonington. "What is taking so long if we have the necessary resources in place? We are just trying to get straight answers."

Frustration Mounts In Stonington

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 10:39:06 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Hurricane Sandy has been over fewer than two days, but in Stonington, a coastal town where nearly everyone lost power, residents and officials are already frustrated by a lack of communication and resources from their electricity supplier.

Malloy tours damage in Guilford, Madison, Clinton, Westbrook

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 18:12:01 -0400

NH Register: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy made stops in Madison and Guilford Wednesday as part of his tour of hurricane damage in shoreline towns in the southeastern part of the state. Also in attendance of the tour were U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2, and state Sen. Ed Meyer, D-Guilford.

Officials inspect damage; feds issue disaster declaration

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 10:02:05 -0400

The Day: Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman, U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2nd District, state Sen. Andrea Stillman, D-Waterford, and other officials toured the storm-ravaged shoreline in southeastern Connecticut Tuesday afternoon, listening to homeowners' stories. They also visited the American Red Cross regional shelter in East Lyme, where 230 people rode out the storm.

State relaxes many deadlines as residents grapple with storm aftermath

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 09:58:01 -0400

CT Mirror: Connecticut residents, workers and businesses will get a break on a number of deadlines this month as the state begins to repair the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy.

Plan B for voting next week? Polling places may be changed

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 09:59:29 -0400

It's too early to tell how Hurricane Sandy will affect elections in Connecticut next Tuesday, but that hasn't stopped officials from thinking about a plan B.

Kevin Hunt: The Best $75 A Connecticut Homeowner Can Spend

Sat, 27 Oct 2012 08:24:36 -0400

Hartford Courant: Nothing like a little autumnal chill and diminished daylight to get people thinking about their home's inadequate insulation, leaky ducts and watt-guzzling incandescent bulbs.

A billionaire's Super PAC takes aim at General Assembly

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 08:28:39 -0400

CT Mirror: Never has a $37,969 campaign expenditure so rattled Connecticut politicians. Democrats said Thursday it is the first significant entry of a "Super PAC" in a state legislative race.

Guv Picks Grove To Help "Reboot" CT

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 08:32:25 -0400

New Haven Independent: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy popped into one of New Haven’s hotbeds of innovation Thursday to announce that he’s helping it more than double in size—and become part of a new turbo-charged statewide network of startup centers.

Tax Credits, Education Helping Veterans Find Jobs

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 09:49:18 -0400

Hartford Courant: The government has tried to use tax credits to encourage businesses to hire unemployed veterans, first in the stimulus bill, with a maximum credit of $2,400, and then in the Returning Heroes and Wounded Warriors Tax Credit, which took effect 11 months ago.

Sen. Martin Looney honored by Connecticut Voices for Children

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 11:27:15 -0400

NewsTimes: "State Sen. Martin Looney, D-New Haven, Hamden, was recognized this week by Connecticut Voices for Children at its 11th “First for Kids Awards” ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 17.

Wounded vet and Purple Heart Homes honored

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 14:31:30 -0400

Reminder News: The sacrifice of a wounded veteran and the organization that is renovating a home in Manchester for her were honored by U.S. Sen. Joseph Lieberman (I) on Monday, Oct. 15, at Manchester Community College. Staff Sgt. Sandra Lee was added to Joe's Heroes list, as was John Gallina, co-founder of Purple Heart Homes.

Construction On Jackson Laboratory Begins

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 10:56:49 -0400

CT News Junkie: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and University of Connecticut President Susan Herbst were on hand Wednesday to watch as construction workers began pulling down building on the UConn Health Center campus to make room for the new Jackson Laboratory.

Milford seniors offered tips on avoiding scams

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 12:26:38 -0400

New Haven Register: When Sally Hensley received a call from her grandson asking for $4,600 in bail money, she ran to the bank and sent money via a wire service. However, she later realized she fell victim to a scam that targets seniors across the state and nation.

State vo-tech schools gearing up their manufacturing program

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 16:13:00 -0400

CT Mirror: For Ashley Roman, the choice to go into Platt Technical High School's precision manufacturing program was an easy one. "It's fun. It's interesting, and it offers a lot of jobs," said the junior from Milford.

United Way celebrates new system for thwarting homelessness

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 14:23:18 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: State Sen. Andrew Maynard, D-Stonington, was honored for his support of the state grant, being given a certificate of appreciation by Mason and Bates. He called providers to keep looking for ways to address homelessness.

Guilford business owner lauds Connecticut jobs program

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:25:34 -0400

NH Register: “From helmets to hard hats” is still the slogan used to help lower the state’s 8.9 percent unemployment rate and help create much needed new jobs, said Adam Joseph, a Democratic state senate spokesman.

State Seeks To Divert Veterans From Jail To Treatment

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 10:05:07 -0400

Hartford Courant: When the state Department of Veterans' Affairs recently advertised a job opening for a veterans' service officer, 73 veterans applied, many of them younger men and women who had served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Senator Edward Meyer Visits Royal Printing

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 17:02:21 -0400

Guilford Patch: Just a few hours ago, Royal Printing owner Lowis Sweady welcomed Senator Edward Meyer to his business to honor the one year anniversary of a bipartisan Jobs Bill and to tout the STEP-Up program, a new employment and job training program created under the bill. It also particularly focuses on unemployed Veterans.

Landmark day for students at marine magnet school in Groton

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 16:51:34 -0400

The Day: Restaurant patrons in Connecticut may soon see locally-raised fish on the menu thanks to the work of some enterprising high school students in Groton and a bill passed this year that allows aquaculture facilities to sell to seafood distributors and restaurants.

Carla’s Pasta VP: 'In Connecticut, The Government Works'

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 09:24:00 -0400

CT News Junkie: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Daniel C. Esty said Carla’s Pasta in South Windsor is the “perfect example” of what they are trying to encourage with their new energy strategy.

Local officials tout STEP-Up program

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 11:08:41 -0400

Norwalk Citizen: Ed Rodriguez, president of Penmar Industries, a small manufacturing company in Norwalk, is a big fan of a state program designed to help small business owners hire people.

Malloy dedicates center at QVCC: Businesses support new training program

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:25:03 -0400

Calling the program “an important part of Connecticut’s future,” Gov. Dannel P. Malloy joined education and political leaders Wednesday to dedicate the new Advanced Manufacturing Center at Quinebaug Valley Community College.

Getting Rid of ‘Greasy’ Stigma

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 16:53:04 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Catherine Smith told the legislature’s newly formed bipartisan Manufacturing Caucus that they need to make manufacturing more appealing to young people if it wants the industry to thrive in the state.

'Next Five': Charter Communications To Move HQ To Stamford

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 16:59:41 -0400

Hartford Courant: Charter Communications, the fourth-largest cable provider in the country, is the ninth company in Connecticut's 'Next Five' program, investing $10 million dollars and bringing 200 jobs to a new corporate headquarters in Stamford.

Connecticut's new coastal management law takes effect Monday

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 09:33:39 -0400

New Haven Register: Connecticut’s new coastal-management law — aiming to protect the shore from flooding and severe weather, events which are expected to increase over time — takes effect today.

Frito-Lay to expand plant in Killingly

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 16:46:06 -0400

New Haven Register: Frito-Lay North America Inc., a division of PepsiCo, will expand its distribution and manufacturing plant in Killingly. The plant, which employs more than 600 full-time employees, services Connecticut and other Northeast retailers, and exports products for the military overseas.

Strengthened Domestic Violence Laws Take Effect Monday

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 09:40:25 -0400

Hartford Courant: The widely publicized medical marijuana law is set to take effect Monday, along with a series of lesser-known domestic violence reforms that could help thousands of people.

Railroad On Verge of Rehabbing Bridge From Hartford To East Hartford

Sat, 29 Sep 2012 09:30:29 -0400

Hartford Courant: Work could start as early as this winter to rehabilitate a key rail bridge that links about a dozen east-of-the-river companies with the rest of the nation's freight network.

Plainfield business to receive $1.5M state loan

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:28:53 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: The state will provide a $1.5 million loan to help C&M Technologies acquire more manufacturing equipment for its Wauregan plant and create new jobs, a move town officials believe will help keep the company in town.

New Haven getting $53.4M grant to support teachers and administrators

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:21:18 -0400

New Haven Register: “These funds will build upon the success of New Haven’s nationally recognized school reform effort and will help the school district attract, develop and retain the best educators both in the classroom and in leadership roles,” said state Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney, D-New Haven, who wrote to U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan in July urging him to consider New Haven’s application.

Middletown up for state bond grants

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:11:41 -0400

Middletown Press: State Sen. Paul Doyle, D-Wethersfield, announced Thursday that the Bond Commission is expected to approve his request for state funds to erect a veteran’s museum building in Veterans Memorial Park that will house educational exhibits, materials and meetings associated with military veterans in the region. The money will help to finance the construction of an approximately 1,800-square-foot, modular museum in the park on Old Mill Road.

Ceremony celebrates construction of new high-tech magnet school

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 13:09:57 -0400

Reminder News: What has been known as the Pathways to Technology Magnet School for the last decade, operating out of temporary quarters in Windsor for the last seven years, will soon have a new name and a new high-tech building in a new town.

Scientists tell lawmakers: Stem cell initiative producing partnerships, breakthroughs

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 09:36:00 -0400

CT Mirror: Leading academic and industry researchers described breakthroughs they are making in building new lungs, treating epilepsy and repairing heart defects and the impact that stem cell research is already having on the state's economy during a legislative forum Monday.

HCC plans future as enrollment hits all-time high

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 10:22:17 -0400

Connecticut Post: Housatonic's enrollment is 6,097 students. The college has opened its doors to qualified city high school students and has a new manufacturing program designed to fill skilled factory jobs in the state.

Lab at UConn Health Center meeting jobs goal

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 10:24:31 -0400

AP: The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine says it’s meeting its goals for job creation and facilities planning and design, as it operates in a temporary space at the University of Connecticut Health Center.

Veterans in need gather at Stand Down

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 11:50:54 -0400

WTNH-8: Over 1,000 needy Connecticut veterans are expected to attend today's annual Stand Down at the State Veteran's Home Campus in Rocky Hill.

Cafemantic owner gets loan for fixes, updates

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 09:40:29 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Andrew Gutt always had a grander vision for Cafémantic. Gutt opened the downtown cafe in late 2009 and turned it into a Willimantic hot spot, but he had more in mind. Thanks to the state’s Small Business Express Program, it’s time for Gutt to turn the vision into a reality.

CT Light and Power workers: Staff reductions putting state at risk

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:09:59 -0400

CT Post: State Senate President Donald Williams, D-Brooklyn, said he supports the union demands. "We need to stand with you and make sure the reforms we put into place [after the 2011 storms] were not just words on a page but actual protections for the people of Connecticut."

Women Confront Retirement Security, Family Leave Issues

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 09:25:24 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Women earn $2.4 trillion annually, but despite those gains women are at an increased risk of dying alone and in poverty, according to one financial planner.

Questions Raised After Cell Phone Confiscated

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 08:54:27 -0400

NBC-CT: Questions are being raised after a Middletown police sergeant confiscated the phone of a bystander who was recording police ticketing a man outside a bar last month.

Frito-Lay Planning $38 Million Expansion In Killingly

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 15:22:45 -0400

Hartford Courant: The maker and distributor of Fritos, Doritos and Lay's Potato Chips will receive up to $4 million in tax credits and exemptions from the state to outfit its expanded warehouse in Killingly with high-tech distribution equipment.

Pepperidge Farm offers taste of innovation

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:16:18 -0400

Connecticut Post: The smell of innovation wafted through the Pepperidge Farm headquarters Wednesday afternoon, Aromas from some of the 22 new products the company is introducing this fall -- including Milan Slices Peppermint, Pumpkin Spice Swirl Bread, Pumpkin Cheesecake Soft Cookies and Simply Natural Honey Oat bread -- filled the culinary kitchen and cookie bar of its new 34,000-square-foot innovation center during a grand opening celebration.

State Democrats: Corporate donations threatening democracy

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 09:14:35 -0400

Connecticut Post: The state's Democratic controlled General Assembly is asking Congress to pass a constitutional amendment that reverses Citizens United, the controversial Supreme Court decision that opened political campaigns to a flood of corporate money.

State steps up for owners of small businesses

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 09:07:25 -0400

Connecticut Post: Owners of small businesses were put through their paces early Wednesday morning as Carmen Nieves had them doing calisthenics of sorts to prove that their companies are eligible for participation in a state-run hiring incentive program.

Glastonbury Housing Authority To Make Improvements To Studio Apartments At Village Green

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 13:47:38 -0400

Hartford Courant: It's easy forMaria Daniel to give a tour to visitors to her studio apartment at the town's Village Green retirement community. She just spins like a ballerina and points out the kitchen, living room/bedroom and bathroom in the 295-square-foot apartment.

Conn. conference to highlight state jobs program

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 09:45:31 -0400

WTNH-8: State officials are inviting employers to attend a conference about a state training and employment program.

Incentives bring sports media companies to Conn.

Sat, 08 Sep 2012 09:36:36 -0400

Wall Street Journal: ESPN began work last week on a new parking lot on the southern side of its 120-acre campus in Bristol. The sports media giant has promised more than 200 new jobs over the next five years as part of a major expansion, and, spokesman Mike Soltys said, it needs somewhere for all its new employees to put their cars.

EDITORIAL: Schools Tackling Bullies, But Can't Do It Alone

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 09:43:08 -0400

Hartford Courant: Bullying in school is a serious, widespread problem. According to the General Assembly's Commission on Children, 25 percent of Connecticut high school students say they have been bullied.

Survey finds manufacturing thriving in Connecticut; other businesses struggle more

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 09:18:18 -0400

CT Mirror: Two percent of Connecticut businesses are very optimistic about their economic recovery, and 15 percent still consider the state to be an ideal place to do business, according to a 2012 survey of businesses in the state.

Jackson Lab, UConn leaders see a genomic powerhouse in their collaboration at future research facility in Farmington

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 09:20:54 -0400

CT Mirror: Leaders from Jackson Laboratory and the University of Connecticut urged an auditorium packed with biologists and researchers Thursday to pair up and share ideas to build one of the most innovative genomics program in the country.

East Hartford Mayor, State Senator Applaud Environmental Office Solutions

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:01:25 -0400

Hartford Courant : East Hartford Mayor Marcia Leclerc and State Sen. Gary LeBeau were among the crowd that gathered to celebrate Environmental Office Solutions' certification and compliance achievements today. They spoke highly about the positive impact these certifications have on the company, the town and the region.

Early childhood ed, family resource centers, get boost in Norwalk

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 09:38:47 -0400

Norwalk Citizen: As a result of new school readiness and family resource funding in Norwalk, Monisha Gibson, director of the Naramake Family Resource Center, said she is able to increase the number of children served, hire more staff, including a bilingual staffer and positive youth development coordinator, and offer a 5-percent discount to returning families.

Connecticut Looks to Airport as a Business Draw

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 17:25:31 -0400

New York Times: For more than a year, Martin Seifert, president of Nufern, a fiber optics company based in East Granby, Conn., felt like the most beautiful girl at the dance. With the purchase of a small company in Maryland in 2010, he started scouting places to expand his labs and found himself being wooed by economic development officials from Connecticut, Maryland and Canada.

State commentary -- Expand 'First Five'

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 10:36:35 -0400

The North Haven Citizen: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's "First Five" program, despite its imperfections, has achieved more than enough economic-development success to warrant its continuance beyond preliminary goals.

Bonding Commission OKs $750K For Hartford Street Work

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 10:27:00 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state bond commission has allocated $750,000 for the city to help fund streetscape improvements on Wethersfield Avenue.

DECD eyes loan expansion

Mon, 03 Sep 2012 14:04:17 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: The state's Small Business Express loan program has garnered so much interest that state officials may consider asking lawmakers next year to provide more funding and extend the $100 million program.

With New School Year Comes Another Attempt To Curb Bullying

Sat, 01 Sep 2012 09:26:06 -0400

Hartford Courant: Bullying has been a target of Connecticut educators and lawmakers since at least 2002, when a 12-year-old hanged himself after being repeatedly being picked on at school.

State Money Helps Farm Expansion

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:00:00 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The bipartisan jobs package passed last October contained a number of programs aimed at expanding manufacturing in Connecticut. But also buried in the law was a provision to help the state’s farmers grow their businesses. On Friday, a Glastonbury farm was awarded the program’s first grant.

State funds expected for 4 infrastructure improvement projects in New Haven, West Haven

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 09:54:07 -0400

New Haven Register: State funding will be allocated to four infrastructure improvement projects in New Haven and West Haven, state Sen. Toni Harp, D-New Haven, announced Thursday.

Officials gather for opening of veterans' office

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:55:51 -0400

Milford Mirror: It was a celebration for veterans recently when United States Representative Rosa DeLauro, Senator Gayle Slossberg, and Dr. Linda Schwartz, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans' Affairs, joined Mayor Benjamin Blake, veterans and representatives from the Milford Senior Center at the opening of Milford's Veterans' Office of Advocacy and Assistance at Parsons Government Center, 2nd floor, 70 West River Street.

Gateway opens downtown New Haven campus

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:01:00 -0400

New Haven Register: With the cut of a blue ribbon, the new Gateway Community College officially opened its doors Wednesday and students flooded inside.

Digital Divide Targeted

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 08:49:35 -0400

New Haven Independent: Nearly all the families at Rance Smith’s Mauro-Sheridan Science, Technical, and Communications School have home computers. But four or five of his friends who go to the Wexler-Grant neighborhood school don’t.

A Year Later, Storm Irene Blows In Winds Of Change

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 09:40:50 -0400

Branford Eagle: State Sen. Ed Meyer (D-Guilford) met with local officials and residents in Short Beach last Thursday to talk about new legislation that has been enacted since Irene. Meyer, who chairs the Senate’s Environment Committee, helped lead passage of the Coastal Management Bill, which was signed into law in June. “This legislation strikes a balance between preparing for future hurricanes and rising sea levels, while at the same time protecting property owners’ rights,” Meyer said.

Tropical Storm Irene, 1 Year Later

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 11:43:27 -0400

CTNewJunkie: This week will mark the one year anniversary of Tropical Storm Irene, the storm that killed two Connecticut residents, swept seaside homes into the ocean, and left hundreds of thousands of people without power.

Wall Street Place development to get boost from state

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 11:16:11 -0400

Norwalk Citizen: State Sen. Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) today announced a major step forward for POKO Partners' Wall Street Place downtown development--the State Bond Commission is expected to approve $5 million in funding for Phase 1 of the project when it meets in Hartford next Friday, Aug. 31.

Conn. learns lessons from Tropical Storm Irene

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 09:21:30 -0400

NECN: When Irene came ashore in Branford, Conn. a year ago, a breakwater didn't do much good against the storm surge and people who live here say there's another kind of infrastructure that could be even more important.

Education reform act brings new family resource centers to New Haven, Hamden

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 09:19:29 -0400

New Haven Register: Senate Majority Leader Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven, on Wednesday announced that funding has become available to open more school-based family resource centers in New Haven and Hamden. Also, the act will provide more preschool opportunities for 3- and 4-year-olds in Hamden and Ansonia, according to Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, D-Woodbridge.

Bridgeport recycling facility hungry for more mattresses

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:13:00 -0400

CT Mirror: At a new, 14,500-square-foot facility in Bridgeport's South End, three men spend their weekdays deconstructing old mattresses to be recycled...Connecticut lawmakers this year considered legislation to require mattress recycling.

Looney and Harp Say State Incentive Program Will Spur Economic Development Initiatives in New Haven

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 15:36:11 -0400

State Senate Majority Leader Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senator Toni N. Harp (D-New Haven) today said funding from a state efficiency incentive program will help build upon New Haven’s ongoing economic development initiatives.

Governor Praises Okay Industries As A 'Connecticut Success Story'

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 11:33:12 -0400

Berlin Patch: New Britain-based business opens 63,000 square foot facility in Berlin. Okay Industries is developing a 63,000 square foot medical engineering and manufacturing facility to consolidate and grow its medical components business in Berlin.

Wall signers welcome new Windham Hospital health center

Tue, 14 Aug 2012 12:35:53 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Standing in what will one day be Windham Hospital’s new cancer care center, Steve Larcen predicted that the future of health care is being built on the hospital’s campus.

WWII veterans lauded for sacrifice

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 14:35:58 -0400

Newstimes: While history perhaps better remembers the exploits of American infantry and pilots in the assault of Iwo Jima, aviators who made aerial raids of Chichi-jima also faced a high probability of becoming war casualties, Donald Kiggins, a former World War II fighter pilot said.

Connecticut MADD award to be named after state senator

Sun, 12 Aug 2012 14:11:57 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: The Connecticut chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving is permanently naming its award honoring "community champions" after longtime state Sen. Edith Prague, who is retiring at the end of this year.

Local hero honored at VFW Post 75 breakfast in Middletown

Sun, 12 Aug 2012 14:32:30 -0400

Middletown Press: Veterans of Foreign War Post 75 honored another local hero on July 28 during a breakfast at the legion hall on Bernie O’Rourke Drive.

Listen to the Two-Storm Panel

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 14:21:30 -0400

Stamford Advocate: Another storm, more people without power, including thousands of Stamford residents and the entire town of Greenwich.

Help for small businesses in Norwalk

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 09:26:05 -0400

The Hour: State Senator Bob Duff joined the Greater Norwalk and Darien Chambers of Commerce and held a Small-Business Expo on Wednesday at the Hilton Garden Inn in Norwalk.

Conn. Valley Bindery gets $50K grant for equipment

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 09:54:46 -0400

New Britain Herald: State Sen. Terry Gerratana, D-New Britain, toured the Connecticut Valley Bindery at One Hartford Square Friday. Gerratana inspected the facility that was recently awarded a $50,000 Small Business Express grant by the state. The senator toured the facility with bindery owner, Kevin Hubert; the family-owned bindery has been in the finishing business for more than 25 years.

Glastonbury Council OKs $12 Million Riverfront Park Expansion Plan

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 09:26:48 -0400

Hartford Courant: With some calling it a chance to "create a gateway to the Connecticut River," the town council voted 8-1 Tuesday to approve a proposed $12 million expansion of Riverfront Park that will reconnect the town with the historic waterway.

Shoreline task force discusses rising sea levels

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 09:49:13 -0400

The Day: Members of the state's Shoreline Preservation Task Force heard concerns about rising sea levels, endangered beaches and restrictive regulations on private seawall repairs during a public hearing Monday night at the University of Connecticut's Avery Point campus.

Guilford Wins Affordable Housing Grant

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 09:26:53 -0400

Guilford Patch: The $2 million in state funds will be used to build 9 units of affordable housing for seniors.

Business Fueled By Great Idea, Business Experience, Friends And Family, Gets Boost From State

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 13:34:25 -0400

Madison Patch: Small business express grant to North Madison-Guilford business one of many ways that state is helping small businesses create jobs, Sen. Ed Meyer says.

Old CT Transit HQ For Sale

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 09:38:09 -0400

NH Independent: State Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney said the idea behind the jobs bill was to turn abandoned state properties into jobs creators and put them back on the tax rolls. He called the CT Transit lot a good fit because of its size and its “extraordinarily good highway access.” Exit 6 of I-91 spits out right at the property.

How Lawmakers Spend Their Summer Vacation

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 12:56:51 -0400

Manchester Patch: Did you ever wonder what members of the Connecticut General Assembly do during the summer months when the legislature is no longer in session?

Officials Promote Mortgage Assistance Programs at Norwalk Courthouse

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 12:46:34 -0400

Norwalk Patch: Senator Bob Duff and a cadre of political representatives held a gathering Tuesday afternoon to discuss the $21 million influx of fund into the Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (EMAP) after a $25 billion settlement with five mortgate lenders accused of predatory practices.

Study says state business tax climate is relatively rosy

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 09:08:39 -0400

CTMirror: A new study shows Connecticut businesses faced one of the lowest tax burdens in the nation in mid-2011, eclipsed by just two other states, when those taxes are compared with their productivity.

Progressive political group cites Duff as 'leader'

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 10:51:05 -0400

Darien News: State Sen. Bob Duff, a Norwalk Democrat whose district includes part of Darien, has been selected a "rising leader" by the group, NewDEAL, a recently organized national group that describes itself as committed to "pro-growth progressive" causes.

A new breed of entrepreneur brings passion to Connecticut business

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 12:38:41 -0400

CTMirror: Brewer Michael McCreary and baker Beth Bolton are part of a growing new breed of Connecticut entrepreneur: The kind created by the recession.

International Building Systems Firm Moving Into Former Quebecor Site In North Haven

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 10:13:05 -0400

Hartford Courant: Sustainable Building Systems, an international construction technology firm, is moving into the former Quebecor printing plant in North Haven, adding hundreds of jobs, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is announcing this morning.

New Law Channeling Older Teens Into Juvenile Court

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 10:06:16 -0400

Hartford Courant: New "raise the age'' legislation introduced 17-year-olds into the juvenile court system for the first time on July 1, and by Tuesday, there were 25 of the older kids sitting in detention centers across the state.

Connecticut League of Conservation Voters gives Toni Harp a perfect rating

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 09:30:01 -0400

New Haven Register: State Sen. Toni N. Harp, D-New Haven, received a perfect rating from the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters with regard to her 2012 voting record, according to a statement.

Lawmakers learn about local nutrition programs at North End Farmers Market

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 15:40:49 -0400

Middletown Press: Local, state and U.S. dignitaries visited the North End Farmers Market Friday to learn about the North End Action Team’s “Kid’s Market,” where city children receive funds to buy fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods at the market.

More funding backed to help veterans get jobs

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 09:49:29 -0400

CTPost: A pair of state senators Thursday renewed their support for creating jobs for veterans returning from Iraq through a pair of employment initiatives.

Guilford gardening supply company gets $84G

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 09:41:57 -0400

New Haven Register: A Guilford-based organic gardening supply company is one of five companies to receive the latest round of funding from the state’s Small Business Express Program.

Norwalk and Stamford firms tap state grants

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:30:58 -0400

CTPost: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced Friday the state is giving Norwalk and Stamford firms $77,500 in Business Express Program grants to buy new equipment, improve their products and offices and retain 10 jobs.

Norwalk to get 50 more school readiness slots

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 09:47:27 -0400

Norwalk Citizen: State Sen. Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) welcomed news Tuesday that Norwalk will get 50 additional school readiness slots this year, expanding critical preschool opportunities to more children.

Malloy wants Old State House open on Sundays as part of tourism push

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 09:43:46 -0400

The Day: Despite a multimillion-dollar tourism campaign touting Connecticut's role in the Revolutionary War, an 18th century landmark in downtown Hartford remains closed on Sundays.

Officials tout new benefits for veterans

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 10:56:14 -0400

The Hour: Republican and Democratic leaders scraped politics and joined together to laud new legislation Tuesday designed to help veterans readjust to civilian life and ensure their sacrifices in battle will not be marred.

New State Laws in Place This Week

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 10:55:11 -0400

Manchester Patch: A slew of new state laws, approved by the General Assembly in its spring session, took effect this week, including one that allows 17-year-olds accused of a crime to now be considered juveniles in the criminal justice system.

Middletown mayor, legislative delegates announce tax refund for Amazing Grace

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 17:00:39 -0400

Middletown Press: Members of the city’s legislative delegation and Mayor Dan Drew announced legislation passed during the special session that will allow the city to return nearly $5,000 in taxes it collected from the Amazing Grace food pantry.

Biodiesel plant comes to New Haven

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 17:55:06 -0400

WTNH 8: A tank farm is going up along the New Haven Harbor as part of a project to build the largest biodiesel plant in New England.

Health Care Law Stands: What It Means For CT And You

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 12:15:49 -0400

NH Independent: The U.S. Supreme Court decision today upholding the constitutionality of the nation’s health reform law bodes well for Connecticut, where the Affordable Care Act has funneled $192 million in federal funds to implement the law and impacted the lives of millions of residents as of June 2012.

Sidewalk work 1st up if Danielson gets grant funds

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 09:53:13 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: Shoppers in downtown Danielson could see refurbished sidewalks and new lighting as early as next year if the town receives money from a new state-funded improvement program aimed at keeping small-town retail areas vibrant.

NASA-Inspired Inventor Builds The Crew

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 09:26:10 -0400

New Haven Independent: Fitz Walker has expanded his Newhallville lab and hired three new employees, bringing him another step closer to revolutionizing mammograms with technology designed for outer space.

Manufacturers Can Prosper In Connecticut

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 09:30:39 -0400

Hartford Courant: Twenty-first-century entrepreneurs with a vision of establishing a manufacturing legacy probably wouldn't consider locating a fledgling business in Connecticut — a state often perceived as having high taxes and a tough climate for business.

Towns excited over Main Street funding

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 15:42:38 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's small town economic development directors envision creating and expanding downtown revitalization programs with funds from the state's newest infrastructure improvement grant program.

Overseas manufacturers eye Conn. peers

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 10:06:12 -0400

WestFair Online: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is forecasting not just a rebound in local manufacturing – he is predicting European companies will soon announce acquisitions of Connecticut precision manufacturers to get a prefab U.S. production line.

Courtney, Prague Seek To Incentivize Long-Term Care Insurance

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 13:20:03 -0400

With 80 million baby boomers set to retire over the next few decades, U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney and state Sen. Edith Prague are backing a bill that would incentivize the purchase of long-term care insurance.

A 'revolutionary' wrinkle: 'Connecticut Treasures'

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 09:49:56 -0400

The Day: In Connecticut, the branding continues.The state, which in May rolled out "Still Revolutionary," a tourism marketing campaign touting the state's history, will now promote certain attractions as "Connecticut Treasures," providing free or reduced admission for visitors under 18 and incorporating the sites in newly developed school curricula.

HESCO Receives $100,000 Grant From State

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 10:14:22 -0400

Rocky Hill Patch: A Rocky Hill company that makes custom electrical cable assemblies and control panels received assistance through the state’s Small Business Express Program today, according to a release from the governor's office.

Community College's New Manufacturing Center Draws Job Seekers

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 10:54:05 -0400

Hartford Courant: Chris Williams enrolled at Naugatuck Valley Community College to study nursing, but a conversation with the school's dean changed his mind.

Malloy names Alexion as 'First Five' recipient

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 13:01:54 -0400

CT Mirror: Alexion, a global pharmaceutical company, was announced today as the recipient of up to $51 million in economic development aid that will help the company become the anchor tenant in the new Downtown Crossing project near the Yale medical campus.

Oatmeal Maker, Four Others Get CT Small-Biz Aid

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 13:40:26 -0400

Hartford Courant: A high-fiber oatmeal producer, a roofing company, a clothing and stationery customizer, a design firm and a restaurant are receiving funds from a state small business funding program.

MAP: Small Business Express Program

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 14:16:40 -0400

Hartford Courant: Connecticut's Small Business Express program provides loans and grants to small businesses to spur job creation and growth. The map below details the 58 businesses currently approved for Small Business Express assistance with information culled from the press releases.

Connecticut launching infrastructure fund to aid small businesses

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 09:56:07 -0400

New Haven Register: Connecticut is launching a fund that downtown districts across Connecticut can tap into to help fund infrastructure improvements that will help attract small businesses, Gov. Dannel Malloy said Friday.

Gov. Malloy: CT Small Companies Drive Economic Growth

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 10:03:24 -0400

Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that five Connecticut small businesses in East Hampton, East Hartford, Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford have qualified for assistance through the state’s Small Business Express Program (EXP).

Connecticut adds 1,400 jobs in May

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 09:52:34 -0400

New Haven Register: Connecticut’s economy added 1,400 new jobs in May, but the employment gains didn’t resonate with economists around the state, who said the pace of growth remains very slow.

Legislature aids vets, economy

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 13:23:06 -0400

Connecticut Post: Through the messiness of a one-day special session, the Connecticut General Assembly managed to push through legislation that will benefit the state's economy and aid unemployed Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans.

Foreclosure Prevention Effort Gets Boost In Connecticut Legislature

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 13:36:20 -0400

Hartford Courant: A foreclosure-prevention program that has provided nearly 750 loans to Connecticut borrowers in danger of losing their homes has been extended and expanded by state lawmakers.

Scottish Solar Firm Opening Office in Stamford

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 13:34:28 -0400

Hartford Courant: Renewable Resources Inc, a Scottish solar panel installation company, will open its United States headquarters in Stamford and hire 50 people, the governor's office announced Wednesday.

Lawmakers Expand Small-Business Aid Program

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 09:17:50 -0400

Hartford Courant: An expansion of the Connecticut Small Business Express program that state legislators passed during a special session Tuesday widens the scope of the assistance to include larger and out-of-state companies.

Norwalk Officials Hail New Zoning Enforcement Law

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 13:13:41 -0400

Norwalk Daily Voice: Norwalk lawmakers have rallied applauded a new law intended to improve neighborhoods by strenghtening zoning enforcement.

Foreclosure Prevention Effort Gets Boost In Connecticut Legislature

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 09:17:16 -0400

Hartford Courant: A foreclosure-prevention program that has provided nearly 750 loans to Connecticut borrowers in danger of losing their homes has been extended and expanded by state lawmakers.

Daily Remembered For Her Bipartisanship, Brevity

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 09:49:37 -0400

CT News Junkie: Retiring Sen. Eileen Daily of Westbrook thought she would get away without being toasted, roasted, and memorialized by her colleagues if she announced her retirement after the regular legislative session. But Tuesday’s special session provided the perfect opportunity to pay tribute to her 20 year legislative career.

Our View: UConn Health Center good for the state

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 09:55:30 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: A significant first step was taken Monday in establishing Connecticut as a premier center of medical research.

Officials: Change in law will allow easier enforcement of zoning regulations

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 10:40:43 -0400

The Hour: Zoning enforcement officers in Connecticut will no longer be subject to being sued for triple damages by angry landowners, after Gov. Dannel P. Malloy recently signed into law new legislation that levels the liability field.

Lowest-Performing School Districts Get Details On $39.5 Million For Reform Efforts

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 09:44:52 -0400

Hartford Courant: Representatives from the state's 30 lowest-performing school districts gathered Monday to hear details about how to apply for their share of $39.5 million in state money that is available if they pledge to make certain reforms.

City Stone Fabricator Scores $100K Small Biz Grant

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 14:54:52 -0400

Middletown Patch: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy today announced that five Connecticut small businesses, including a Middletown stone-making company, have qualified for assistance through the state’s Small Business Express Program.

Roll-Your-Own shops will face new state fee, but get 3 months to prepare

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 15:43:37 -0400

CT Mirror: Connecticut's so-called "roll-your-own" cigarette industry, which became embroiled two weeks ago in a congressional campaign scandal, won't avoid a stiff new state fee, but will have an extra three months to prepare for it.

EDITORIAL: Police can't infringe on use of cameras by private citizens

Sat, 09 Jun 2012 09:43:26 -0400

The Hour: In these days of security cameras, red light cameras and cell phones with picture-taking capabilities, it's hard to get away with anything. You hear stories all the time about how a suspect's photo was taken by a bystander using the handy cell phone camera and proved helpful to police.

Officials tout job-training program at Jaypro

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:44:13 -0400

The Day: State Sen. Andrea Stillman, Connecticut Labor Commissioner Glenn Marshall and other officials appeared Wednesday at the sporting goods manufacturer Jaypro Sports LLC to tout a new program that matches unemployed workers with businesses looking to provide training.

State to invest in local literacy lab

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 11:08:42 -0400

Norwalk Citizen: House Republican Leader Larry Cafero (R-Norwalk), state Sen. Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and members of the Norwalk delegation welcomed news Thursday that Stepping Stones Museum for Children in Norwalk will get help from the state in establishing an early learning and literacy laboratory.

Malloy, Local Lawmakers Tour Manchester Manufacturer, Talk Jobs Legislation

Sat, 02 Jun 2012 11:16:54 -0400

Manchester Patch: Empire Industries, a longtime Manchester-based manufacturer hosted Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, Mayor Leo V. Diana and local lawmakers Friday to discuss legislation that can benefit Connecticut's small businesses.

Malloy tours Peter Paul plant, announces $2.5M loan

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 09:12:57 -0400

New Britain Herald: With a boost from a $2.5 million state loan, Peter Paul Electronics will relocate its coil operations from Puerto Rico to New Britain, a move that will create 75 new jobs at the company within five years. If the manufacturer meets its quota of new hires it may be eligible for a loan forgiveness credit of $1.5 million.

Connecticut's New Medical Marijuana Law Is So Square

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 09:30:24 -0400

The Atlantic Wire: Connecticut became the 17th state to make medical marijuana legal on Friday, but before New Yorkers with headaches and back pain jump on the first Metro North see a doctor, you should know: This is a far less forgiving law that in other states. As Reuters' Mary Ellen Clark reports, You actually do have to be sick to get a pot prescription, and only pharmacists can get licenses to open dispensaries, unlike in some other states we could name.

Connecticut’s Economy Is Showing Positive Signs

Wed, 30 May 2012 09:11:11 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: While it may just be anecdotal, a business development manager for a utility company said Wednesday that Connecticut’s economy seems to be improving and businesses are moving in or expanding.

Biotechnology investment: Gains and losses

Wed, 30 May 2012 16:12:46 -0400

Nature: Connecticut's investment initiatives are boosting research prospects, despite the region's languishing pharmaceutical sector.

State Loan Helping Small Businesses Survive

Wed, 30 May 2012 09:35:01 -0400

West Hartford Patch: When the deep snows of 2011 lasted almost ‘til April, and a freak October snowstorm left them without power for a week, and a global recession continued to keep garden sales sluggish, Gledhill Nursery President and CEO Sean Powell knew just where to turn for help: the State of Connecticut’s new Small Business Express Program, which has just loaned Gledhill Nursery $100,000 in working capital.

Lawmakers, Activists Talk About How They Repealed The Death Penalty

Wed, 30 May 2012 09:36:44 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: There was no public bill signing and very little fanfare this year after a bill prospectively abolishing the death penalty was signed into law.

Is Connecticut getting the federal dollars it deserves?

Tue, 29 May 2012 17:34:15 -0400

CY Mirror: An openly skeptical legislative panel, the Program Review and Investigations Committee, launched an inquiry Tuesday into whether Connecticut gets its fair share of federal funding.

Looney: Cop-Photo Bill Will Rise Again

Mon, 28 May 2012 17:35:40 -0400

New Haven Independent: Despite a legislative setback, Martin Looney vows to keep working to give people like Luis Luna another weapon when cops wrongfully arrest them for turning on their cameras.

Malloy Announces 5 Small Business Express Grants

Fri, 25 May 2012 11:28:25 -0400

Hartford Courant: Five more Connecticut small businesses are set to receive financial assistance through the state's new Small Business Express Program.

Free park passes for disabled veterans

Thu, 24 May 2012 16:17:12 -0400

WTNH 8: Disabled veterans can now receive free access to state parks.

COLUMN: From the Capitol / State Sen. Bob Duff

Thu, 24 May 2012 11:31:31 -0400

Darien News: With an economic resurgence under way, the most pressing issue we face in Connecticut is to keep things moving in the right direction. That means a continued focus on jobs.

All aboard the CTfastrak (formerly the Busway)

Tue, 22 May 2012 09:13:46 -0400

New Britain Herald: Forget “New Britain to Hartford Busway.” The official name is now “CTfastrak.”

New regulations may expand hospice care

Wed, 23 May 2012 09:11:45 -0400

Stamford Advocate: State Rep. Dan Fox, D-Stamford, said the closure of the Richard L. Rosenthal Hospice late last year is an illustration of how the state's longstanding rules for hospice kept nursing and health-care outfits from providing needed in-patient care for terminally ill patients.

Racial profiling, police line-ups and medical bill evidence targeted during session

Mon, 21 May 2012 12:13:29 -0400

CT Law Tribune: The 2012 legislative session was a memorable one for the legal community.

'Bike Friendly Week' Culminates with 'Bike to Work Day'

Mon, 21 May 2012 12:21:37 -0400

West Hartford Patch: There was a crowd gathered early Friday morning in the parking area next to REI in Blue Back Square, but there were few cars in sight.

Business still waiting on legislature

Mon, 21 May 2012 10:31:03 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: As lawmakers plan for another special session this summer, economic development officials are hoping two key pieces of legislation that surprisingly died on the last day the legislative session get a do over.

State Subsidies Seen Spurring Solar Powered Homes

Sun, 20 May 2012 10:39:30 -0400

Hartford Courant: Dmitri Donskoy figures he'll save only $20 a month on his electricity bill after solar panels are installed on the roof of his home under a state-subsidized program. But he shrugs it off because the green energy appeals to his environmental concerns.

EDITORIAL: Revive jobs bill in special session, but not minimum wage bill

Sat, 19 May 2012 10:27:18 -0400

New Haven Register: In Washington, the problem is getting Democrats and Republicans to agree. In Hartford, it is Democrats in the state House and Senate who can’t get along. The result is that in the legislative session that just ended, a bill with bipartisan support that would have expanded financial aid to small businesses and provided incentives for hiring died without getting to a vote in the House.

Small business peddles toward paying back loan

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:03:50 -0400

WTNH 8: Tax dollars are now helping to pay for some peddle power which will create some jobs that will help pay back a state loan.

Sunday Sales Has Broad Political Appeal Near Border

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:34:02 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Enfield’s Republican ‘Man of the Year’ Dominic Alaimo said it never mattered to him what party the governor belonged to as long as he or she was willing to sign a bill allowing Sunday liquor sales then he’s was going to be happy.

Connecticut project aids jobless, small businesses

Fri, 18 May 2012 09:34:00 -0400

New Haven Register: Albert Watson was out of work for almost a 18 months and increasingly anxious when he became the first person in the state to land a Step Up job in February. Today, he works in shipping and receiving for a small manufacturer on Twin Lakes Road.

Gledhill Nursery Receives State Small Business Grant

Thu, 17 May 2012 14:17:25 -0400

West Hartford Patch: Gledhill Nursery has qualified for assistance under a special program created by Connecticut's new Jobs Bill.

Malloy backs saving jobs bill killed in House-Senate fight

Wed, 16 May 2012 09:42:57 -0400

CT Mirror: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is backing an effort to resurrect the bipartisan jobs bill that was killed in a game of political chicken by House and Senate Democratic leaders a week ago on the last day of the annual legislative session.

Malloy signs Conn. education overhaul

Tue, 15 May 2012 10:48:48 -0400

WTNH 8: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is scheduled to sign Connecticut's new, wide-ranging education overhaul bill into law.

New authority offers region new hope

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:50:56 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Hartford’s push for more housing and state employees got a boost last week when lawmakers passed legislation creating a new regional authority to revitalize the Capital City.

Sunday Alcohol Sales Now Law

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:58:46 -0400

Hartford Courant: Gov.Dannel P. Malloyon Monday signed the Sunday alcohol sales bill into law, a spokesman said.

Conn. Senate Democrats not giving up on jobs bill

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:50:13 -0400

WTNH-8: Senate President Donald Williams Jr. says he's confident that a failed bipartisan job creation bill can be resurrected when Connecticut's General Assembly reconvenes for a special session to finish some budget-related bills.

General Assembly: An 'Education Session' That Became So Much More

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:09:43 -0400

Hartford Courant: As lawmakers raced to finish their work before Wednesday night's midnight deadline, they were already debating the session's accomplishments and failures.

With the session over, Malloy reclaims the stage

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:21:45 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy closed the annual session of the General Assembly early Thursday with a speech that attempted to reset the mood and message of an administration that struggled keep the breakneck pace of its first year.

Legislative scorecard: winners, losers

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:06:34 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: The day after the annual legislative session ends is typically a time for all sides to declare victory, lament defeat, or spin one into the other. Below, our list of winners and losers from the 2012 session.

Final Day Farewells

Wed, 09 May 2012 20:03:10 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: With the session’s major legislation passed and sent to the governor’s desk, the General Assembly took some time out on the last day of session to bid farewell to some long-serving members.

State senate passes $20.5B budget bill

Wed, 09 May 2012 10:58:50 -0400

Norwich Bulletin: The state Senate gave final legislative approval Tuesday night to a revised $20.5 billion budget that increases spending by $143 million in the new fiscal year that begins July 1.

Bill Cosby at the Capitol: Hugs and fist pumps for Harp

Wed, 09 May 2012 21:50:58 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Bill Cosby never met state Sen. Toni Harp, D-New Haven, until Wednesday. But after hearing her passion for mentoring urban youth, the actor, comic and activist had his own unique way of complimenting her:

Education reform bill, praised as good step, clears legislature

Tue, 08 May 2012 10:19:46 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Legislators agree: The education reform bill they unanimously approved Tuesday is a step, one of several that will be needed to provide a better education for the lowest-performing students.

Prague Announces That She Will Retire

Tue, 08 May 2012 11:15:08 -0400

Montville Patch: State Sen. Edith Prague, who represents Montville and other towns in the area, has announced that this will be her final term in the Legislature.

Education reforms clear Senate on bipartisan vote

Tue, 08 May 2012 09:35:51 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: The Senate passed a sweeping education reform bill early Tuesday, the only opposition coming from Republican legislators who complained of the last-minute release of the compromise, saying no one should be voting on a bill they have not had a chance to read.

Lawmakers collect donations for veterans

Tue, 08 May 2012 09:39:24 -0400

WTNH: Connecticut lawmakers will be collecting donations of clothing, personal care items and cash for veterans at the state Capitol.

Malloy: 'Meaningful Education Reform' Achieved

Mon, 07 May 2012 23:01:23 -0400

Hartford Courant: Sen. Andrea Stillman, D-Waterford, said a compromise was reached on an education bill early Sunday and she expects to introduce the bill in the Senate Monday night.

Let's Pass This Bill: Legislation Mandating Siblings In Foster Care Get Weekly Visits

Mon, 07 May 2012 18:03:16 -0400

Hartford Courant: During their nearly 16 years in Connecticut's foster care system, sisters Ariana and Tiana Alicea often went months without seeing one another.

Bill Permitting the Medical Use of Marijuana Clears the CT Senate

Sat, 05 May 2012 10:55:54 -0400

Hartford Courant: Following a passionate debate that stretched on for nearly 10 hours, the Connecticut Senate early this morning gave final legislative approval to a bill that legalizes and regulates the medical use of marijuana.

Senate adopts penalties, standards for blackouts

Sat, 05 May 2012 10:45:44 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: The Senate voted unanimously Saturday to adopt and send to the House a bill imposing penalties on Connecticut's utilities for poor performance, a reaction to extended blackouts after storms last August and October.

One Step Closer To Same Day Voter Registration

Sat, 05 May 2012 10:48:26 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: Check another perennial issue off the list. The Senate gave final passage Saturday to a bill that would allow voters to register and vote on the same day.

Labor proposal passes Senate, heads for Malloy's signature

Fri, 04 May 2012 09:51:17 -0400

CT Mirror: A controversial proposal to give collective bargaining rights to certain home care workers and daycare providers is headed to the governor's desk, completing a process begun less than seven months ago with two executive orders.

Senate sends project labor agreement bill to the House

Thu, 03 May 2012 14:34:20 -0400

CT Mirror: The state Senate overwhelmingly approved a measure late Wednesday guaranteeing communities can negotiate working conditions with labor unions before public projects are put out to bid.

Looney Rides To Cyclists’ Rescue

Thu, 03 May 2012 10:43:00 -0400

New Haven Independent: New Haven’s politically active cycling community got an assist in Hartford from hometown state Sen. Martin Looney.

Connecticut legislature weighs extra penalty for motorists who harm 'vulnerable users'

Thu, 03 May 2012 10:31:16 -0400

The Register Citizen: A careless motorist who injures or kills a "vulnerable user" -- such as a bicyclist, skateboarder or a person in a wheelchair -- on a public roadway would be fined up to $1,000 under legislation that cleared the state Senate Wednesday.

Project Labor Agreement Bill Clears Senate With Broad Support

Thu, 03 May 2012 09:59:21 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Senate approved a bill late Wednesday night giving municipalities the option to negotiate project labor agreements for public construction projects.

Senate Votes For More Sibling Visitation Time

Wed, 02 May 2012 15:30:08 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Senate passed a bill Wednesday to give children in Department of Children and Families custody more visitation rights with their separated siblings.

Lawmakers Form Manufacturing Caucus

Wed, 02 May 2012 12:52:07 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: There’s the Sportsmen’s Caucus, the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, the Rural Caucus, the Long Island Sound Caucus, and now the Manufacturing Caucus.

State could become the first to required recycling of mattresses

Wed, 02 May 2012 09:41:26 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: Legislation that would make Connecticut the first state to require the recycling of used mattresses appears destined for a vote in the General Assembly.

Senate Votes To Ban Discriminatory Hiring Practices For Unemployed

Tue, 01 May 2012 15:47:21 -0400

Hartford Courant: The Senate voted Tuesday afternoon to ban discriminatory job advertisements against the unemployed by companies and employment agencies.

Senate Approves Sunday Alcohol Sales By 28 to 6; Bill Goes To Malloy

Tue, 01 May 2012 17:46:20 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Senate voted late Tuesday afternoon to end the long-running controversy of Sunday alcohol sales in supermarkets and package stores – leaving Indiana as the only state with an across-the-board ban on Sunday sales.

Vote Near On Discrimination Bill For Unemployed

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:28:55 -0400

Hartford Courant: Help wanted advertisements that specified "only applicants who are currently employed need apply" raised a furor when they popped up online or in print in recent years.

Norwalk officials warn seniors of new scams

Wed, 30 May 2012 09:50:43 -0400

Norwalk Hour: Scam artists will use any tools at their disposal to separate unsuspecting victims from their money. They will use the Internet, e-mail, telephone, or go door-to-door to perform their scams.

Editorial: For veterans, a helping hand from state

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:46:10 -0400

The Day: News that Connecticut has launched a series of initiatives to help up to 8,000 veterans make a smoother transition to civilian life reminds us that since Revolutionary times this nation has had a spotty record regarding its treatment of returning warriors.

Looks like an onion skin, but it could be electricity

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:56:31 -0400

CT Mirror: Faced with statewide data that showed food waste is, by far, the largest component of waste material that could be composted but instead is dumped in the trash, last year the legislature at the behest of the Department of Energy and Protection took bold action to change that.

Legislative Scorecard: Tracking Major Issues As Session Nears End

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 09:05:30 -0400

Hartford Courant: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy dedicated the 2012 legislative session to education reform, but it was only one of a host of high-profile issues to come before lawmakers this year. Here's a rundown of legislative progress on selected issues as the General Assembly enters the final full week of its 2012 legislative session.

Senate Approves Bipartisan Jobs Bill To Kick-Start Economy

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 19:34:00 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Senate approved a bipartisan jobs bill Friday evening that was designed to expand on a similar bill that was passed last year to kick-start Connecticut’s sluggish economy.

State Senate moves Route 11 bill forward

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:05:13 -0400

The Day: The state Senate voted 22 to 14 late Thursday night on a bill that would allow E-ZPass-style tolls on the future second half of Route 11 to help finance the long-stalled project.

State companies plan expansion and job growth

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:48:28 -0400

Connecticut Post: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Monday awarded financing to two state companies, which he highlighted as examples of businesses that are in a position to expand and create jobs in Connecticut.

Senate Takes on Daycare Unionization

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:14:16 -0400

NBC Connecticut: The state Senate is taking on a bill on Wednesday that would all private home daycare providers and health care workers to unionize and supporters and critics plan to speak at the Legislative Office Building.

House Forwards Medical Marijuana To Senate

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:44:06 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: After debating for more than six hours, the House passed a bill legalizing the medical use of marijuana Wednesday night in a 96-51 vote, sending the bill to the Senate for approval.

Senate passes bill to stop price gouging following severe storms

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 17:54:32 -0400

Connecticut Mirror: With memories still fresh of the severe storms that slammed Connecticut during the second half of 2011, the state Senate Wednesday overwhelmingly adopted a bill targeting price gougers who take advantage of weather emergencies.

Connecticut Repeals Death Penalty

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 17:22:23 -0400

Huffington Post: Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy (D) signed a bill into law on Wednesday that repeals the death penalty, making Connecticut the 17th state to do so. The new law does not apply to the 11 inmates currently on death row in the state.

State to help towns buy land bordering sub base

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:51:29 -0400

The Day: The state plans to help local municipalities buy land around the Naval Submarine Base so development will not encroach on the base’s operations.

EDITORIAL: New caucus reflects Long Island Sound's importance

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:34:37 -0400

New Haven Register: Issues concerning the health, development and future of Long Island Sound should get more careful and immediate attention with the formation of a state legislative caucus, led by a bipartisan steering committee. The caucus’ value will be enhanced by its plans to work with New York legislators across the Sound.

Sewage spill notification bill passes through legislature

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:17:57 -0400

Stamford Advocate: The General Assembly this month unanimously approved a bill requiring the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to maintain an online map illustrating the scope and effect of anticipated sewage overflows and to notify the public when unexpected spills occur.

Senate approves bills to reshape police behavior

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 09:16:25 -0400

CT Mirror: The state Senate capped a day of debate on police behavior Thursday by overwhelmingly adopting a measure to revitalize faltering state efforts to monitor and prohibit racial profiling of motorists.

Senate Approves Videotaping Bill By 24 to 11 After East Haven Incident

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 18:07:47 -0400

Hartford Courant: The state Senate voted Thursday for a key law enforcement bill to protect citizens’ rights to videotape police officers in their official duties – following high-profile charges in East Haven.

State Unemployment Falls To 7.7 Percent

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:05:31 -0400

Hartford Courant: Connecticut continues a trend of moderate job growth and falling unemployment, with the unemployment rate ticking down to 7.7 percent in March, according to data released by the state Department of Labor Thursday.

Senate To Take Up Two Policing Bills

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:15:39 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Senate plans to take up two bills Thursday aimed at curbing bad behavior by police. One would strengthen the state’s racial profiling reporting law, while the other make police liable if they stop someone from videotaping them.

Small business incentive program boosts Main Street company

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:53:09 -0400

Middletown Press: The workforce at the Royal Display Company on the north end of Main Street is one stronger, after owner Rick Wright took advantage of a new state program aimed at helping small businesses in the state expand or hire more help.

Senate Follows House In Adopting Constitutional Amendment To Expand Absentee Ballot Voting

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:58:38 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: A resolution to amend the state constitution to allow no-excuse absentee ballots cleared its second hurdle Wednesday when it passed the Senate 21-14. It passed the House on April 4, but did not receive enough support to immediately be placed on November’s ballot.

Connecticut Declares 2013-2014 School Year The 'Year Of The Charles W. Morgan'

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:14:37 -0400

Stonington-Mystic Patch: Connecticut Public School students will learn about the Charles W. Morgan during the 2013-2014 school year.

State gets high marks for testing effectiveness of its business tax credits

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:30:57 -0400

CT Mirror: Connecticut is one of 13 states "leading the way" when it comes to tracking and testing the effectiveness of its tax credits and other economic development incentives, according to a new report from a leading national public policy think-tank.

Judiciary Committee Passes Price Gouging Prohibition

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:22:08 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The Judiciary Committee approved a bill Tuesday morning that would prohibit price gouging in the aftermath of a storm emergency.

City Solar Panel Supplier Gets $350K State Grant, Loan

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:28:19 -0400

Middletown Patch: A Middletown solar panel supplier is among five Connecticut small businesses that qualified for a combined $1,020,000 through the state’s Small Business Express Program, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s signature small business program that was created as a part of the bi-partisan Jobs Bill passed during last year’s Special Session.

Panel OKs red-light cameras, Sunday liquor sales

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:03:13 -0400

CT Mirror: The state legislature's tax-writing panel endorsed automated camera-issued motor vehicle tickets and Sunday liquor sales Monday, but the details behind both measures likely won't be ironed out until just before the full General Assembly adjourns next month.

"Bully" Documentary Inspires Discussion, Revives Painful Memories

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:22:13 -0400

Hartford Courant: School bus mischief and adolescent teasing might seem normal. Then there is the torment that 12-year-old Alex Libby, a mild-mannered seventh-grader in Sioux City, Iowa, suffered at the fists of his classmates on the daily ride to school during the 2009-10 school year.

Backstory on Connecticut Death Penalty Repeal

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:19:18 -0400

Public News Service: The 11 men on death row will remain there, however. Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney explains why lawmakers didn't make it retroactive.

Death penalty repeal passes in house

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:39:34 -0400

Yale Daily News: After nearly nine hours of debate, the State House of Representatives passed a bill repealing capital punishment late Wednesday night, setting the stage for Connecticut to become the 17th state to abolish capital punishment.

Fake marijuana drugs about to disappear from store shelves

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:18:40 -0400

The Day: Convenience stores across the state must start clearing their shelves of all synthetic marijuana products, "bath salts" party drugs and a psychedelic known as salvia, or face potential criminal charges and the loss of their lottery sales or store licenses.

Lawmaker Seeks To Protect Display Of Religious Symbols

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:13:10 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: After a condo association threatened to fine a resident for hanging a Jewish religious symbol on her door frame, Sen. Majority Leader Martin Looney hopes to pass a narrowly tailored proposal that will protect condo owners’ religious freedom.

CT focuses jobs funnel on green construction

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 17:21:25 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut labor policymakers announced Tuesday the use of a $5.8 million federal grant to recast its jobs funnel as the CT Green Jobs Funnel, focusing on green construction jobs.

Lawmakers finalizing utility performance plan

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 17:58:26 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: By the time the Connecticut legislative session is over in May, electric utilities Connecticut Light & Power and United Illuminating will be forced to meet a certain performance levels with penalties coming for failure to meet those standards

In rejecting the death penalty, one senator is a catalyst

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 09:45:50 -0400

CTMirror: It is nearing 2:30 a.m., and the corridors of the State Capitol are almost empty. Two women, both longtime lobbyists in the cause of abolishing capital punishment, wait for Senate President Pro Tem Donald E. Williams Jr., D-Brooklyn.

Compromise sought on coastal protection bills

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 09:56:42 -0400

The Day: Legislators are working toward crafting a compromise bill from two existing proposals that take very different approaches in dealing with the effects of flooding and storm surge on coastal properties.

Connecticut's Senate rejects a rarely used death penalty

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:50:40 -0400

CT Mirror: Democrats in the state Senate voted at 2:05 a.m. Thursday to repeal the death penalty for future crimes, placing Connecticut on a path to become the 17th state to step away from capital punishment.

Bridgeport's SolarChange to hire 31

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:14:37 -0400

Newstimes: After landing $350,000 in state aid, Connecticut's newest alternative energy company, SolarChange is hiring as it ramps up assembly and installation operations of its patent-pending heating system powered by the sun.

Long Island Sound caucus to help organize, focus and unify Sound goals and efforts

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:52:34 -0400

New Haven Register: The next time there's a big environmental funding battle or a major natural disaster involving Long Island Sound, the people who represent us in Hartford won't have to scramble quite so much to unify, mobilize and speak with one organized voice.

Senate Democrats To Amend Death Penalty Repeal

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:34:05 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: As the state Senate prepared for a vote on the prospective repeal of the death penalty Wednesday, Democratic leaders announced their intention to amend the bill to keep inmates convicted of capital murder in conditions mirroring death row.

Democrats pass revised budget

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:37:21 -0400

Yale Daily News: Following a proposal by Gov. Dannel Malloy to adjust the state's budget in support of education reforms, the General Assembly's Appropriations Committee passed a revised budget that calls for a $1 million decrease in state spending.

After a two-year dry spell, millions heading to vo-tech schools

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:58:01 -0400

CTMirror: As students change classes at Ella T. Grasso Southeastern Technical High School in Groton, they sometimes have to avoid knocking over the buckets in the hallways collecting water from the leaking roof. The leak has caused the electricity to short out, which started a small fire at the school in January.

Gov. Malloy Announces Small Business Grants

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 09:07:48 -0400

Hartford Courant: Three Hartford-area small businesses will be receiving grants and loans under the Small Business Express Program to grow their operations and hire additional employees.

Appropriations reverses health cuts, transit-fare hikes

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:35:52 -0400

CT Mirror: Despite fiscal constraints, the Appropriations Committee intends today to restore funding for health care for the poor and the University of Connecticut Health Center, cancel a second wave of transit-fare hikes and reject several agency mergers sought by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy.

CT Economy Added 4,900 Jobs in February; Unemployment Down To 7.8 Percent

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:00:08 -0400

Hartford Courant: Connecticut employers added 4,900 jobs in February and the unemployment rate fell to 7.8 percent, further evidence that the job market has turned a corner toward robust growth.

Legislature Votes Unanimously To Cap Gasoline Tax; Bill Sent To Malloy

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:05:20 -0400

Hartford Courant: With gasoline prices skyrocketing, the state legislature voted unanimously Wednesday for a permanent cap on the state's gross receipts tax that would reduce current gas prices by more than a penny a gallon.

Democrats to pass 'circuit breaker' on gas tax

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:38:49 -0400

CTMirror: The Democratic majority in the General Assembly has scheduled a vote today on legislation that would establish a "permanent circuit breaker" on the wholesale fuels tax, providing some relief from a tax that now automatically increases with gasoline prices.

Centerplan Construction Gets $100K Grant From State

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:50:08 -0400

Middletown Patch: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced Centerplan Construction Company of Middletown was among small businesses across the state which qualified for grants through the state’s Small Business Express Program to expand its businesses and create jobs.

Mortgage assistance event set Thursday

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:37:52 -0400

Norwalk Hour: A free homeowners mortgage assistance event will be held from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday at Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport. Attendees may meet one-on-one with their mortgage lender or housing counselor, or learn about topics such as foreclosure prevention, loan modification, debt management, federal assistance programs, and foreclosure rescue scams.

FORUM: More jobs in state top priority of Senate Democrats

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:38:25 -0400

New Haven Register Op-ed: We are beginning to see encouraging signs of an improving Connecticut economy. A new report from the state Labor Department shows that unemployment here has dropped to a three-year low, and that 7,100 new jobs were added in January alone. While this is welcome news, much more work remains.

For long-unemployed, hiring bias rears its head

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:25:00 -0400

USA Today: Few job seekers who fail to get an interview know the reason, but Michelle Chesney-Offutt said a recruiter told her why she lost the chance to pitch for an information technology position.

Gender in politics: Women still remain in the minority in state legislature

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 09:31:43 -0400

Bristol Press: Just before this year’s legislative session got underway, a regional chamber of commerce convinced nearly a dozen area lawmakers to show up for a breakfast with business leaders. Gathered along the long head table at the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce session there was only one woman — state Sen. Beth Bye, a West Hartford Democrat.

A Hiring Bias Against The Long-Term Unemployed?

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 13:45:11 -0400

NPR: Few job seekers who fail to get an interview know the reason, but Michelle Chesney-Offutt said a recruiter told her why she lost the chance to pitch for an information technology position.

A bipartisan team steps up to get school funds restored

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 13:14:03 -0400

Norwalk Hour Editorial: Once again two Norwalk legislators on different political sides have set aside partisan positions and come to the rescue of Norwalk's school funding.

Victim's mother testifies for defibrillator bill in Connecticut

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:51:50 -0400

New Haven Register: Michele Ciancola told lawmakers her son, Joseph Ciancola, a 20-year-old baseball player from Orange, who collapsed and later died after a workout on a University of Rhode Island athletic field, might still be alive if the college had an automated external defibrillator, or AED.

A small step on gas prices

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:41:32 -0400

Connecticut Post: Getting the rising price of gas under control is a mighty challenge, one with both long- and short-term complications.

Medical Marijuana Bill Moves Forward On 35-8 Vote

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:34:27 -0400

Hartford Courant: A measure allowing patients to use marijuana prescribed by a doctor to ease symptoms of a debilitating illness won the emphatic blessing of a legislative committee Wednesday only hours after a poll showed the bill has strong public support.

Protect Citizens' Right To Videotape Police On Duty

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:16:11 -0400

Hartford Courant Editorial: Police cruisers often use dashboard cameras to capture events such as chases. They use surveillance tapes in investigations. Do citizens have the right to record police as well?

Judiciary Committee Approves Changes to Racial Profiling Law

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:51:17 -0400

Hartford Courant: The Judiciary Committee Wednesday approved changes to the state’s anti-racial-profiling law that proponents say will improve compliance and assure that police departments are held accountable if they mistreat motorists.

Committee Approves Controversial Same-Day Voter Registration

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:43:26 -0400

Capitol Watch: A key committee voted Wednesday over same-day voter registration – a controversial issue that has prompted sharp debates at the state Capitol for more than a decade.

Legislators back Malloy's education reform efforts

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:56:16 -0400

Stamford Advocate: While differing on whether Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's budget plans will aid or hinder business growth in Connecticut, state legislative leaders at a Tuesday breakfast shared a favorable view of his education reform efforts.

Committee Votes To Approve Sunday Alcohol Sales In Historic Vote

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 09:25:02 -0400

Hartford Courant: — A bill to allow the sale of alcohol on Sundays in Connecticut supermarkets and package stores — for the first time in nearly 80 years — cleared a key legislative committee Tuesday.

Editorial: Protect Citizens' Right To Videotape Police On Duty

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 10:01:27 -0400

Hartford Courant: Police cruisers often use dashboard cameras to capture events such as chases. They use surveillance tapes in investigations. Do citizens have the right to record police as well?

Jobs Plan sails toward passage

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 09:40:56 -0400

Yale Daily News: With the approval of a key committee in Hartford, Senate Democrats' "Jobs Plan" is a step closer to passage.

Conn. lawmakers announce plans for relief at pump

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:18:14 -0400

Business Week: With gas prices continuing to rise, Connecticut's lawmakers are announcing plans to provide relief at the pump and add protections against price gouging.

Measure Would End No-Credit Remedial Classes At Colleges

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:35:45 -0400

Hartford Courant: Raneil Smith was sitting in his first math class at Housatonic Community College when he recalls saying to a classmate, "We're finally in college doing college-level work."

Study Finds Connecticut Is Open, Accountable

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:43:12 -0400

The Daily Weston: A new report on the integrity of state governments ranks Connecticut as one of the most open and accountable legislatures in the country, with top marks for transparency and ethics laws.

Democrats pledge fuel tax relief, but only for one year

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:41:27 -0400

CT Mirror: Majority Democrats proposed a one-year cap Monday on the state's escalating wholesale fuel tax -- but set it to expire one day before one of the largest fuel tax increases in state history is set to kick in.

Without federal law, some pieces of health reform could continue in Connecticut

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:41:33 -0400

CT Mirror: Connecticut officials are working to create a new health insurance market that will open next year, hire a CEO to run it and prepare for an influx of new Medicaid recipients by 2014.

CHFA Foreclosure Prevention Program Could Get New Funding

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:30:49 -0400

Hartford Courant: A foreclosure prevention program that has already provided more than 600 loans for borrowers in danger of losing their homes could be extended by state lawmakers.

Bill aims to reduce number of false identifications in police lineups

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:21:22 -0400

Post-Chronicle: A bill up for legislative review would change the way eyewitnesses to crimes are shown mugshots, with the intention of making eyewitness identification of suspects less arbitrary.

Bill Stemming From Tragic Christmas Day Fire Clears Committee

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 10:10:25 -0400

Hartford Courant: A smoke-detector bill stemming from last year's fatal Christmas Day fire in Stamford cleared a key legislative committee Thursday, although a provision fining those who fail to comply was dropped after questions were raised about enforcement.

Pushing a plan to create CT jobs

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:46:51 -0400

WTNH-8: State lawmakers are pushing a plan that could increase the job market in Connecticut by purchasing more consumer products that are made in Connecticut.

Bipartisan bill will allow Sunday liquor sales in Connecticut

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:04:26 -0400

New Haven Register: There will be sales on Sunday and there may be some discounts for consumers, but lawmakers are not ready for major changes beyond that.

Connecticut Judiciary Committee to rule on issue of recording cops

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:35:13 -0400

New Haven Register: For the second year in a row, the legislature’s Judiciary Committee will rule on a bill that would make clear the public’s right to record police officers on duty.

Legislature considering traffic-watching devices

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:33:10 -0400

The Day: State lawmakers heard testimony Monday for two different types of high-tech traffic law-enforcement devices that could someday guard Connecticut roads and intersections and generate government revenue.

Connecticut adds 7,100 jobs in January; unemployment dips to 8%

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:34:18 -0400

New Haven Register: Connecticut employers added 7,100 jobs in January, pushing the unemployment rate here down slightly to 8.0 percent, according to the state Department of Labor.

Committee Debates Effectiveness of Red Light Cameras

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:37:04 -0400

CTNewsJunkie: The debate leading up to the public hearing on red light cameras has been focused on public safety and revenue, but most of Monday’s testimony was focused on the effectiveness of the cameras.

CT business lobby pushes regionalism reforms

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:42:06 -0400

Hartford Business Journal: State Sen. Steve Cassano, D-Manchester, has been a long-time advocate for regionalism, only to see those efforts fall short. For regionalism to work, town aid grants must be tied to shared services and regional procurement agreements, forcing cities and towns to work together in order to get their share of state funding, Cassano said.

Solar-Powered Hot Water System Serves 252 Unit Apartment Complex

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 09:21:43 -0500

Hartford Courant: A Branford company, Aegis Solar Energy, completed one of the state's largest residential solar-powered hot water projects this week, installing a $672,000 residential solar system in a Willimantic apartment complex.

Malloy Announces Grants For Yogurt Maker, Art Museum, Printing Shop, CPR Trainer

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 09:30:33 -0500

Hartford Courant: An art museum, a printing company, a CPR-training program and the maker of Greek-style yogurt all received state grants for small businesses, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced Friday.

New bill would protect right to photograph cops

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:06:22 -0500

Yale Daily News: The state legislature will hold a public hearing in Hartford next week on a bill to protect citizens' right to film or photograph police officers on duty.

Fund For Underground Tank Cleanup Could Be Phased Out

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:12:08 -0500

Hartford Courant: A fund to pay back gas stations for uninsured cleanups of spills – saddled with millions of dollars in approved claims that have not been paid – would be phased out under a bill before the legislature's environment committee.

Should state government offer a retirement plan for private citizens?

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:08:53 -0500

CT Mirror: State government should offer a retirement plan to the increasing number of people whose companies don't provide a pension or a 401(k) savings program, labor groups and other advocates this week told a legislative panel.

Sometimes, public policy is deeply personal

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:07:42 -0500

CT Mirror: The sight of the burly, bearded Barry Williams zipping around the State Capitol complex on a Segway was a vivid first-year memory for Rep. Ernest Hewett, D-New London, who arrived in Hartford in 2005.

State may broaden programs to aid small business, jobless

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:16:54 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: An omnibus economic development bill being debated in the state legislature’s Commerce Committee could have a wide ranging impact on employers by broadening the eligibility for new loan and incentive programs, boosting state tourism efforts and placing new restrictions on hiring practices.

CT manufacturing posts 23K job openings last year

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 09:22:16 -0500

Hartford Business Journal: Connecticut's manufacturing sector accounted for 8.7 percent of the state's job openings in 2011, according to a report from the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness and the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute.

Senate sends FOI fix to Malloy's desk

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 16:13:05 -0500

CT Mirror: An emergency fix to Connecticut's Freedom of Information law -- crafted without a public hearing or committee review -- was headed to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's desk following Wednesday's unanimous Senate vote.

Measures Aim to End Bias Against Long-Term Jobless

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 12:21:47 -0500

Wall Street Journal: State lawmakers say they see the bias turning up in a nation with an 8.3% unemployment rate: Companies that explicitly advertise that they won't hire someone who isn't currently employed.

Price Gouging, Take Two

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:24:46 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Democratic legislators are calling for bipartisan support of a bill that would prevent price gouging during weather emergency – but contractors say the bill’s language is unfairly vague.

Darien Senator Pushes for Veterans Jobs

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:05:11 -0500

The Daily Darien: State Sen. Carlo Leone made a push to help military veterans return to the work force Tuesday while testifying before the General Assembly’s Commerce Committee.

Duff: Plenty of places to get free tax assistance

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:29:06 -0500

Norwalk Hour: State Sen. Bob Duff is reminding residents that the Internal Revenue Service offers free tax assistance for anyone who earns under $57,000 per year.

Tax Credit Program Will Help Pay The Bills

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:54:49 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: A new tax credit incorporated in last year’s state budget will help Chintamari Kandel finally pay off some of his household expenses.

A new jobs program for people trapped in unemployment

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:56:52 -0500

CBS News: CBS' 60 Minutes aired a segment on unemployment in Stamford. It highlighted the work of The Worplace, Inc. to help the long-term unemployed find new jobs. Senator Leone is employed by The WorkPlace, Inc., outside his capacity as a legislator.

Remedial College Classes Debated

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:26:03 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Seven out of 10 students entering state community colleges take at least one non-credit remedial course, which hinders their ability to graduate in two years.

Lawmakers consider opening college courses to everyone

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:16:53 -0500

CTMirror: Seven of every 10 students who enroll in the state's community colleges are diverted into non-credit remedial courses to prepare them for college-level courses.

Five Small Businesses Gain State Aid Under Jobs Program

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:17:06 -0500

Hartford Courant: Four businesses have received almost $210,000 in grants and two (one of which also got a grant) received loans of $250,000 each as part of the state's Small Business Express program, the governor's office announced Thursday.

Senate Democrats offer plan to safeguard electric service

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:56:31 -0500

CTMirror: Majority Democrats in the state Senate announced a multi-tiered initiative Wednesday to better safeguard electric service and to hold Connecticut's utilities accountable through new performance standards and penalties.

Sen. Gerratana Endorses Governor’s Latest Education Reform Proposals

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:48:48 -0500

New Britain City Journal: Joining Governor Dannel P. Malloy at Founders Hall on the campus of Central Connecticut State University, state Senator Terry Gerratana (D-New Britain) endorsed the governor’s latest plan to reform education by attracting and supporting top teachers.

70,000 Qualify For Earned Income Tax Credit

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:33:39 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: The state’s new Earned Income Tax Credit is a hit. As of Friday, more than 70,000 Connecticut residents have taken advantage of the program.

St. Sen. Edith Prague Returns To Hartford For 30th Legis. Session

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:18:09 -0500

CBS New York: Among lawmakers gathering in Hartford today is State Senator Edith Prague. She’s returning for her 30th legislative session.

Educators look toward upcoming legislative session with anticipation

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:55:28 -0500

New Haven Register: Money is tight and the problems huge, but Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has educators facing the upcoming legislative session with a mix of anxiety and excitement that 2012 will be the year that education reform gets a big boost.

CT-Session Opens

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:32:48 -0500

Hartford Courant: Education reforms, job creation and modernizing Connecticut's liquor laws are some of the top issues state lawmakers will be tackling when they return to the Capitol on Wednesday for the new legislative session.

Malloy Proposes $12 Million For Early Education

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:05:16 -0500

Hartford Courant: Standing near the slide at a school playground in West Hartford, Gov.Dannel P. Malloy Thursday outlined a $12 million proposal to increase access to preschool and improve the quality of early childhood programs.

Dems Pitch Price Gouging Protections

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:51:29 -0500

CT NewsJunkie: When the next hurricane or major snowstorm hits Connecticut, Sen. Majority Leader Martin Looney and his colleagues have an idea that will keep plowers and roofers from ripping people off.

Connecticut Democrats want weather-related services added to anti-price gouging law

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:58:23 -0500

New Haven Register: Senate Democratic leaders are unveiling a bill that attempts to protect consumers from price gouging following storms.

Malloy commits $300 million to state public housing

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:49:14 -0500

CT Mirror: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy will make a 10-year, $330 million commitment to affordable housing in the budget he is proposing next week, with much of the money devoted to the rehabilitation of long-neglected, state-financed public housing.

Angel investors help local tech company raise $500,000

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:48:25 -0500

The Day: An "angel investor" tax-credit enhancement enacted late last year during the General Assembly's special jobs session already is paying dividends for Autotether LLC, a start-up technology company that announced today it has raised more than $500,000 to help market a device that prevents boats from operating after a person goes overboard.

Higher Education Committee Gets to Work Early

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:38:21 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Off to an early start, the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee voted Tuesday to raise 11 bills during the coming session - including one that will allow students attending state colleges to avoid taking remedial courses.

State legislators outline goals

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:38:08 -0500

Yale Daily News: Looney, Lemar and Holder-Winfield discussed with the Dems about what they said would be the state Democrats’ three biggest legislative priorities: voting reform, removal of the state death penalty and statewide education reform. All three legislators were hopeful that some of their bills affecting these issues would pass because Gov. Dannel Malloy currently holds the state executive’s seat, the first Democrat to do so in two decades.<

Anti-poverty advocates look to promote -- and protect -- new tax credit for working poor

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:17:44 -0500

CT Mirror: As tax season arrives, advocates for the Connecticut's new income tax credit for working poor families are trying to keep commercial tax preparers -- and revenue-hungry state officials -- from getting their hands on it.

Bond Commission Approves Jackson Lab Funding

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:24:34 -0500

Hartford Courant: The State Bond Commission granted final approval to spend $291 million for Jackson Laboratory to construct a new building and create 300 new bioscience jobs on the University of Connecticut Health Center campus in Farmington.

Prague Returns to the Capitol One Month After Suffering a Minor Stroke

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:18:03 -0500

Hartford Courant: About a month after suffering a minor stroke, veteran state Sen. Edith Prague returned to the state Capitol complex on Friday and announced her intention to run for reelection.

Hartford Pushes for Traffic Light Cameras

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:07:18 -0500

NBC Connecticut: The mayor of Hartford and the state Senator who represents the capital city are working together to appeal to the state Legislature to pass legislation to install cameras at traffic lights.

Senate Dems Outline 2012 Jobs Agenda. Hint: It’s Similar to The 2011 One

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:23:57 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Senate Democrats want to expand on programs created during the jobs special session and organize a “Connecticut Made” marketing campaign when the new legislative session starts Feb. 8.

Yale University’s West Campus may breed jobs

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:10:11 -0500

The Milford-Orange Bulletin: The new Yale University West Campus has 2,750 parking spaces, and state Sen. Gayle Slossberg, D-Milford, told Yale officials she’d like to see them all filled one day.

EDITORIAL: Pass law allowing red-light cameras

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:19:45 -0500

New Register: For the sake of saving lives and improving traffic safety, this may be the year that the legislature allows cities to install cameras at stop lights. This will be the eighth year that New Haven’s push for the law will be heard by the legislature.

Angel Investing Jumps With State Tax Credit

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:28:03 -0500

Hartford Courant: The state's urgent need to nurture and keep homegrown startup firms, long a weak area of economic development here, is showing some signs of progress with aggressive policies that started in 2010.

Lawmakers Propose Bill to Ban Another Chemical In Baby Products

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:40:07 -0500

CTNewJunkie: Sen. Terry Gerratana and Rep. Diana Urban – co-chairs of the Select Committee on Children – announced Thursday they will propose a bill to ban baby products that contain Chlorinated Tris from being sold in Connecticut.

Malloy launches express job-growth program with South Windsor company

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:34:25 -0500

CTMirror: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy used one of the new job creation tools Wednesday that state lawmakers authorized during last fall's special session, tapping a South Windsor company to launch the new Small Business Express Program.

Lawmakers to again consider cameras at red lights

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:54:09 -0500

The Day: A bill to allow red-light enforcement cameras in large and medium-sized cities is ready to cycle through the state legislature again this year.

Veteran Shows Off New Workplace Skills

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:54:13 -0500

The Daily Darien: Paul Torres had been bouncing from job to job and in and out of school since leaving the U.S. Navy in 1994. But with help from federally funded programs, he has found steady work in the energy efficiency trade.

Angel Investing Jumps With State Tax Credit

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:11:14 -0500

Hartford Courant: The Connecticut legislature's jobs package bill passed in May 2010 allowed angel investors who put at least $100,000 into a young, small Connecticut company in certain technology and science fields to deduct a quarter of that investment from their state income taxes. If their income tax liability isn't large enough to use up $25,000 — you'd need to earn nearly $400,000 a year to owe that much — they can carry the balance forward for several years.

Guv Backs Red Light Cams

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:00:19 -0500

New Haven Independent: As New Haven relaunches its annual campaign for a red light camera bill, Gov. Dannel Malloy came out in favor of the concept.

New Haven officials and others renew call for law that would allow red light cameras

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:36:21 -0500

New Haven Register: The city, members of the New Haven delegation and local safe street activists are making yet another run at state legislation that would allow it and other larger cities and towns to install traffic signal cameras to catch red light runners and mail them tickets.

Red-Light Camera Proposal Is Revived; Civil Liberties Group Again Opposes It

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 17:42:14 -0500

Hartford Courant: Public office-holders and citizen activists from New Haven again are pushing to get the Connecticut General Assembly to legalize use of automated cameras to issue traffic tickets to red light violators at intersections.

Task Force Tackles Fully Funding Education Formula

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 17:46:07 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s Education Cost Sharing Task Force narrowed its focus Friday and debated whether fully funding the formula should be one of its recommendations.

Jackson Laboratory Provides Bioscience Linchpin

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 16:40:06 -0500

Hartford Courant: The state's collaboration with the Maine-based nonprofit is about critical mass. It's about weaving universities and hospitals and research labs from across the state into a dynamic network of energy and ideas.

Malloy vows to improve education

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:40:52 -0500

The Day: In a stirring speech to a group of educators, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy pledged Thursday that his focus in this year's legislative session will be narrowing the achievement gap and improving all levels of public-school education in Connecticut.

Lawmakers Call On Governor To Fund A Decade Old Racial Profiling Law

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 09:59:48 -0500

CTNewsJunkie: Using the recent U.S. Department of Justice report which found the East Haven Police Department engaged in racially profiling Latino motorists, lawmakers called on Gov. Dannel P. Malloy Wednesday to get behind their efforts to fund the more than decade old Alvin Penn Racial Profiling Act.

Union: Better education 'not just test scores'

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:29:49 -0500

The education reform package advanced Tuesday by the state's largest teachers' union would speed up the dismissal process for poor teachers, but would not strengthen the link between job security and how well students do on state tests.

Preston, East Lyme, Voluntown awarded state grants that total $1.1 million

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:31:47 -0500

The Day: Three area towns have received state grants for various capital improvements projects totaling $1.1 million through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program.

Connecticut’s new partner in science tracks the root causes of disease, mouse by mouse

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 12:31:30 -0500

CTMirror: Mice are central to The Jackson Laboratory, to its history, its financing and its role in understanding human diseases. The fast-reproducing mammals give researchers a model to use to examine and test how genetic distinctions can cause diseases, and how they could be cured.