Senators Slap and Anwar Join Federal and Spiritual Leaders at Community Rally Against Hate

Posted on December 31, 2019 by Webmaster

Senators Anwar and Slap Join Federal and Spiritual Leaders at Community Rally Against Hate

WEST HARTFORD – Late this afternoon, state Senators Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) and Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman John Larson, Rabbi James Rosen of Beth El Temple, and The Most Reverend Peter A. Rosazza, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Hartford, at Beth El Temple in West Hartford in response to the December 28 attack on members of the Monsey New York Jewish Community during a Hanukkah celebration at a rabbi’s home.

“We must stand up and speak out against acts of antisemitism and acts of religious hatred,” Sen. Slap said. “Earlier this year I led a bipartisan effort seeking state bonding for enhanced security at houses of worship, and the recent acts of violence in New York, New Jersey and Texas speak to the importance of this legislation and the urgent need to get it approved. Our society is based on freedom of religion, and that includes freedom to pray and congregate without fear or intimidation.”

“It is tragic that during Hanukkah, bigotry and hatred once again swept through our community,” Sen. Anwar said. “As spiritual leaders, elected officials, and community members come together in the spirit of love and respect, we must be sure to speak loudly with a unified voice that we will tolerate nothing less than love and acceptance of all in our society. An attack on one is an attack on all, and in order to have a sustainable and healthy society, we must stand as a single force of harmony and love for each other.”

Senators Anwar and Slap Join Federal and Spiritual Leaders at Community Rally Against Hate

Posted on December 31, 2019 by Webmaster

Senators Anwar and Slap Join Federal and Spiritual Leaders at Community Rally Against Hate

New Year’s Energy Challenge

Posted on December 30, 2019 by Webmaster

New Year’s Energy Challenge

As I take time to reflect upon the past year, I realize how much I have learned. I have enthusiastically jumped in (admittedly, sometimes my eagerness was disguise for anxiety of the unknown) to all things new, and looked upon each learning as a gift. To that end, I could not have asked for a better role than to chair the Environment Committee. There is no doubt, we are in the midst of a climate crisis, but the more I delved in and studied, the more I recognized our ability to make meaningful change. There are so many things, big and small, that can make a difference as we think about climate action, but I am so far from doing all of the right things. So, as we enter a new decade, I want to challenge myself to live a better life. Rather than promising myself that I’ll workout more or eat healthier (which I also intend to do and hope it lasts more than a few days), I am going to make a commitment to the Earth, to our country and to this beautiful state. I am going to make a commitment for our children and our children’s children. I am going to make some changes to move towards a more sustainable, climate-conscious lifestyle. Will you take the challenge with me?

There are so many important steps that we can take to reduce our carbon footprint, ranging from major investments in new technology, to small changes in our everyday behavior.

Purchasing an electric car is one way to significantly lessen your impact on the natural world. Transportation makes up nearly one third of the United States’ carbon emissions each year, and the vast majority of those emissions come from private automobiles. While I’m not financially ready to make this leap, I will be working towards it in 2020.

Our homes take up an immense amount of energy as well, between heating, lighting, and powering our appliances. Installing solar panels or geothermal heating/cooling technology can significantly reduce both carbon emissions and electricity bills for a household.

Still, buying an electric car or installing new technology in your home is an expensive investment. If you are building a new home, undergoing renovations or in the market for a new vehicle, consider these options. However, if you are not there yet, below you will find some things that can be done everyday in 2020 to reduce carbon footprints and live a more sustainable life.

Reduce

The first way to lessen environmental impact is to reduce the amount of energy and materials that we use to begin with. The small habits below allow us to consume less electricity and create less waste without significantly altering how we live our lives.

Hang clothes to dry after washing
Use wool dryer balls to dry clothes on a shorter cycle
Go paperless by using your phone or computer rather than printing out materials or request bank and credit card statements via email
Compost your food waste (and look here for information on what to compost and how)
Buy materials in bulk, including food, household cleaning items (see below on making your own environmentally friendly cleansers), and toiletries
Bring your own water bottle to work, in the car, or anywhere else you go, rather than purchasing single-use plastic bottles
Skip balloons on birthdays and other events
Use natural cleaners on your kitchen and bathroom surfaces
Try beeswax wrap instead of tin foil or plastic wrap
Collect rainwater to water houseplants or the garden
Take fewer and shorter showers
Turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth
Say “no, thank you” to the straw when dining out
Conserve electricity and use LED bulbs where possible

Carbon Reduction

There are some specific habits that we can develop to make getting places more carbon efficient. These include:

Ride-sharing, either with friends and colleagues or with an app with carpool features
Use public transportation
Ride your bicycle or walk whenever possible
Do not let your car idle when stopped (a max of 3 minutes is the law)

Reuse/Recycle

While reducing our consumption is a great place to start, there are some household items that we simply can't live without. Still, being smart about how we use, reuse, and recycle our everyday products can make a big difference.

Bring reusable bags to the grocery store (thanks to our plastic bag ban, we are getting really good at this!)
Redeem deposited containers like soda and beer cans at the grocery store or a redemption center rather than placing them in the blue bin
“Upcycle" used materials into new crafts to make furniture, toys, decor and more
Buy clothes from consignment shops whenever possible and donate old, used clothing rather than throwing it away
Use cloth napkins and towels instead of paper – even bits of old t-shirts or towels can be turned into rags and washed
Use silverware instead of plastic utensils

Proper Disposal

Most people know how to recycle plastic bottles, newspapers, and other everyday items. Some items are a bit more complicated to recycle, but doing so can make a huge difference. There is special information available to help us properly dispose of these items:

Smoke detectors
Paint
Batteries
Ink cartridges

One important item that is not on this extensive list, but is a priority of mine for 2020, is buying local. Making sure we are sourcing our fruits, vegetables and meats from Connecticut farms significantly reduces carbon emissions, helps our agricultural community and promotes a green economy.

While no one is perfect, and as I mull over this list realize how very far from a good environmentalist I really am, I do know that every little bit helps. So, while a healthier you is an important resolution for the new year, consider joining me to create a healthier Connecticut and a better environment for future generations to come. Let me know, by commenting on my social media post, what changes you intend to make in the coming year. I hope you’ll see this challenge as fun, and as filled with potential, as I do! Happy New Year!

For more information on how to lessen your environmental impact in your everyday life, visit:
the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection website.

Duff Appoints Laura Carl to the Task Force to Analyze the Implementation of Laws Governing Dyslexia Instruction and Training

Posted on December 27, 2019 by Webmaster

Duff Appoints Laura Carl to the Task Force to Analyze the Implementation of Laws Governing Dyslexia Instruction and Training

HARTFORD, CT – Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) announced that he has appointed Laura Carl to the Task Force to Analyze the Implementation of Laws Governing Dyslexia Instruction and Training.

“Laura’s personal and professional experience working with students with disabilities and her tireless advocacy will be a great addition to this task force,” said Senator Bob Duff. “Her voice and expertise working specifically with students with dyslexia will help to inform the goals and mission of the task force going forward and I’m confident that solutions will be found to ensure students with disabilities receive the resources and support they need to succeed.”

Ms. Carl began her career as a police officer with the Bloomfield Police Department. Since 2016, she has worked as a Special Education Advocate in school districts throughout Connecticut. Through her work she has a strong knowledge and understanding of working with students with disabilities. Since 2014, she has served as a Parent Advocate with Decoding Dyslexia CT, a grassroots movement working to raise dyslexia awareness and empower families to support their children.

“I’m honored to be appointed to the Dyslexia Task Force,” said Ms. Carl. “My journey has been both personal & professional. I have two children whose educational experience has been impacted by dyslexia. I’d like to bring my story, passion, & advocacy to the task force, in hopes to further Connecticut’s commitment to develop policy & standards that benefit all children affected by dyslexia. I would like to thank Senator Duff for appointing me to this task force and his continued support of students with dyslexia. Senator Duff has continually recognized the advocacy efforts of parents, and I am privileged to serve under my capacity as a representative of an organization that advocates on behalf of the interests of parents and students with dyslexia.”

The Task Force to Analyze the Implementation of Laws Governing Dyslexia Instruction and Training was established in 2019 by Special Act 19-8. The board consists of 10 members who will make recommendations on issues relating to the implementation of laws governing dyslexia instruction and training in the state. The task force must submit a report on its findings and recommendations to the Education and High Education and Employment Advancement committees no later than January 1, 2021. The task force will terminate on the date it submits its final report or on January 1, 2021, whichever is later.

Ms. Carl received an Associate’s degree in Liberal Arts and Criminal Justice from Asnuntuck Community College in 2004. She received a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Charter Oak State College in 2018.

Sen. Lesser Applauds the Hartford Decision Not to Insure or Invest in Coal and Tar Sands Producers

Posted on December 23, 2019 by Webmaster

Sen. Lesser Applauds the Hartford Decision Not to Insure or Invest in Coal and
Tar Sands Producers

HARTFORD — State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown), co-Chair of Connecticut’s Insurance & Real Estate Committee, today applauded The Hartford on its decision to divest from the coal and tar sands industries.

On Friday, The Hartford announced it will no longer insure or invest in companies that generate more than 25 percent of their revenues from thermal coal mining or more than 25 percent of their energy production from coal, and will stop insuring and investing in companies that generate more than 25 percent of their revenues directly from the extraction of oil from tar sands.

“The catastrophic environmental damage caused by coal and the refining of tar sands is well-known and an unacceptable risk to human health. I’m happy to see that one of Connecticut’s most iconic businesses recognizes that and is taking thoughtful action to protect our citizens and our climate,” said Sen. Lesser. “This is a historic first step by CEO Christopher Swift and it makes sense as a business decision. From wildfires in California to flooding on the Connecticut shoreline, American insurers are on the front lines of paying out claims exacerbated by climate change. And with their investing and underwriting power, few companies have more power to fight climate change.

“The Hartford’s decision to be the first major U.S. insurance company to take this step is an important move that will send shockwaves through the industry. This is only a first step, and I know some issues like pipeline underwriting remain to be addressed, but I hope and expect this will serve as a model for other insurers to follow suit,” he said.

Sen. Lesser recently traveled to attend the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Climate Change Working Group.

“I saw how important the leadership of Connecticut and Connecticut-based insurers is across America on insurance- related issues. We need to continue to push for strong action on climate change, from industry and government,” Sen. Lesser said. “This policy from The Hartford demonstrates that Connecticut companies can lead on addressing climate change. I look forward to working with the insurance industry to support strong action in the months ahead.”

Sen. Lesser is Senate Chair of the General Assembly’s Insurance & Real Estate Committee, Senate Vice-Chair of the Public Health Committee, and a longtime advocate for improved public health policies. Sen. Lesser also recently achieved a perfect 100 percent score from the Connecticut League of Conservation reflecting his effectiveness in leading passage of, and voting for, pro-environment legislation affecting Connecticut and its 3.5 million citizens.

According to the company, The Hartford’s new policy includes:

No new underwriting of or investments in the construction and operation of new coal-fired plants;
No new underwriting of or investments in companies that generate more than 25 percent of their revenues from thermal coal mining or more than 25 percent of their energy production from coal;
No new underwriting of or investments in companies that generate more than 25 percent of their revenues directly from the extraction of oil from tar sands;
Phase out existing underwriting relationships and divest publicly traded investments which exceed the threshold by 2023; and
Exceptions for business lines that cover employees, such as disability, life and other voluntary products offered by our Group Benefits division – where we are providing protection to people.

Senator Flexer Celebrates State Education Funding for Thompson

Posted on December 23, 2019 by Webmaster

Senator Flexer Celebrates State
Education Funding for Thompson

HARTFORD – Last week, the Finance Advisory Committee approved an additional $400,000 in state funding for Thompson Public Schools, funding that state Senator Mae Flexer fought for during the legislative session and worked with the State Department of Education to secure.

Thompson was named an Alliance district in 2018, but because there was no update in the funding formulas for the Alliance program, the district was not eligible to receive an allocation for Fiscal Year 2019.

Sen. Flexer collaborated with the leadership of the school district to determine how best to secure the resources that would be given to an Alliance district the size of Thompson. The first step was securing $408,000 in the current biennium state budget in additional education aid for Thompson through Sen. Flexer’s advocacy. The second step was working closely with the state Department of Education and the Thompson school district to secure additional moneys from within the department’s budget. The state Department of Education understood the need for additional funding for Thompson and the school district’s commitment to improving student performance. This additional money will supplement the current funding for the town in order to further bolster Thompsons’ Public Schools’ efforts to improve outcomes for all students.

“I’m thrilled that the state Department of Education has committed this much needed funding for Thompson,” said Sen. Flexer. “It will provide support to the town’s public schools and ensure that our students receive the proper resources to succeed. I’m proud to have advocated for this additional funding alongside the Superintendent and members of the Thompson Board of Education to make sure that our shared community’s needs and interests were acknowledged in Hartford.”

“The students of Thompson Public Schools are fortunate to have Senator Mae Flexer continuing to advocate for additional resources to support their educational needs,” said Melinda Smith, Superintendent of Thompson Public Schools. “Thompson Schools were designated as an underperforming Alliance district nearly three years ago but has not received equitable funding that is given to other school districts with this classification to improve student achievement. Christmas came early to Thompson students this year as we were informed last week that due to Senator Flexer’s continuing efforts to secure this much needed assistance we will be awarded a grant to support a district wide improvement plan. On behalf of the members of the Thompson Board of Education and the children of Thompson we thank Senator Flexer for her steadfast support.”

“We are pleased to have played a role in securing these funds to allow Thompson to focus the additional resources it requires to improve student achievement throughout the district,” said state Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona. “These funds represent our commitment to investing in innovative strategies designed to transform the educational experiences and outcomes of traditionally underserved students in Thompson because, at the end of the day, all of our kids deserve a shot at success!”

The Finance Advisory Committee (FAC) approves transfers to or from any specific appropriation of a sum or sums in any one fiscal year of over $175,000 or ten percent of any specific appropriation, whichever is less. The committee is comprised of nine members and chaired by the Lieutenant Governor. Other members include the Governor, the State Comptroller, the State Treasurer, two Senators, and three Representatives.

Senator Flexer Celebrates Grant Release for Putnam Library

Posted on December 20, 2019 by Webmaster

Senator Flexer Celebrates Grant Release for Putnam Library

HARTFORD – State Senator Mae Flexer celebrated the release of funds from the State Bond Commission to benefit the Putnam Public Library. Through the State Library Construction Grant, the state will provide $1,000,000 for the construction of a new library in conjunction with the new Putnam municipal complex.

“This is exciting news for the town of Putnam,” said Senator Flexer. “The Putnam Public Library is an incredible resource for residents. This project will only enhance their ability to serve the needs of the community. I want to thank the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for this critical funding, as well as the residents of Putnam for their continued collaboration and advocacy for this project. A library represents the heart of any town and I’m thrilled that Putnam’s will become a part of this centralized municipal complex. This project will make it easier for residents to access various town services all in one place, and will undoubtedly benefit the town for generations to come. I am glad that our strong efforts in support of this funding over more than a year have resulted in this outcome.”

“Libraries are a critically important resource that advances the education of our young people, serves as a hub to enhance professional development, and connects communities together,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “The library in Putnam served the town well for many decades but quite frankly, it’s in need of a good modernization. With this grant, Putnam will be able to construct a new library that will provide its residents with a critical resource for many decades into the future, and I am glad that we were able to help the town get this done.”

Both the library, built in 1955, and the Town Hall, originally constructed as a high school in 1874, are in need of major repairs and lack adequate space to manage existing library and municipal services. Plans for a new library have been discussed for many years. A plan to build a new municipal center was conceived in 2015 that would house the library and town offices at what is currently the Owen Tarr Sports Complex at the corner of Providence and School streets. Later that year, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection outlined a plan to allow the town to move the current sports fields to the undeveloped land on Sabin Street and utilize the recreation space at the Owen Tarr complex for the municipal center.

In September 2018, the town held a referendum in which Putnam residents voted to approve the full cost of the plan on a 568 to 291 margin. In addition to the library and the Town Hall, a community center, senior center, and the Aspinock Historical Society will also be located within the new municipal complex.

New Haven Delegation Applauds Approved State Funding for City Projects

Posted on December 20, 2019 by Webmaster

New Haven Delegation Applauds Approved State Funding for City Projects

State bond commission approves funding for Youth Continuum, RMS Downtown South-Hill Development Company, and Glendower Group

HARTFORD – HARTFORD, CT – Today, the New Haven delegation applauded the approval of $8.9 million in state funding from the State Bond Commission to benefit a number of projects in the city of New Haven.

Youth Continuum Inc., an organization that provides at-risk, neglected, abused, runaway and homeless youth with shelter, basic needs and support services, received a $2,500,000 grant-in-aid for the rehabilitation and addition of 20 beds at its youth shelter on Grand Avenue.

RMS Downtown South-Hill Development Company received $2,751,000 for a loan for the development of the Hill-to-Downtown project at 49 Prince Street. This will renovate the historic building into 30 rental housing units. The Hill-to-Downtown Project envisions remaking the district into a vibrant, walkable, and mixed-use neighborhood.

Glendower Group, a subsidiary of the New Haven Housing Authority, received a $3,700,000 loan to assist with the redevelopment at Farnam Court 1. The construction will include 2 new buildings comprising 94 units. 86 units will be subject to affordability restrictions at 50% of area median income. Eight units will be at market rate and there will be three commercial spaces.

“Thanks to the State Bond Commission and Governor Ned Lamont, New Haven will be receiving funding for some highly significant projects,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven). “Youth Continuum provides critical services to at-risk youth, and this grant will allow it to expand its impact and reach in the community. Investment in the Hill-to-Downtown Project and the Glendower Group construction projects highlights our commitment to affordable housing and balanced growth of our city.”

“Investments in affordable housing and our youth are crucial for a thriving city,” State Senator Gary Winfield (D-New Haven). ”I’m grateful to the State Bond Commission and Governor Ned Lamont for the allocation of these funds, as they will help to ensure more residents have access to affordable housing and at-risk youth will receive the services they need to succeed and gain self-sufficiency.”

“Thank you to Governor Lamont for recognizing the importance that affordable housing and investments in our youth have for our growing community,” Rep. Al Paolillo (D-New Haven) said. “The renovations to our historic buildings with The Hill-to-Downtown Project Hill-to-Downtown Project and the Glendower Group project show our commitment to making sure residents have affordable places to live in our community, and the Youth Continuum project helps those at risk who are who need shelter that struggle to find housing.”

“Reliable shelter and housing are the corner stones of functional communities,” Rep. Juan Candelaria (D-New Haven) said. “These bond items will go a long way toward enhancing housing options in New Haven for those that face difficulties. I thank Governor Lamont for supporting this important funding and I know it will go a long way in enhancing lives.”

“The Hill-to-Downtown project offers the promise of housing units in an historic building,” said Rep. Pat Dillon (D-New Haven). “Thank you to the Bond Commission for supporting housing in the Hill neighborhood.”

“These projects, especially the Youth Continuum, are vital and I’m grateful that we’ve been able to provide the funding,” Rep. Toni Walker (D-New Haven) said. “Our children are our future and projects like these will help move New Haven forward.”

“Many of our children – through no fault of theirs – have been traumatized and are now at risk,” said Rep. Robyn (D-Hamden, New Haven). “This funding will help support and shelter them so they can overcome the past and find a path to promise and prosperity for a brighter future, which will certainly benefit us all. For this reason, I’d like to thank everyone who worked to make the funding for this project and the others possible.”

“I am thrilled to see these housing investments move forward as each investment will yield a significant positive impact for our neighbors and the City of New Haven as a whole,” said Rep. Roland Lemar (D-New Haven). “It is no secret that the housing needs many of our neighbors face are chronically unavailable to them, through all different walks of life, and these vitally important developments will help so many families and individuals secure the housing they need.”

“I was pleased to see the Bond Commission approve the $2,751,000 for a loan to RMS Downtown South-Hill Development Company for the development of the Hill to Downtown project,” said Representative Michael DiMassa (D-New Haven/West Haven). “This project is vital for the continued development of the area and connection between the Hill and Downtown.”

New Haven Delegation Applauds Approved State Funding for City Projects

Posted on December 20, 2019 by Webmaster

New Haven Delegation Applauds Approved State Funding for City Projects

State bond commission approves funding for Youth Continuum, RMS Downtown South-Hill Development Company, and Glendower Group

Senator Anwar Joins CSCU Leaders at Launch of Pledge to Advance Connecticut

Posted on December 19, 2019 by Webmaster

Senator Anwar Joins CSCU Leaders at Launch of Pledge to Advance Connecticut

EAST HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) joined Connecticut State Colleges and Universities leaders including CSCU President Mark Ojakian and lawmakers including Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee co-chairs Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) and Representative Gregg Haddad (D-Mansfield) as they officially launched PACT, or the Pledge to Advance Connecticut, Connecticut’s program providing free community college to students. PACT, part of the 2019-2020 biennial budget and adopted as policy by the Board of Regents for Higher Education today, will make Connecticut’s 12 community colleges tuition and fee-free for thousands of students.

“We must support our students, especially as student loan debt continues to rise throughout our country,” said Sen. Anwar. “I am proud of this PACT program. It represents a new opportunity for thousands of people to access higher education without having to take on debt or make financial sacrifices. Connecticut is becoming a leader in affordable education, and I am excited to see what state leaders will do next.”

“PACT is a powerful message to potential students in Connecticut that education is attainable—and that we are investing in the future of our state,” said President Ojakian. “PACT will make access to Connecticut’s community college system even more affordable—while maintaining excellence in education. It is our pledge to support the state’s advancement— with productive citizens and skilled workers prepared to fill the jobs of the 21st century economy. At a time when we face a student debt crisis in the United States, this represents a great opportunity for potential students to access a high quality education close to home with no out-of-pocket costs.”

PACT will support students beginning in the fall 2020 semester who fit five criteria. They must be graduates of Connecticut high schools, be full-time attending college for the first time, complete an application for federal financial aid and accept all awards, remain in good academic standing and apply and register by July 15, 2020 for priority consideration.

Students meeting those criteria can attend any community college in Connecticut for up to three years free of mandatory tuition and fees related to eligible programs. Awards are limited to fall and spring semesters and are available regardless of family income. PACT awards go into effect after all other sources of financial aid, though student loans, work-study programs and financial assistance for non-tuition and fees expenses are not considered financial aid. Students with eligible costs covered by existing financial aid can receive awards of a minimum of $250 per semester.

To learn more about the program, visit ct.edu/pact.