Senator Haskell Supports Raising Bill to Address Data Caps
After hearing from numerous constituents about new data caps imposed on frustrated customers, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) joined his colleagues on the Energy & Technology Committee to support raising a bill to address the issue.
“Honestly, it’s hard to imagine a worse time for internet providers to impose these data caps. With so many students engaged in remote learning and so many constituents working from home, I’m eager to explore how Connecticut can lend a hand and impose some much-needed consumer protections,” said Sen. Haskell. “As many folks in my community are well aware, Comcast reinstated its data cap this month. Although Connecticut may be limited by federal preemption statutes, it’s critical that our state do everything possible to support the needs of those who are staying home and promoting public health.”
This renewed focus on data caps by the committee, with specific legislation to be released in the coming weeks, comes as the restrictive practice takes on new significance in Connecticut and beyond. While many internet service providers implement data caps, Comcast recently expanded its 1.2-terabyte data cap into Connecticut at the beginning of this year. That means Comcast customers who use more than 1,200 gigabytes of data in a month will have to either pay an additional $10 for every 50 extra gigabytes of data they use or upgrade their plans to more expensive monthly ones.
While research by industry vendors found that just under 10 percent of internet customers use more than a terabyte of data per month, that number has likely risen since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, as children and adults have shifted daily routines from schools and workplaces to home offices and kitchen tables. A Zoom group meeting can use as much as 2.4 gigabytes of data per hour, while watching a high-definition two-hour film on Netflix can use up to 6 gigabytes of data, and digital technology is only using more data as technological advances progress.
Additionally, data caps can be considered a source of revenue for companies, even as company leaders may claim they protect internal systems. Earlier in 2020, when Comcast waived its data cap for customers, it boasted its network handled the increased usage, which raises the question of why reimposing such a cap is necessary.
Senator Flexer Encourages Qualified Residents to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine in the Quiet Corner
Senator Flexer Encourages Qualified Residents to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine in the Quiet Corner
THE QUIET CORNER — As of today, Tuesday, January 26, Connecticut reported 1,267 newly confirmed COVID-19 infections statewide. Tragically, another 23 deaths due to COVID-19 complications were reported, increasing the pandemic’s total death toll here in our beloved state to 6,934. Currently, more than 1,000 people are hospitalized in Connecticut with COVID-19.
With this in mind, Senator Mae Flexer is reminding people that Connecticut is undertaking a massive initiative to distribute COVID-19 vaccines to residents. While no process is perfect, Connecticut is a national leader in the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, with the fourth-highest percentage in America of any state population having received the vaccine so far.
“The only way we are going to return to any semblance of normal life and economic activity is by undertaking a very broad COVID-19 vaccination program. I would encourage anyone who does not have a medical exemption to get their vaccine as soon as possible so we can help bring an end to this awful pandemic,” Sen. Flexer said.
COVID-19 vaccination appointments are now being offered by Walgreens, CVS, and other locations here in the Quiet Corner. There’s also a statewide computer portal you can visit to set up an account and book an appointment for a shot.
If you are age 75 and older or if you fall under any of the Phase 1a vaccination categories (healthcare personnel, long-term care facility residents, medical first responders), and you have not already scheduled your COVID-19 vaccine, you can explore some of the vaccination options below:
203 Kennedy Drive, Putnam
1093 North Main Street, Dayville
200 Westminster Road, Canterbury
20 Prospect Street, Moosup
57 Providence Pike, Putnam
- Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS): https://dphsubmissions.ct.gov/OnlineVaccine
Qualified individuals may fill out the VAMS form at the link above. Just because you fill out this form DOES NOT automatically register you in VAMS. The application form simply lets the state Department of Public Health know that you are interested in creating an account in VAMS.
If you are currently eligible to receive a vaccine, you should receive an email within 12 hours from VAMS to complete your registration. Be sure to check your Spam and Junk folders if a reply doesn’t show up in your Inbox.
Appointments are being scheduled through VAMS at the Northeast District Department of Health, Day Kimball Hospital, Windham Hospital, Generations Family Health Center in Putnam and Willimantic, and at various other locations across northeastern CT.
Those who lack access to schedule an appointment online may also call the COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments Assistance Line, 877-918-2224, Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Due to high volume, hold times may vary.
Legislative Delegation for Ansonia and Derby Joined by Dept. of Economic and Community Development Commissioner and Local Officials for Tour of Downtown Ansonia and Derby to View Prospective Development Sites
Legislative Delegation for Ansonia and Derby Joined by Dept. of Economic and Community Development Commissioner and Local Officials for Tour of Downtown Ansonia and Derby to View Prospective Development Sites
HARTFORD, Conn. – Today, members of the Ansonia and Derby legislative delegations, including Labor Committee Vice Chair state Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden), State Representatives Kara Rochelle (D-Ansonia, Derby) and Mary Welander (D-Derby, Orange, Woodbridge), joined Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner David Lehman, officials from the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments and Bill Purcell, President and CEO of the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce, for a walkthrough of downtown Ansonia and Derby to view prospective development sites. State Representative Nicole Klarides-Ditria planned to participate in the walkthrough but was unable to attend. As the state continues to recover from the global pandemic, the legislative delegation is eager to locate opportunities for job creation and economic growth in both Derby and Ansonia.
“We know, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people across our state are hurting. Therefore, we must be malleable and innovative to identify real job creating opportunities for the people of Ansonia and Derby,” said Sen. Cabrera. “Today’s walkthrough has allowed us to have important conversations regarding potential growth opportunities for both locations. The hard-working communities of Ansonia and Derby deserve nothing less and I am eager to build on the momentum of today as we look to further enrich these areas.”
“Today’s tour is an opportunity to kickstart the next phase of economic development in Ansonia and Derby, two communities that have been overlooked for far too long. We are committed to rolling up our sleeves and unlocking this region’s potential by building vibrant, walkable downtowns that bring jobs and grand list growth, with the goal of lowering taxes locally,” said Rep. Rochelle. “We have seen some progress with development projects in recent years, and I will work to strengthen the partnership between key stakeholders at the state and local levels to break ground and build a brighter future for our region. I am excited to continue this work, which will benefit the hardworking residents of our communities and revitalize our region.”
“I’m grateful that the Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development, David Lehman, and Deputy Commissioner, Glendowlyn Thames, were able to join us in Derby today so they could see firsthand the potential this city and the entire region has,” said Rep. Welander. “As I have said in the past, Derby has all the pieces people look for when putting together a successful small city; I am confident with the right state level partnerships those pieces will finally click and the lives of residents will see direct improvement. I am proud to be part of this effort to help Derby move forward.”
“Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 I wasn’t able to attend today’s walkthrough of Ansonia and Derby properties in person, but I am excited for the future preservation, redevelopment and continued resurgence of our downtown,” Rep. Klarides-Ditria said. “With a small investment from the state, Connecticut’s smallest city can be transformed from its industrial past into a destination for small businesses, young professionals and growing families looking for an urban experience in a small, friendly community.”
Looney & Ritter Respond to Republican Letter Opposing COVID-19 Safety Measures
Looney & Ritter Respond to Republican Letter Opposing COVID-19 Safety Measures
Connecticut Republicans are underplaying the seriousness of the crisis and the administrative challenges of distributing the vaccines while we are dealing with ongoing consequences of the ineptitude and inadequate planning of the previous Republican national administration.
There are many areas of our COVID-19 response that require immediate executive action related to the pandemic and vaccination distribution. A vast majority of the Governor’s orders cut red tape quickly, in a matter of a day or even hours, to provide rapid pandemic response and economic relief to businesses, municipalities and residents.
We are confident the General Assembly will maintain and assert its proper role during the legislative session especially in the budget process in both allocation of our own revenues and what may come through the federal pipeline where there is state discretion.”
-Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven)
-Speaker of the House Matt Ritter (D-Hartford)
Joint Statement of Senate President Looney and House Speaker Ritter re: reauthorizing emergency powers during pandemic
Joint Statement of Senate President Looney and House Speaker Ritter re: reauthorizing emergency powers during pandemic
“We have agreed to extend the Governor’s emergency declaration until April 20th.
Our sole focus continues to be safeguarding all Connecticut residents during this historic pandemic. Addressing the pandemic is larger than any one branch of government – Governor Lamont has worked with legislators to keep us all safe, respond to developments from Washington, and keep our economy going. A pandemic team with an unapparelled level of expertise has been assembled by the Governor’s office and prematurely revoking emergency authority would disrupt Connecticut’s ability to respond to COVID and distribute the vaccine.
When we are talking about quick public health decisions – vaccines, masks, crowd restrictions – we believe executive action is the proper path. But any action that seeks to spend taxpayer dollars, must go through the legislature. We have had very fruitful conversations with the Governor and his staff and we believe that we are all looking to work together for Connecticut.”
-Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven)
-Speaker of the House Matt Ritter (D-Hartford)
Senator Hartley, Rep. Napoli Applaud Infrastructure Grant Awarded to Waterbury
Senator Hartley Leads Meeting of Bipartisan Manufacturing Caucus
State Senator Joan Hartley (D-15) and State Representative Ronald A. Napoli Jr. (D-73), members of the Waterbury legislative delegation, applauded the awarding of a $459,817 Community Connectivity Grant for infrastructure improvements. The infrastructure upgrades will give people improved accessibility to travel and safer walking routes in the area around Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury. The city was one of only 10 municipalities in Connecticut chosen to receive a grant in this distribution round of funds.
The Community Connectivity Grant funding will go to two sidewalk projects. First, a 1,200 linear foot concrete sidewalk installation from Chase Parkway to Park Road. This sidewalk will provide people a safe route to walk between Naugatuck Valley Community College and a shopping area at Park Road. In addition, the grant will fund a sidewalk project along West Main Street.
“The improvement of infrastructure is key to enhancing the long-term growth of a community. This over $450,000 investment will better connect residents, students, and visitors to Waterbury’s education and business centers,” said Sen. Hartley. “Thank you to all involved in the awarding of this grant.”
“These sidewalks are a welcome addition to our neighborhoods by increasing access to higher education and commerce in Waterbury,” said Rep. Napoli. “This will provide pedestrians and bicyclists with a beautiful and safe pathway and I am very appreciative of the DOT and all parties involved with making these funds available for such a worthwhile project.”
The Community Connectivity Grant Program (CCGP) is an infrastructure improvement program administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation that provides construction funding for local initiatives focused on improving the safety and accessibility for pedestrians and bicyclists in and around community centers in Connecticut. The CCGP is a part of the Community Connectivity Program.
Senator Hartley Leads Meeting of Bipartisan Manufacturing Caucus
Senator Hartley Leads Meeting of Bipartisan Manufacturing Caucus
State Senator Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury), co-chair of the Connecticut General Assembly’s bipartisan Manufacturing Caucus, hosted a meeting of the caucus’ membership on identifying issues of significance for the state’s manufacturing community and developing potential legislative actions to address issues raised.
“The stability and expansion of the manufacturing industry is a crucial part of Connecticut’s economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic,” said Sen. Hartley. “I appreciate all the participating stakeholders sharing their insights on how the Connecticut General Assembly can support manufacturing companies and their employees at the meeting.”
Numerous business, manufacturing, and education stakeholders, including the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc. and UConn’s Tech Park, were in attendance to offer their perspectives on how the state can support the growth and development of manufacturers in the state. Remarks were presented by Colin Cooper, Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer; and Kelli-Marie Vallieres, Executive Director for the state’s Office of Workforce Strategy.
State Senator Mary Daugherty Abrams Joins Sen. Maroney, State Representatives Welander, McCarthy Vahey and Steinberg Along with Community Members for Virtual Suicide Prevention Policy Summit Hosted by the University of New Haven
State Senator Mary Daugherty Abrams Joins Sen. Maroney, State Representatives Welander, McCarthy Vahey and Steinberg Along with Community Members for Virtual Suicide Prevention Policy Summit Hosted by the University of New Haven
HARTFORD, CT – Today, Public Health Senate Chair state Senator Mary Daugherty Abrams (D- Meriden, Middlefield, Rockfall, Middletown, Cheshire), joined state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford), and state Representatives Mary Welander (D Orange), Public Health House Chair Jonathan Steinberg (D-Westport), and Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Fairfield) for a virtual suicide prevention policy summit hosted by the University of New Haven. The summit provided legislators and community members with a space to discuss policy solutions to improve the mental health and wellness of Connecticut residents.
“Prior to the pandemic, we were making great strides in identifying solutions to prevent suicides among Connecticut residents. These unprecedented times brought on due to the pandemic have only exacerbated the mental health challenges of many high school and college students and adults across our state,” said Sen. Daugherty Abrams. “The challenges of this time do however provide us with an opportunity to focus more of our attention on building and nurturing effective mental health preservation practices. I commend Senator Maroney and the University of New Haven for their contributions in this area and I remain committed, as Senate Chair of the Public Health Committee, to continue working to ensure we are doing all we can to proactively prevent suicide deaths in Connecticut.”
According to the United Health Foundation, the suicide rate increased from 25.4% from 1999 to 2016. In 2018, there were an estimated 1.4 million suicide attempts and more than 48,000 deaths by suicide, making it the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. Mental health disorders and substance use disorders are the most significant risk factors for suicidal behaviors.
According to the CDC, death by suicide increased since the coronavirus pandemic began and the number of people who have considered suicide has increased among young adults as well. In August 2020, surveys were conducted among adults over 18 years of age and 10.7% of respondents reported they seriously considered suicide in the 30 days prior to taking the survey. Meanwhile 25.5% of younger adults, ages 18-24, reported they seriously considered suicide.
“Suicide is preventable and today’s conversation was a reminder to all to know the warning signs and know that help is always available,” said Sen. Maroney. “Now is the time to take action and be there for youth and adults. One of my goals is to incorporate the great universities here in Connecticut in our policy making. It is important that we work together. Talking about mental health is the start of the conversation. I am committed to continuing to find solutions to put an end to a preventable health threat. Right now, we are living through collective trauma and as a community we are fighting to recover and re-build Connecticut. Individually, people are hurting mentally with a sense of hopelessness. Through this discussion, I am hopeful we will continue to bring new solutions to members of the community, including children and adults, in order to help those fighting their challenges and know there is always someone willing to listen.”
“In the midst of a pandemic, with every day stresses amplified, and with the omnipresence of social media, dialogue surrounding suicide prevention is vital now, more than ever before,” said Rep. Welander. “It is our responsibility to look for paths and partnerships to create greater access to suicide prevention and postvention support programs to fully address this health crisis. This summit is a continuation of that important work and I am proud to be part of this conversation.”
“As a social worker and QPR trainer, I know that our prevention efforts can make a difference and save lives,” said Rep. McCarthy Vahey. “Using evidence-based practices, working together with experts and continuing to shine a light on how we can prevent suicide is so critical right now. People are hurting in so many ways, which means more people are at risk. Let’s do everything we can to provide the hope, help and support people need.”
“The pandemic has ravaged our community in many ways, including increased isolation and depression. People are vulnerable,” said Rep. Steinberg. “We’re committed to taking a proactive approach in suicide prevention and expect to develop a bill which will enable the best practices and programs in our state to ameliorate this public health threat.”
Strategies discussed during today’s suicide prevention summit included the importance of intervening at multiple levels, which include taking preventative measures at schools, establishing mindfulness programs, creating community-based programs in a medical setting for those exposed to childhood or dating violence and individualized treatment at hospitals or outpatient treatment centers for anyone who has attempted to die by suicide. Help is available 24/7 by dialing 211 for anyone struggling during this time. There is also a crisis text line: text CT to 741741.
Sen. Cohen Addresses Environmental Priorities at CTLCV Environmental Summit
Sen. Cohen Addresses Environmental Priorities at CTLCV Environmental Summit
GUILFORD – State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), who is Senate Chair of the legislature’s Environment Committee, outlined some of her environmental public policy priorities for the next two years when she spoke today to the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters’ 2021 Environmental Summit.
The event was held virtually via Zoom and was part of the CTLCV’s three-day summit focusing on waste reduction, environmental justice, PFAS and the chemicals used in packaging, municipal funding for open space, modernizing the electrical grid, wildlife, transportation, and advocacy.
“I look forward to this summit every year as an opportunity to inform people about the work that the Environment Committee is doing and to gain insights and new understandings from conservationists, advocates and community experts,” Sen. Cohen said. “We all share a real passion for reducing the impacts of climate change and ensuring that our state, our country and our Earth can be enjoyed and remain healthy for many generations to come.”
“All of us have a responsibility to act with those interests in mind, and we will do that in the coming months when we introduce and debate vital public policies that deal with reducing waste and materials management, carbon sequestration and an evolution to renewables, and maintaining the purity of our state waterways with various resilience projects and purification methods,” Sen. Cohen added. “As always, I am looking forward to another robust environmental agenda this year, with hearty discussions and a lot of public input. Speaking today to the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters was a great start!”
One of Sen. Cohen’s first environmental priorities for 2020 is to approve the Long Island Sound Blue Plan, which provides an inventory of the natural resources and uses of Connecticut’s Long Island Sound and guides future use of the Sound’s waters and submerged lands. The final draft of the Plan was submitted to the Environment Committee early last year, but the coronavirus pandemic prevented legislative action on the matter.
Sen. Cohen today also praised new pro-environment actions at the federal level under the new administration of President Joe Biden, particularly the cancellation of the Keystone XL Pipeline and the United States rejoining the Paris Climate Accord.
The first full meeting of the legislature’s Environment Committee is scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, January 22, 2021, beginning at 10 a.m. The committee plans to draft a resolution approving the Long Island Sound Blue Plan, and will also raise the following bills as concepts to be drafted and debated:
- AN ACT CONCERNING THE USE OF FIREFIGHTING FOAM CONTAINING PFAS FOR TRAINING PURPOSES
- AN ACT CONCERNING CERTAIN ENHANCEMENTS TO AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMS
- AN ACT CONCERNING CERTAIN ENHANCEMENTS TO AQUACULTURE PROGRAMS
- AN ACT CONCERNING AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES CONTROL AND RELATED FUNDING FOR LAKES
- AN ACT CONCERNING ELECTRONIC RECORDKEEPING RELATING TO PESTICIDE USE
- AN ACT CONCERNING MINOR REVISIONS TO CERTAIN FISHING PROGRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
- AN ACT CONCERNING EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY FOR DISCARDED TIRES, SMOKE DETECTORS AND GAS CYLINDERS
About three dozen other bills have been filed so far with the Environment Committee for consideration in the current 2021 legislative session.
Statemen of Senator Christine Cohen on Today’s Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris
Statemen of Senator Christine Cohen on Today’s Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris
State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford) today issued the following statement on the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris:
“The inauguration of Joe Biden as America’s 46th president brings a renewed sense of optimism and promise. I look forward to President Biden and Vice President Harris — our first female vice-president and first vice-president of color — uniting our country once again with the goal of improved well-being for all. I am thrilled to see the nomination and hopeful installation of a very diverse and qualified set of cabinet appointees who really represent the breadth and depth of ethnic and racial diversity in America, in addition to the tremendous skillset they bring to the table. There is a sense of focus around the issues that concern us all and unite us as Americans: fighting the coronavirus, delivering financial relief to families in need, growing jobs and the economy, expanding access to health care and creating a cleaner environment. I have high hopes for this incredible team to bring our nation together, repair foreign relations, heal open wounds, and bring us toward a brighter, healthier and more prosperous future.”