Sen. Osten Welcomes The Debut of Online Sports Betting and iCasino in Connecticut
Following last week’s ‘soft launch’ of online sports betting in Connecticut, State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) today welcomed the official launch of online sports betting in the state, with FanDuel, DraftKings, and Rush Street Interactive establishing customer accounts for adults age 21 and older beginning at 6 a.m. today.
The Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot tribes are also offering iCasino, where adults can place bets online on casino games such as poker, roulette, and slots.
“For years I fought for two of the largest employers in Connecticut to be able to modernize their operations and to compete with other states on an equal footing when it came to sports betting and online gaming. Today, that day is finally a reality. The result is that we will see more employment, more new customers, and more revenue for the State of Connecticut while supporting two of our largest private-sector businesses. The past few years have been a good reminder that while we often focus on the manufacturing and defense and biotechnology industries in Connecticut, entertainment and tourism are also a huge draw, and we need to honor and support those industries too.”
Sen. Cohen Welcomes Biden Administration Fight Against PFAS Chemicals Across America
Sen. Cohen Welcomes Biden Administration Fight Against PFAS Chemicals Across America
State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), who is Senate Chair of the legislature’s Environment Committee, issued the following statement today regarding today’s announcement by the Biden Administration and the federal Environmental Protection Agency about their plan to combat per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) through increased investments in research, restricting PFAS chemicals from being released into the environment, and accelerating the cleanup of PFAS contamination:
“This year, I was proud to lead the passage of Public Act 21-921, which bans the use of firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and prohibits the manufacture and distribution of food packaging containing these ‘forever chemicals’ beginning in 2024.
“Together with the Environment Committee members and my colleagues on the Public Health Committee, we worked hard to ensure that the largest source of water and soil PFAS contamination was addressed by establishing a take-back program for the firefighting foam, ensuring a suitable alternative was established, and preventing any future purchase and use.
“Not only does this protect those who protect us each day, the firefighters, but it eliminates the possibility of spills and therefore helps to keep our water free from these carcinogenic substances. Connecticut has really taken the lead on this in both the legislature and through our toxics division of the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection.
“We have a long way to go, and we are unfortunately discovering well contamination in many places, including right in my senate district. However, the steps outlined by President Biden, as well as those by Connecticut’s legislature, will help raise awareness and hopefully prevent the future manufacture of products containing harmful chemicals.”
Senator Marilyn Moore Named One of 100 Most Influential Blacks in Connecticut
Senator Marilyn Moore Named One of 100 Most Influential Blacks in Connecticut
State Senator Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) was named one of the NAACP’s top 100 Most Influential Blacks in the state. The CT Conference of NAACP Branches will be awarding 100 Black people in Connecticut who are on their list as influencers, community leaders, and industry trailblazers later in the month.
“It is a true honor to be recognized by the NAACP as an influential Black person in our state,” said Sen. Moore. “I stand where I am today because of the blood and sweat spilled by the generation before me to advance the rights and welfare of Black Americans. Every day I strive to live up to that legacy and inspire the next generation.”
Senator Moore won this award for the first time in 2018. As a lifelong Bridgeport resident and community activist, she is being honored for her dedication and passion as she strives to uphold accountability and equality for everyone in the Bridgeport community and around the state. Sen. Moore has been a force in advocating for health equity, living wage, and legislation that supports and protects Connecticut communities.
This year in particular, Senator Moore committed to assessing all legislation within the General Assembly through a racial equity lens. She fought to ensure each piece of major legislation not only had no negative racial implications but also actively advanced equity in our state.
Senator Moore also worked to raise awareness on the health disparities raised by the coronavirus pandemic in relation to Black and brown people. She dedicated herself to provide a more fair and equitable future for Black and brown families in Connecticut.
The CT Conference of NAACP Branches will recognize the 100 Most Influential Blacks in the state on October 23rd at 6:00 p.m. The event will be held at Foxwoods Resort Casino, 350 Trolley Line Blvd. in Mashantucket.
Senator Anwar Joins Senator Blumenthal, Connecticut’s Child Advocate to Decry Facebook’s Knowing Harm to Children
Senator Anwar Joins Senator Blumenthal, Connecticut’s Child Advocate to Decry Facebook’s Knowing Harm to Children
Amid a growing fallout nationwide over recent reports, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal and Connecticut Child Advocate Sarah Eagan at the State Capitol this week to decry Facebook’s activities and seek solutions, including increased oversight of the company and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s testimony in front of Congress. In recent weeks, information including a whistleblower’s report has come to light showing that Facebook employees internally were aware that its social media platforms damaged children’s mental health and did not take action.
“Mark Zuckerberg has hacked into the minds of our children, and the results are not good,” said Sen. Anwar. “What we are seeing is an epidemic-level impact on children where behavioral issues, challenges they face with anxiety, eating disorders and perception of themselves are deeply impacted. Our state has been blessed when Senator Blumenthal, as Attorney General, went after tobacco companies that put children at risk for profits. And here we are again with another mega-company putting profits before children. We must stand together and say our children will come before anyone’s profit. Right now, one out of every three teenage girls have had challenges with body perception, and Facebook and Instagram are causing deep impacts. This information has been known and no action has been taken. As co-chair of the Children’s Committee, I will work with my colleagues and with Advocate Eagan to develop a plan of action so we can have a preventative strategy.”
“I have been hearing from parents and caregivers all around the state of Connecticut who are absolutely stunned about what they’ve learned – that Facebook has long known and concealed – that it was preying on children with destructive content pushed toward kids,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Content that dragged kids to dark places and heightened their anxiety by promoting negative self images, conveying online bullying, eating disorders and potentially leading to suicide. This negative content caused young people and teenagers to think less of themselves and develop negative self-images. Facebook and Instagram not only knew of these negative and destructive effects but concealed and exploited them to make more money, using algorithms to drive destructive content toward kids. The parents of Connecticut are not only outraged but demanding action, and that’s what I will seek. We have a clear blueprint for action to ensure these algorithms are made public, privacy is restored, parents are given the tools to protect their children and there is more oversight over content. We will ask Mark Zuckerberg to speak to Congress so America can hear him and he can try to explain why Facebook is seeking more profits by driving harmful content to kids. Whether he comes or not, we will seek more transparency from Facebook, more privacy and more tools for parents.”
“Our children need help, and so do their parents,” said Advocate Eagan. “Social media, Facebook and Instagram are holes our children fall into – they have no refuge anymore, no safety. They can never untether themselves from constant bombardment on social media. Technology is not all bad, and social media can help with connectiveness. No one is advocating for children to live in a bubble. But Facebook and Instagram are consumer products marketed to children that make money off children who use them and they need to be responsible corporate citizens who take seriously the impact of their product on mental health, family dynamics and the health and well-being of their consumers.”
Among other reports continuing to circulate about Facebook’s activity are internal documents released by a former employee. Those documents revealed the company is aware of significant problems with its services – including knowledge that Instagram has a negative impact on teenagers’ mental health – that it has not resolved, leading to accusations of putting profit over the health of users.
Senator Needleman Encouraged as Small Cities Grants to Be Awarded to Essex, Westbrook Housing Projects
Senator Needleman Encouraged as Small Cities Grants to Be Awarded to Essex, Westbrook Housing Projects
Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) celebrated the announcement by Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno this week that $9 million in small cities grants will be awarded to six municipalities to modernize and rehabilitate low- and moderate-income individuals, including $1.5 million in funding each for public housing modernization projects in Essex and Westbrook for the Essex Court and Worthington Manor complexes.
“The Small Cities Grant program, administered through the Community Development Block Grant program, is incredibly beneficial to towns across Connecticut, providing important funding for projects including enhancements to public housing,” said Sen. Needleman. “The $3 million in total funding for the Essex Court complex in Essex and the Worthington Manor complex in Westbrook will improve the lives of and resources available to residents of those facilities, also adding to their resiliency and extending the buildings’ usable lifespans significantly.”
Both Essex Court and Worthington Manor received $1.5 million in funding. Essex Court will engage in Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility for the community room and laundry room, as well as full accessibility for several units on the campus. Further repairs include roof replacements, installation of heat pumps and water heaters, storm doors with ADA hardware and LED lighting. A roofed patio will also be installed to allow for gatherings, and a full campus backup generator will be installed in case of emergency.
Worthington Manor will receive significant updates to the building envelope of the two-story complex, also replacing roofing, gutters, siding and windows in all units. Automatic door openers, vinyl plank flooring and HVAC systems will be either installed or upgraded, while tactile warning strips will be installed at transition points from sidewalks to the driveway and parking area to assist the visually impaired.
Senator Haskell Nominated to Join Governor’s Workforce Council
Senator Haskell Nominated to Join Governor’s Workforce Council
Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) announced his recent appointment to the Governor’s Workforce Council, which sets policy to grow Connecticut’s workforce pipeline and coordinates opportunities between employers, educators, state agencies and local non-profits. Sen. Haskell was appointed by Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven).
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve our state, and I want to thank Senator Looney for this honor,” said Sen. Haskell. “Whether it’s a construction company, a hedge fund, an advanced manufacturing shop or a car mechanic, employers in Connecticut are saying the same thing — they struggle to find tech-savvy, highly-skilled workers to fill job openings. In order to help businesses grow in Connecticut, the public and private sector will need to work together and solve this problem. I’m looking forward to supporting policies that move Connecticut beyond the traditional K-12 approach to education and embrace the K-14 mindset that the 21st century requires. It’s time to recognize that the dollars spent on expanding skills training, stemming the brain drain and making higher education affordable for all are investments in our future. There’s so much work that lies ahead, and I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves alongside this esteemed group.”
The priorities of the Governor’s Workforce Council include creating a system where businesses set the state’s workforce agenda through robust partnerships with educators; partnering with educational institutions to ensure education is accessible, equitable and aligned with in-demand careers in Connecticut; developing support services increasing participation in the workforce through increased access to resources like childcare and transportation; and building workforce and education data systems informing students and job seekers about programs helping them enter or progress in the workforce.
Senators Duff And Maroney Call On Zuckerberg, Facebook To Release Information Regarding Personal Data Collected From Connecticut Residents
Senators Duff And Maroney Call On Zuckerberg, Facebook To Release Information Regarding Personal Data Collected From Connecticut Residents
This week, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) called for answers regarding the personal data of Connecticut residents being collected through Facebook’s various internet platforms. On Friday, October 8, Senator Duff and Senator Maroney wrote a letter to Mark Zuckerberg, Chief Executive Officer of Facebook, and Will Castleberry, the Vice President of State Policy and Community Engagement, requesting information on data purchases on Connecticut residents, what type of data, if the data is sold, and how the data is used.
This request follows the testimony given by Ms. Frances Haugen before the United States Senate. Her testimony raised concern for both Senator Duff and Senator Maroney with how personal data is collected and used by Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
Earlier this year, Senator Duff and Senator Maroney introduced legislation regarding data privacy and consumer privacy protections. Senate Bill 893, “An Act Concerning Consumer Privacy,” would have created a consumer data bill of rights and required big-tech companies to clearly state what data is being collected, how it’s being used, and why – and consumers would have the right to see that data, fix any errors in it, or delete it all. The bill received favorable votes in three committees, but was never voted on by the legislature. Both Senators plan to re-introduce this legislation again next session to address the issue of protecting personal data of residents in Connecticut.
The letter Senator Duff and Senator Maroney sent to Facebook is attached here.
Senators Duff And Maroney Call On Zuckerberg, Facebook To Release Information Regarding Personal Data Collected From Connecticut Residents
Senators Duff And Maroney Call On Zuckerberg, Facebook To Release Information Regarding Personal Data Collected From Connecticut Residents
This week, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) called for answers regarding the personal data of Connecticut residents being collected through Facebook’s various internet platforms. On Friday, October 8, Senator Duff and Senator Maroney wrote a letter to Mark Zuckerberg, Chief Executive Officer of Facebook, and Will Castleberry, the Vice President of State Policy and Community Engagement, requesting information on data purchases on Connecticut residents, what type of data, if the data is sold, and how the data is used.
This request follows the testimony given by Ms. Frances Haugen before the United States Senate. Her testimony raised concern for both Senator Duff and Senator Maroney with how personal data is collected and used by Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
Earlier this year, Senator Duff and Senator Maroney introduced legislation regarding data privacy and consumer privacy protections. Senate Bill 893, “An Act Concerning Consumer Privacy,” would have created a consumer data bill of rights and required big-tech companies to clearly state what data is being collected, how it’s being used, and why – and consumers would have the right to see that data, fix any errors in it, or delete it all. The bill received favorable votes in three committees, but was never voted on by the legislature. Both Senators plan to re-introduce this legislation again next session to address the issue of protecting personal data of residents in Connecticut.
The letter Senator Duff and Senator Maroney sent to Facebook is attached here.
Sen. Osten Appointed to Capitol Preservation and Restoration Commission, Nuclear Energy Advisory Council
Sen. Osten Appointed to Capitol Preservation and Restoration Commission, Nuclear Energy Advisory Council
HARTFORD – State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) has just been appointed as a new member of two state councils whose policy focus match the interests and needs of her and her constituents: the State Capitol Preservation and Restoration Commission, and the Nuclear Energy Advisory Council.
The appointments were made Friday, October 8 by Senate President Martin M. Looney.
The State Capitol Preservation and Restoration Commission was created in 1973. The mission of the 12-member commission is to continually review and study the State Capitol building and grounds with an eye on preservation and restoration, including any necessary structural changes, enhancing the interior and exterior of the building, making better use of existing space, and reducing public safety hazards.
The Nuclear Energy Advisory Council was created in 1996. The 14-member council focuses on the safety and operations of nuclear power plants in Connecticut, helps ensure the public health and safety, and tracks any problems arising from plant operations.
“I have been fighting for some time to have the John Mason statue removed from the exterior of the State Capitol and have it redisplayed elsewhere, with the proper historical context, and not in some place of honor atop Connecticut’s seat of government,” Sen. Osten said. “I think a seat on the State Capitol Preservation and Restoration Commission will give me the ability to better make these arguments and to help modernize our sometimes romanticized version of history, which often ignores the impact that some of our state ancestors had on other of our state ancestors. We have to go into these discussions with our eyes and our hearts and our minds wide open.”
“The Nuclear Energy Advisory Council is also important to me because Connecticut’s only nuclear power plant, Millstone, is located in southeastern Connecticut and is a major employer in the region. Millstone also generates 50 percent of the power we use in Connecticut. Keeping Millstone operating safely and efficiently and ensuring state policies assist Millstone in its power generation and job creation are at the top of my list on this council.”
Senator Anwar Joins Vigil in Honor of Jessica Edwards with Domestic Violence Prevention Advocates
Senator Anwar Joins Vigil in Honor of Jessica Edwards with Domestic Violence Prevention Advocates
SOUTH WINDSOR – Today, at Nevers Park, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) joined the friends and family of Jessica Edwards, a 30-year-old South Windsor mother killed earlier this year in an incident of domestic violence, for a vigil in her honor, including the dedication of a bench at the park’s boundless playground. Sen. Anwar was also joined by domestic violence advocacy groups, including Interval House and The Network of Enfield. As October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the event stood as a stark reminder of the tragic losses all too commonly caused by domestic violence and the importance of fighting and preventing domestic violence.
“I wish with all my heart that Jessica Edwards could stand with us today,” said Sen. Anwar. “Her loss, and memory, reminds us of the worst impacts of domestic violence – fractured families and children losing parents far before their time. Unfortunately, she is not alone. Millions of Americans and tens of thousands of Connecticut residents must face domestic violence every year, all too often with tragic consequences. In Jessica’s honor, a bench at Nevers Park’s boundless playground will provide rest and relief to the parents and children of South Windsor for decades to come. In her honor, we must also resolve to do more to fight the scourge of domestic violence.”
In May 2021, Jessica Edwards was killed in an incident of domestic violence. Her husband has been charged with first-degree manslaughter; police said he confessed to killing his wife, according to media reports.
Approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime, according to the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and nearly half of all female homicide victims are killed by current or former intimate partners.
October, recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, is dedicated to raising awareness of the pervasive issue of domestic violence and empowering individuals to break its horrific cycle by learning how to identify and stop it. In doing so, our communities can support and protect those at risk.