Democrats Unveil State Budget that Invests in Towns, Education, Nonprofits and Equity

Posted on April 22, 2021 by Webmaster

Democrats Unveil State Budget that Invests in Towns, Education, Nonprofits and Equity

Listening to residents affected by the pandemic, responding to racial equity concerns

HARTFORD – After enduring a year of coronavirus-related social service demands and reminders of the damaging effects of racial injustice, the Democratic co-chairs of the Appropriations Committee today unveiled a proposed biennial state budget that invests in Connecticut’s towns, schools, nonprofits and racial equity without exceeding the state spending cap or touching the $3.5 billion Rainy Day Fund.

State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) and state Representative Toni Walker (D-New Haven) say the Democrats’ legislative budget proposal demonstrates the vital role that state government can and must play in the lives of its citizens when public health and safety and racial equity are on the line and the social safety net of state programs must not only be maintained, but in some cases expanded.

“We’ve spent months on this budget, listening to the people of Connecticut talk to us online and via email about what they need and value and want. They have experienced a lot over the past year, and that has informed us as to what and where we need to spend money in order to recover from the coronavirus pandemic and get Connecticut back on track for growth and prosperity over the next two years,” Sen. Osten said. “We’re in a good place. This is a budget that Connecticut residents can be very proud of, one that invests in our towns and education and our nonprofits in a way that we have ignored for far too long while also chipping away at some issues of racial injustice.”

“The biennial budget takes months of time, consideration and observation on any given budget year, but this year, we had to make sure we were doing all we could do to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic that has crippled not only our state, but also our nation,” Rep. Walker said. “Connecticut residents have had to work hard and make sacrifices over the past year, but it’s because of this dedication that our state is poised for recovery. This budget addresses systemic inequities that have plagued Connecticut communities for decades by removing archaic obstacles and reinvesting in the communities we call home. Connecticut will be proud of this budget.”

The Appropriations Committee is recommending a Fiscal Year 2022 General Fund budget (beginning July 1, 2021) of $20.574 billion – an increase of $488 million, or 2.43%, over the current FY 2021 General Fund budget of $20.086 billion – and a $21.349 billion General Fund budget for FY 2023.

The committee’s total proposed biennial state budget – including the Special Transportation Fund, Banking Fund, Insurance Fund, Consumer Counsel and Public Utility Control Fund, Workers’ Compensation Fund, Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Fund, Regional Market Operation Fund, Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund and Tourism Fund – is $22.569 billion in FY 22 and $23.449 billion in FY 223.

Some budget highlights include:

Cities and towns:

Keeps the 2017 bipartisan state budget promises related to municipal Education Cost Sharing (ECS) funding and maintains the current rollout of the ECS funding formula, providing an additional $108 million to cities and towns over the next two years. It also provides an additional $4.7 million in FY 22 and $9.4 million in FY 23 to school systems with higher numbers of low-income students and English Language Learner students.
The Municipal Revenue Sharing Account was established by Public Act 15-244 as a diversion of one-half of 1 percent of sales tax revenue primarily for three municipal grants: 1) supplemental PILOT funding to towns with high levels of tax-exempt property, 2) reimbursement to municipalities that lose revenue as a result of the car tax cap, and 3) general revenue sharing grants to towns. MRSA has never been funded but, under current law, the $377 million diversion into the account is set to take effect in FY 22.
Fully funds Local Health District state grants with funding of $2.7 million in both FY 22 and FY 23, an increase of 75 cents per-person in the formulaic grant.

Education, from birth to college:

Provides $14 million in FY 22 and $15 million in FY 23 from the estimated FY 21 surplus for the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system to fully implement debt-free community college. Bills under consideration by the legislature would provide ongoing revenue from online lottery revenues for debt-free community college, with growing revenues expected from that source in the out years.
Provides funding of $2,078,000 in FY 22 and $1,969,100 in FY 23 to reflect the elimination of fees paid by parents or legal guardians of children receiving Birth to Three services and to expand coverage to children who turn age three on or after May 1, until the start of the school year.
Provides Danbury and Norwalk with $275,000 in FY 22 and $900,000 in FY 23 to establish an Open Choice pilot in Danbury and Norwalk.
Provides $3.7 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to increase the state per-pupil grant for Vocational Agriculture schools by $1,000.
Provides charter schools with $2,950,200 in FY 22 and $2,959,550 to increase the per-pupil charter school grant from $11,250 to $11,525. The budget also provides funding for grade growth within some charter schools. It also allocates $1,260,982 in additional support for charter schools with English Language Learners (ELL). This will start a phase-in of the weights relative to ELL and poverty levels that are considered in the ECS formula. This will provide parity between traditional public schools and public charter schools.
Provides $250,000 each year for the Farm-to-School Grant Program implementation which assists schools in procuring food from local farmers, nutrition/health education, school gardens and education about local food systems.
Provides four positions and corresponding funding of $480,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23 associated with funding the newly established Dyslexia Training Compliance office within the state Department of Education.
Provides $110,548 in FY 22 and $114,800 in FY 23 to support one engineer intern to enhance response to drinking water issues in schools undergoing construction projects, and one environmental analyst to assist the agency in its continued administration of safe drinking water standards for public drinking water.

Nonprofits:

Provides $50 million in direct support from the FY 21 surplus to the non-profit providers of health and human services that contract with state agencies. In addition, the budget provides an additional $30 million in FY 22 and FY 23 to these agencies.
Provides $10 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to reflect Medicaid rate increases to providers of home health (skilled and unskilled nursing) and waiver services providers. After considering the federal share, providers will receive approximately $20 million in the aggregate each year.
Maintains funding of $13,751,300 in FY 22 and $29,903,900 in FY 23 to support statutory rate increases for nursing homes ($11.1 million in FY 22 and $24.3 million in FY 23), intermediate care facilities ($700,000 in FY 22 and $1.5 million in FY 23), and boarding homes ($1,951,300 in FY 22 and $4,103,900 in FY 23). A portion of the increased funding for nursing homes (75%) must support staffing costs (excluding executive salaries).
Provides $1.6 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to support a minimum ICF rate of $501 per diem.

Justice and Equity

Provides $250,000 each year to establish the state Commission on Racial Equity in Public Health within the state Office of Legislative Management.
Provides cost-free communications for incarcerated persons.
Removes the John Mason statue from State Capitol grounds and relocates it to the Old State House with an appropriate historical context. In 1637, Mason led the attack and burning of a fortified Pequot village that killed more than 400 men, women and children and nearly wiped out the tribe.
Project Longevity is an initiative to reduce serious violence in Connecticut’s cities; the program uses a combination of community and social services and policing to influence group dynamics. Funding carried forward from FY 21 is provided to support an increase in Project Longevity funding of $250,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23.
To help comply with various aspects of “An Act Concerning Police Accountability,” the budget provides funding of $69,656 in FY 22 and $72,335 in FY 23 to hire one field program assistant to audit the police training school, training records, instructor certification, and certification requirements. Provides funding of $1,341,652 in FY 22 and $1,364,673 in FY 23 to establish an Office of the Inspector General within the Division of Criminal Justice.
Provides $15.4 million in FY 22 and $41.5 million in FY 23 to allow for an increase in staffing for inmate medical services.
The Conviction Integrity Unit will re-investigate the cases of convicted persons who claim to be wrongfully convicted and will seek review outside the traditional, court-based habeas process. Provide funding of $363,382 in FY 22 and $375,425 in FY 23. This includes funding for three positions (prosecutor, police inspector, and paralegal) and $50,000 for independent consultants to advise the unit on questions involving scientific testing, methodologies, and forensic evidence collection issues.
EMERGE Connecticut is a nonprofit corporation committed to helping formerly incarcerated persons make a successful return to their families as responsible members, and to their communities as law-abiding, contributing citizens. Provide funding of $600,000 each year, up from $112,000 each year.
Provides $7 million from the FY 21 surplus for Community Investment to address initiatives focused on reducing violence and providing support for Connecticut’s cities. This includes an increase in Project Longevity funding of $250,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23, bringing their total funding to over $2.3 million for the biennium.

The Appropriations Committee budget proposal now forms the basis for legislative branch negotiations with Governor Lamont and his executive branch budget proposal that he unveiled in February. The 2021 legislative session is scheduled to end on Wednesday, June 9.

Senator Haskell Supports State Budget Focused on the Future

Posted on April 22, 2021 by Webmaster

Senator Haskell Supports State Budget Focused on the Future

Bolstering funding for early childhood, K-12 and higher education

HARTFORD – The Democratic co-chairs of the Appropriations Committee yesterday unveiled a proposed biennial state budget that invests in Connecticut students, all without exceeding the state spending cap or touching the $3.5 billion Rainy Day Fund.

State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) thanked the committee chairs for their dedication to improving the lives of young people, noting the full funding for debt-free college, an initiative he championed during his time as Senate Chair of the Higher Education & Employment Advancement Committee. The PACT, or Pledge To Advance Connecticut, will empower high school graduates in Connecticut to pursue a degree at a community college without going into debt. Tearing down the barrier of affordability has already helped thousands of students enroll in community college, ensuring that Connecticut businesses will have access to a highly-skilled, 21st century workforce.

Sen. Haskell further lauded the budget’s investment in early childhood education, K-12 schools and special education services. “I’m a broken record on this, but I truly believe that students are the best investment we can make, “said Sen. Haskell. “Budgets are about making investments, and this budget bets on young people. It ensures they have access to high-quality early childhood education, protects their right to a high quality public education, and tears down the barrier of affordability that prevents so many from pursuing a degree.”

Highlights include:

Keeps the 2017 bipartisan state budget promises related to municipal Education Cost Sharing (ECS) funding and maintains the current rollout of the ECS funding formula, providing an additional $108 million to cities and towns over the next two years. It also provides an additional $4.7 million in FY 22 and $9.4 million in FY 23 to school systems with higher numbers of low-income students and English Language Learner students.
Fully funds PACT, the debt-free community college program by providing $14 million in FY 22 and $15 million in FY 23 from the estimated FY 21 surplus.
Eliminates fees in the Birth to Three program and expands coverage to children who turn age three on or after May 1, until the start of the school year.
Promotes diversity in our schools by expanding the Open Choice Program in Fairfield County and providing $275,000 in FY 22 and $900,000 in FY 23.
Ensures that students with dyslexia receive appropriate services, providing four positions within the newly established Dyslexia Training Compliance office within the state Department of Education.

The Appropriations Committee budget proposal now forms the basis for legislative branch negotiations with the executive branch budget proposal that was unveiled in February. The 2021 legislative session is scheduled to end on Wednesday, June 9.

Senator Matt Lesser Applauds Key Finance, Appropriations Committee Approval of Major Health Care Reform Legislation

Posted on April 22, 2021 by Webmaster

Senator Matt Lesser Applauds Key Finance, Appropriations Committee Approval of Major Health Care Reform Legislation

Today, Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) applauded the Finance Committee for its bipartisan support and passage of Senate Bill 842, ‘An Act Concerning Health Insurance And Health Care In Connecticut.’ This major health care reform legislation will make health insurance more affordable for families, small businesses and non-profits. Senator Lesser also applauded Appropriations Committee, which voted to fund the bill in the 2022-2023 budget in a vote yesterday evening.

“Health care reform has cleared two major hurdles,” said Sen. Lesser. “I’m grateful to the members of the Appropriations and Finance Committees for their support. Connecticut is in the middle of a health care crisis. The time to act on lowering the cost of health insurance is now. Connecticut residents are demanding lower premiums, lower deductibles, and relief for small businesses. These votes give us clear momentum as we head into the home stretch of the legislative session.”

SB 842 will create a public option for small businesses and nonprofits, it will create a new fund to lower premiums, copays and deductibles on Access Health, Connecticut’s Health Care Exchange and it expands access to Medicaid. It also allows immigrants to purchase health insurance with their own money.

Recent polling has shown the proposal to be overwhelmingly popular with Connecticut residents. A Sacred Heart Poll released April 12 found that 66.8% of residents support the proposal.

Senator Anwar Sees Promise in State Budget Investing in Towns, Education, Nonprofits and Equity

Posted on April 21, 2021 by Webmaster

Senator Anwar Sees Promise in State Budget Investing in Towns, Education, Nonprofits and Equity

Listening to residents affected by the pandemic, responding to racial equity concerns; concerns with planned fund releases impacting constituents

State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) today said he saw promise in many aspects of the budget, such as expanded education funding, including full support for the PACT program supplying community college students with debt-free higher education, and significant efforts to invest in equity and support the entire state. However, he said, is less keen on aspects negatively impacting his district like reduced funding for South Windsor through the Education Cost Sharing formula.

“This state budget proposal is an effort to respond to a defining moment in history,” said Sen. Anwar. “COVID-19 has shown how critical our investment is in our communities, our safety net and the health care of our community. The current budget is focused on health care systems, education, workforce development, justice-related initiatives and doing that while staying within the statutory cap and protecting our Rainy Day Fund while continuing to improve bond ratings for our state.”

“This budget has come a long way from where we started with the Governor’s proposal, but legislators and the Democratic majority have put efforts into maximizing benefits that can be achieved within that spending cap, hoping to get feedback from the community and seeing how long-term investments can be strengthened further.”

“The budget moves us to a far better place, keeping a balance and much-needed investments in people’s well-being and protection, while making sure the state remains fiscally strong. This budget is going to help some of the most devastated communities and address our vital service programs. They will strengthen us. This budget reflects our values and required a team approach to maintain a balance. The bipartisan ECS formula from 2017 has not been fair to some of our towns and I wish, had I been serving at that time, I could have helped create a balance and not see some communities impacted negatively through that funding.”

South Windsor is expected to see a reduction of roughly $500,000 in education cost sharing funding over the two years of the budget.

Some budget features include:

Cities and towns:

Keeps the 2017 bipartisan state budget promises related to municipal Education Cost Sharing (ECS) funding and maintains the current rollout of the ECS funding formula, providing an additional $108 million to cities and towns over the next two years. It also provides an additional $4.7 million in FY 22 and $9.4 million in FY 23 to school systems with higher numbers of low-income students and English Language Learner students.
The Municipal Revenue Sharing Account was established by Public Act 15-244 as a diversion of one-half of 1 percent of sales tax revenue primarily for three municipal grants: 1) supplemental PILOT funding to towns with high levels of tax-exempt property, 2) reimbursement to municipalities that lose revenue as a result of the car tax cap, and 3) general revenue sharing grants to towns. MRSA has never been funded but, under current law, the $377 million diversion into the account is set to take effect in FY 22.
Fully funds Local Health District state grants with funding of $2.7 million in both FY 22 and FY 23, an increase of 75 cents per-person in the formulaic grant.

Education, from birth to college:

Provides $14 million in FY 22 and $15 million in FY 23 from the estimated FY 21 surplus for the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system to fully implement debt-free community college. Bills under consideration by the legislature would provide ongoing revenue from online lottery revenues for debt-free community college, with growing revenues expected from that source in the out years.
Provides funding of $2,078,000 in FY 22 and $1,969,100 in FY 23 to reflect the elimination of fees paid by parents or legal guardians of children receiving Birth to Three services and to expand coverage to children who turn age three on or after May 1, until the start of the school year.
Provides Danbury and Norwalk with $275,000 in FY 22 and $900,000 in FY 23 to establish an Open Choice pilot in Danbury and Norwalk.
Provides $3.7 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to increase the state per-pupil grant for Vocational Agriculture schools by $1,000.
Provides charter schools with $2,950,200 in FY 22 and $2,959,550 to increase the per-pupil charter school grant from $11,250 to $11,525. The budget also provides funding for grade growth within some charter schools. It also allocates $1,260,982 in additional support for charter schools with English Language Learners (ELL). This will start a phase-in of the weights relative to ELL and poverty levels that are considered in the ECS formula. This will provide parity between traditional public schools and public charter schools.
Provides $250,000 each year for the Farm-to-School Grant Program implementation which assists schools in procuring food from local farmers, nutrition/health education, school gardens and education about local food systems.
Provides four positions and corresponding funding of $480,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23 associated with funding the newly established Dyslexia Training Compliance office within the state Department of Education.
Provides $110,548 in FY 22 and $114,800 in FY 23 to support one engineer intern to enhance response to drinking water issues in schools undergoing construction projects, and one environmental analyst to assist the agency in its continued administration of safe drinking water standards for public drinking water.

Nonprofits:

Provides $50 million in direct support from the FY 21 surplus to the non-profit providers of health and human services that contract with state agencies. In addition, the budget provides an additional $30 million in FY 22 and FY 23 to these agencies.
Provides $10 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to reflect Medicaid rate increases to providers of home health (skilled and unskilled nursing) and waiver services providers. After considering the federal share, providers will receive approximately $20 million in the aggregate each year.
Maintains funding of $13,751,300 in FY 22 and $29,903,900 in FY 23 to support statutory rate increases for nursing homes ($11.1 million in FY 22 and $24.3 million in FY 23), intermediate care facilities ($700,000 in FY 22 and $1.5 million in FY 23), and boarding homes ($1,951,300 in FY 22 and $4,103,900 in FY 23). A portion of the increased funding for nursing homes (75%) must support staffing costs (excluding executive salaries).
Provides $1.6 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to support a minimum ICF rate of $501 per diem.

Justice and Equity

Provides $250,000 each year to establish the state Commission on Racial Equity in Public Health within the state Office of Legislative Management.
Provides cost-free communications for incarcerated persons.
Removes the John Mason statue from State Capitol grounds and relocates it to the Old State House with an appropriate historical context. In 1637, Mason led the attack and burning of a fortified Pequot village that killed more than 400 men, women and children and nearly wiped out the tribe.
Project Longevity is an initiative to reduce serious violence in Connecticut’s cities; the program uses a combination of community and social services and policing to influence group dynamics. Funding carried forward from FY 21 is provided to support an increase in Project Longevity funding of $250,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23.
To help comply with various aspects of “An Act Concerning Police Accountability,” the budget provides funding of $69,656 in FY 22 and $72,335 in FY 23 to hire one field program assistant to audit the police training school, training records, instructor certification, and certification requirements. Provides funding of $1,341,652 in FY 22 and $1,364,673 in FY 23 to establish an Office of the Inspector General within the Division of Criminal Justice.
Provides $15.4 million in FY 22 and $41.5 million in FY 23 to allow for an increase in staffing for inmate medical services.
The Conviction Integrity Unit will re-investigate the cases of convicted persons who claim to be wrongfully convicted and will seek review outside the traditional, court-based habeas process. Provide funding of $363,382 in FY 22 and $375,425 in FY 23. This includes funding for three positions (prosecutor, police inspector, and paralegal) and $50,000 for independent consultants to advise the unit on questions involving scientific testing, methodologies, and forensic evidence collection issues.
EMERGE Connecticut is a nonprofit corporation committed to helping formerly incarcerated persons make a successful return to their families as responsible members, and to their communities as law-abiding, contributing citizens. Provide funding of $600,000 each year, up from $112,000 each year.
Provides $7 million from the FY 21 surplus for Community Investment to address initiatives focused on reducing violence and providing support for Connecticut’s cities. This includes an increase in Project Longevity funding of $250,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23, bringing their total funding to over $2.3 million for the biennium.

Democrats Unveil State Budget that Invests in Towns, Education, Nonprofits and Equity

Posted on April 21, 2021 by Webmaster

Democrats Unveil State Budget that Invests in Towns, Education, Nonprofits and Equity

Listening to residents affected by the pandemic, responding to racial equity concerns

Some budget highlights include:

Cities and towns:

Keeps the 2017 bipartisan state budget promises related to municipal Education Cost Sharing (ECS) funding and maintains the current rollout of the ECS funding formula, providing an additional $108 million to cities and towns over the next two years. It also provides an additional $4.7 million in FY 22 and $9.4 million in FY 23 to school systems with higher numbers of low-income students and English Language Learner students.
The Municipal Revenue Sharing Account was established by Public Act 15-244 as a diversion of one-half of 1 percent of sales tax revenue primarily for three municipal grants: 1) supplemental PILOT funding to towns with high levels of tax-exempt property, 2) reimbursement to municipalities that lose revenue as a result of the car tax cap, and 3) general revenue sharing grants to towns. MRSA has never been funded but, under current law, the $377 million diversion into the account is set to take effect in FY 22.
Fully funds Local Health District state grants with funding of $2.7 million in both FY 22 and FY 23, an increase of 75 cents per-person in the formulaic grant.

Education, from birth to college:

Provides $14 million in FY 22 and $15 million in FY 23 from the estimated FY 21 surplus for the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system to fully implement debt-free community college. Bills under consideration by the legislature would provide ongoing revenue from online lottery revenues for debt-free community college, with growing revenues expected from that source in the out years.
Provides funding of $2,078,000 in FY 22 and $1,969,100 in FY 23 to reflect the elimination of fees paid by parents or legal guardians of children receiving Birth to Three services and to expand coverage to children who turn age three on or after May 1, until the start of the school year.
Provides Danbury and Norwalk with $275,000 in FY 22 and $900,000 in FY 23 to establish an Open Choice pilot in Danbury and Norwalk.
Provides $3.7 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to increase the state per-pupil grant for Vocational Agriculture schools by $1,000.
Provides charter schools with $2,950,200 in FY 22 and $2,959,550 to increase the per-pupil charter school grant from $11,250 to $11,525. The budget also provides funding for grade growth within some charter schools. It also allocates $1,260,982 in additional support for charter schools with English Language Learners (ELL). This will start a phase-in of the weights relative to ELL and poverty levels that are considered in the ECS formula. This will provide parity between traditional public schools and public charter schools.
Provides $250,000 each year for the Farm-to-School Grant Program implementation which assists schools in procuring food from local farmers, nutrition/health education, school gardens and education about local food systems.
Provides four positions and corresponding funding of $480,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23 associated with funding the newly established Dyslexia Training Compliance office within the state Department of Education.
Provides $110,548 in FY 22 and $114,800 in FY 23 to support one engineer intern to enhance response to drinking water issues in schools undergoing construction projects, and one environmental analyst to assist the agency in its continued administration of safe drinking water standards for public drinking water.

Nonprofits:

Provides $50 million in direct support from the FY 21 surplus to the non-profit providers of health and human services that contract with state agencies. In addition, the budget provides an additional $30 million in FY 22 and FY 23 to these agencies.
Provides $10 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to reflect Medicaid rate increases to providers of home health (skilled and unskilled nursing) and waiver services providers. After considering the federal share, providers will receive approximately $20 million in the aggregate each year.
Maintains funding of $13,751,300 in FY 22 and $29,903,900 in FY 23 to support statutory rate increases for nursing homes ($11.1 million in FY 22 and $24.3 million in FY 23), intermediate care facilities ($700,000 in FY 22 and $1.5 million in FY 23), and boarding homes ($1,951,300 in FY 22 and $4,103,900 in FY 23). A portion of the increased funding for nursing homes (75%) must support staffing costs (excluding executive salaries).
Provides $1.6 million in both FY 22 and FY 23 to support a minimum ICF rate of $501 per diem.

Justice and Equity

Provides $250,000 each year to establish the state Commission on Racial Equity in Public Health within the state Office of Legislative Management.
Provides cost-free communications for incarcerated persons.
Removes the John Mason statue from State Capitol grounds and relocates it to the Old State House with an appropriate historical context. In 1637, Mason led the attack and burning of a fortified Pequot village that killed more than 400 men, women and children and nearly wiped out the tribe.
Project Longevity is an initiative to reduce serious violence in Connecticut’s cities; the program uses a combination of community and social services and policing to influence group dynamics. Funding carried forward from FY 21 is provided to support an increase in Project Longevity funding of $250,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23.
To help comply with various aspects of “An Act Concerning Police Accountability,” the budget provides funding of $69,656 in FY 22 and $72,335 in FY 23 to hire one field program assistant to audit the police training school, training records, instructor certification, and certification requirements. Provides funding of $1,341,652 in FY 22 and $1,364,673 in FY 23 to establish an Office of the Inspector General within the Division of Criminal Justice.
Provides $15.4 million in FY 22 and $41.5 million in FY 23 to allow for an increase in staffing for inmate medical services.
The Conviction Integrity Unit will re-investigate the cases of convicted persons who claim to be wrongfully convicted and will seek review outside the traditional, court-based habeas process. Provide funding of $363,382 in FY 22 and $375,425 in FY 23. This includes funding for three positions (prosecutor, police inspector, and paralegal) and $50,000 for independent consultants to advise the unit on questions involving scientific testing, methodologies, and forensic evidence collection issues.
EMERGE Connecticut is a nonprofit corporation committed to helping formerly incarcerated persons make a successful return to their families as responsible members, and to their communities as law-abiding, contributing citizens. Provide funding of $600,000 each year, up from $112,000 each year.
Provides $7 million from the FY 21 surplus for Community Investment to address initiatives focused on reducing violence and providing support for Connecticut’s cities. This includes an increase in Project Longevity funding of $250,000 in both FY 22 and FY 23, bringing their total funding to over $2.3 million for the biennium.

The Appropriations Committee budget now forms the basis for legislative branch negotiations with Governor Lamont and his executive branch budget proposal that he unveiled in February. The 2021 legislative session is scheduled to end on Wednesday, June 9.

Senator Anwar Celebrates Beginning Work at Site of Future Costco in South Windsor

Posted on April 19, 2021 by Webmaster

Senator Anwar Celebrates Beginning Work at Site of Future Costco in South Windsor

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) joined South Windsor leaders to celebrate the start of work at the site in that town where a new Costco is now under construction. Discussed for several years and recently receiving approval from South Windsor’s Planning and Zoning Department, the Costco will see numerous new jobs brought to South Windsor through construction and, upon its completion, retail opportunities. Costco is already widely known for its policies of strong salaries for workers, with its starting pay at many stores at $16, well above the minimum wage.

“I’m very excited that the hard work needed to bring Costco to South Windsor, started a few years ago, has continued and I thank Mayor Andrew Paterna, Deputy Mayor Liz Pendelton and the entire South Windsor family including the Town Council, the Planning and Zoning Department, Inland and Wetlands and town employees for starting this work and making Costco part of our town,” said Sen. Anwar.

“I’m happy to welcome Costco and their warehouse store to South Windsor,” said Mayor Andrew Paterna. “It’s been a long project a long time coming, but a lot of people put in a lot of hours to make sure this project could happen in South Windsor. Welcome to Costco and thank you to all who worked on this project.”

Discussed for years, South Windsor has worked to bring Costco to its town, with the warehouse store building its new location in the Evergreen Walk complex. The store will include a gas station and company representatives said they have a goal to open it by the end of the year, bringing hundreds of jobs to the area.

Senator Moore Supportive as State Bond Agenda Commits Funds Klein Memorial Auditorium, Bridgeport Courthouse Roof

Posted on April 16, 2021 by Webmaster

Senator Moore Supportive as State Bond Agenda Commits Funds Klein Memorial Auditorium, Bridgeport Courthouse Roof

Today, State Senator Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) was supportive as the State Bond Committee approved the allocation of more than $4.3 million in funding to two important projects in Bridgeport. Under the funding, the Klein Memorial Auditorium will receive funds to support the installation of an elevator, technology improvements and code-required improvements, while the Bridgeport Superior Courthouse will see its existing roof and associated components replaced.

“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their release of this important funding,” said Sen. Moore. “The Klein Memorial Auditorium has a long, storied history of being a local landmark with vital community history, and with these technology and code-required upgrades, as well as the installment of an elevator, it will continue to make memories for thousands each year. Additionally, the Bridgeport Superior Courthouse’s roof is crumbling; we must invest in replacing its roof to ensure the important everyday proceedings taking place there can continue without interruption.”

According to the State Bond Commission’s agenda for its April 16 meeting, the Klein Memorial Auditorium Foundation, Inc., will receive $300,000 for the installation of an elevator as well as technology and code-required improvements.

Additionally, the Bridgeport Superior Courthouse will receive $4,054,750 for the replacing of its roof system and associated components, including masonry work to replace crumbling brick parapets and abatement of existing asbestos fireproofing under the roof decking. The existing roof is crumbling, officials said, and has exceeded its useful life.

New Haven Lawmakers Applaud Release of $5M for Harbor Dredging

Posted on April 16, 2021 by Webmaster

New Haven Lawmakers Applaud Release of $5M for Harbor Dredging

Funds Earmarked for Dredging & Widening of New Haven Harbor Channel

State Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven/Hamden/North Haven) and State Representative Al Paolillo (D-New Haven) is pleased that the State Bond Commission today approved $5 million to complete a study and design to deepen the navigation channel in New Haven Harbor.

“This is great news for the City of New Haven, the harbor, and the State of Connecticut,” said Rep. Paolillo. “New Haven Harbor is an asset and economic engine for the entire region that supports the freight and maritime industries, economic development and jobs creation. I want to thank the Governor, Bond Commission members and all those who recognize the importance of dredging the harbor to maintain its regional impact.”

Plans for the funding include deepening the main federal shipping channel by five feet and widening the waterway basin to allow for larger, deep-draft vessels to maneuver the port for access to the harbor’s terminals.

When the project’s design is complete, the Army Corps of Engineers expects to begin dredging in October 2023.

“Too often the economic significance of our harbors is not sufficiently prioritized,” said Sen. Looney. “This state bonding will go a long way to ensure that New Haven Harbor remains a hub for economic activity on the eastern seaboard for years to come. Many thanks to Governor Lamont for approving this funding leading to the deepening of New Haven Harbor’s navigational channel, ultimately allowing larger ships to comfortably use the harbor.”

New Haven Harbor is a key location for petroleum products for Connecticut and New England. It is the second largest port in New England, behind Boston Harbor. Upgrades to New Haven Harbor will increase the navigation efficiency and safety of the harbor.

The completed project will be a boost to terminal operators, local businesses, as well as a larger workforce to meet the increase in commerce. It will reduce the number of trucks on our highways while creating an oyster-friendly habitat near the east breakwater, a rock reef habitat north of the west breakwater and a 58-acre salt marsh at Sandy Point in West Haven.

Senator Needleman Pleased by State Funding Dedicated to Small Harbor Improvement Projects in Chester, Clinton

Posted on April 16, 2021 by Webmaster

Senator Needleman Pleased by State Funding Dedicated to Small Harbor Improvement Projects in Chester, Clinton

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) was pleased by the State Bond Commission’s allocation of $140,000 in funding for two grants-in-aid under the Small Harbor Improvement Projects Program in Chester and Clinton. Those projects, respectively a creek dredging and an update of a key harbor management plan, will assist the municipalities in improving the infrastructure and management of local waterways.

“I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their foresight in funding these projects,” said Sen. Needleman. “Our state’s natural beauty and recreation opportunities are rarely easier seen than in our local creeks, streams, rivers and waterways. This funding will ensure Chester Creek continues to be an important focal point for local ecology and ensure leadership and guidance for use of Clinton’s waterways and marine resources remain up to date and effective.”

The Bond Commission funded these two projects:

Chester received $100,000 for the dredging of Chester Creek, a local creek and freshwater marsh that is vital for migrating waterfowl and several species of fish
Clinton received $40,000 to update its harbor management plan and study its harbor, which contain natural resources including wetlands, beaches and open water. Updating its plan will lead to safe, equitable and efficient use of the waters for years to come.

Senator McCrory Joins Comcast and Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford to Announce Launch of Wifi-Connected “Lift Zones” in Hartford and Across Connecticut

Posted on April 16, 2021November 4, 2023 by Webmaster

Senator McCrory Joins Comcast and Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford to Announce Launch of Wifi-Connected “Lift Zones” in Hartford and Across Connecticut

Digital Connectivity Forum held to Bridge Digital Connectivity Gap for Hartford Residents

As part of its ongoing commitment to help connect low-income families to the internet so they can fully participate in educational opportunities and the digital economy, Comcast today announced plans to equip 25 different Connecticut locations – 13 of which are now open with plans for 12 additional sites. State Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford) and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford participated in the announcement during a virtual forum with Hartford residents.

Working with its network of nonprofit partners, Comcast “Lift Zones” feature free WiFi, which allows students to work on laptops simultaneously so they can successfully participate in distance learning. This initiative provides free connectivity inside partner community centers, like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, for the next three years.

The announcement of the Lift Zones was part of a Digital Connectivity Forum on April 15, 2021, which Comcast partnered with Sen. McCrory and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford to host, that examined broadband adoption in the city of Hartford. Residents attending the event learned how they can access the internet by taking advantage of social outreach programs and community-based partnerships, in addition to learning more about Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, a low-cost broadband adoption program that provides Internet for $9.95/month.

Sen. McCrory helped to lead the Digital Connectivity Forum in effort to help even more Hartford residents access the Internet, which has become especially vital during this ongoing pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of a family having high-speed Internet service to complete daily tasks and activities. Even more, the tools that will help a student finish a science project or a parent who is searching for a new job should not be out of reach due to unaffordability,” said Sen. McCrory. “Affordable, reliable Internet service is key to meeting the needs of all members of a household. I appreciate the opportunity to co-host a space for families to learn about Internet Essentials, an available low-cost program provided by Comcast, and to join in the launch announcement of community spaces where students can connect to the Internet in a safe, learning environment.”

“The Boys & Girls Club of Hartford is pleased to welcome Comcast’s Lift Zones to our Asylum Hill location as part of our collective effort to ensure that families, regardless of income, are connected to the digital world,” said Samuel Gray, President & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford.

Lift Zone sites complement Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, which has helped connect a cumulative total of more than 10 million low-income people to the Internet at home since 2011, including 176,000 individuals in the state of Connecticut.

“We are proud to partner with community organizations across Connecticut and equip them with fast WiFi service to provide kids with safe and reliable connectivity to learn, keep up with school and expand their educational opportunities,” said Dennis Mathew, Senior Vice President of Comcast’s Western New England Region. “We believe that these Lift Zones will provide another choice and make it convenient for folks to connect at a trusted local nonprofit location.”

The 13 Comcast Lift Zone sites that are now open in Connecticut include:

Center for Latino Progress – Hartford
Asylum Hill Boys & Girls Club – Hartford
Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford
Leadership, Education and Athletics in Partnership (LEAP) – New Haven
Youth Continuum – 3 locations in New Haven
New Haven Boys & Girls Club
Music Haven – New Haven
Boys & Girls Club of Bristol
Opportunities Industrialization Center of New Britain
Girls Inc. of Western Connecticut – Waterbury
Town of Falls Village Social Services Office

Twelve additional Comcast Lift Zone sites in Connecticut are currently being installed with plans to open by late spring.