Sen. Anwar Welcomes New State Laws Taking Effect This Saturday, October 1
State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) announced today that 80 new state laws will take effect this Saturday, October 1, including enhanced suicide prevention measures, the creation of a new state holiday, stricter outdoor dog sheltering regulations, new juvenile crime laws, and safer online dating.
The laws are either new laws passed in the recently concluded 2022 legislative session or are sections of new laws passed in 2021 or 2022. Regardless, they all take effect this Saturday, October 1, 2022.
“The hard work and long hours worked by the Legislature each year result in new laws intended to improve and benefit life in Connecticut,” said Sen. Anwar. “I’m proud that our state will begin to officially celebrate Juneteenth in 2023. I’m also happy to see laws strengthening juvenile justice and motor vehicle theft procedures, improvements to notifying next-of-kin and other changes benefitting residents will go into effect this weekend.”
Among the 80 news laws taking effect this Saturday are:
- Senate Bill 350, which creates the new legal Connecticut state holiday of “Juneteenth Independence Day” on June 19 of every year to commemorate the final emancipation of all American slaves. President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, thereby freeing the slaves, but news of that decree was not delivered to the remote Confederate state of Texas until more than two years late by a Union general on June 19, 1865. President Biden recognized Juneteenth as a national federal holiday last year.
- Senate Bill 116 requires pesticide companies to provide direct notice to individual homeowners living on lakes or ponds – instead of simply publishing notice in a local newspaper with general circulation in the area – of their intention to apply pesticides to the lake or pond on a particular day at a particular time.
- Senate Bill 334 makes commercial driver’s license (CDL) exams available to inmates who are within six months of their release date.
- House Bill 5349 requires police departments to notify a deceased person’s next of kin within 24 hours after identifying that deceased person. The new law stems from two incidents in 2021 when police failed to notify two different families of the death of their family member.
- House Bill 5170 requires adequate (which is defined) shelter for a dog if it is left outside for more than 15 minutes in extreme heat or cold, and requires dogs that are tethered to a stationary object to be provided with regular water.
- Sections of Senate Bill 4 seek to expand the electrification of the state’s motor vehicle fleet, allow condominium owners to install EV charging stations at their condos, and provide financial incentives for private-sector investments in battery-powered medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
- Sections of Senate Bill 5 require online dating services operating in Connecticut to give their users a safety awareness notification as to whether they do or do not conduct criminal background checks on their members.
- Sections of Senate Bill 972 provide free communications services to inmates and child detainees in juvenile detention facilities – including phone calls, video and email – as a means of hastening their rehabilitation. Connecticut had a history of charging inmates $4.87 for a 15-minute phone call, the second-highest rate in the country after Arkansas.
- Sections of House Bill 5417 make far-reaching changes to procedures for juveniles who are arrested in Connecticut, generally requiring an arrested child to be brought before a judge within five business days after the arrest and allowing courts to order electronic monitoring if a child is charged with a second or subsequent motor vehicle or property theft offense. The bill also establishes a new penalty structure for larceny of a motor vehicle, with graduated penalties based on whether it is a first or subsequent offense, rather than based on the vehicle’s value (as under current law). The bill also creates a new felony penalty structure and higher fines for larceny of a motor vehicle.
- Sections of House Bill 5373 now require police chiefs to notify POST (the Connecticut Police Officer Standards and Training Council) anytime an officer has used unreasonable, excessive or illegal force which resulted in someone’s serious physical injury or death; intentionally harassed and threatened someone based on their class; or was terminated, resigned or retired due to previous malfeasance.
- Sections of House Bill 5001 establish a 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline, and require that phone number to be printed on all Connecticut public college and university student ID cards.
- Sections of House Bill 6548 adjust the methods by which people are summoned for jury duty in order to ensure better gender and demographic diversity in jury pools.
Senator Cabrera Encouraged As State Police Report Crime Dropped In 2021, With Violent Crime Down 9%
Senator Cabrera Encouraged As State Police Report Crime Dropped In 2021, With Violent Crime Down 9%
Huge declines in violent crime, car theft, assault, burglary in 2021, police say
HARTFORD – Today, state Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) highlighted a new Connecticut State Police report on crime, which paints a picture of an incredibly safe State of Connecticut, police statistics show.
The 2021 “Crime in Connecticut” report published today shows that from 2021 compared to 2020, overall crime in Connecticut decreased by 2.76% to its second-lowest level in at least a decade.
Violent crime in Connecticut decreased by 9% to its lowest level in at least a decade, and motor vehicle thefts declined by 10.5%, with nearly 1,000 fewer motor vehicles stolen in 2021 compared to 2020.
- Arsons declined 28.9% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Burglaries were down 18.6% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Assaults declined 16.77% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Robberies were down 5.9% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Property crimes declined 2% to their second-lowest level in at least a decade.
Following a national trend, Connecticut’s murder and manslaughter rate did increase by 2.17% last year, with three more people murdered in the state in 2021 compared to 2020. Connecticut’s murder rate is still about 37% below the national average, however. The number of rapes also increased compared to 2020 but still remained at the decade-long average for Connecticut.
There were 9,038 sworn police personnel in Connecticut in 2021, or 2.51 officers for every 1,000 residents. No Connecticut police officer was killed in any felonious assault in 2021.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home, neighborhood and community,” said Sen. Cabrera. “There always remains work to do however, and this State Police report provides us with a clear picture of what is working in Connecticut and spaces where we can be even better moving forward to ensure that crime in our state remains low.”
Sen. Cabrera was among many legislators who in recent years have voted in support of bills strengthening juvenile crime laws and cracking down on car thefts as well as catalytic converters in efforts to reduce crime rates in Connecticut.
The 2021 version of “Crime in Connecticut” is the 44th in a series of annual state police reports dating back to 1978. “Crime in Connecticut” continues to be Connecticut’s most comprehensive compilation of crime data, providing detailed statistics on criminal offenses and arrests statewide. The publication’s source data are based upon monthly reporting of crime activity to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program at the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. Crime in Connecticut provides police departments, administrators, legislators, advocacy groups, and the general public with important information for planning purposes.
The full state police “Crime in Connecticut” report can be found here
Sen. Cabrera Highlights $750,000 Awarded by the Community Investment Fund for Newhall Neighborhood Project in Hamden
Sen. Cabrera Highlights $750,000 Awarded by the Community Investment Fund for Newhall Neighborhood Project in Hamden
Today, state Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) highlighted $750,000 total awarded to Hamden for draining improvements in the city to alleviate chronic flooding in the Newhall neighborhood by the Community Investment Fund (CIF). The CIF board met today to approve the funding. Sen. Cabrera said he is elated these funding requests were approved.
“This funding is critically important to the people who have dealt with this flooding for far too long,” said Sen. Cabrera. “I am grateful to the CIF board for approving this project. Residents in the Newhall neighborhood will be provided with the peace of mind that their homes won’t be plagued by frequent flooding.”
The project consists of repairing and upgrading stormwater infrastructure through pipe, manhole and catch basin replacement. There will also be an addition of rain gardens and tree canopies.
Sen. Daugherty Abrams Highlights $3 Million in Funding Approved for Housing Project in Meriden
Sen. Daugherty Abrams Highlights $3 Million in Funding Approved for Housing Project in Meriden
Today, state Senator Mary Daugherty Abrams (D- Meriden, Middlefield, Rockfall, Middletown, Cheshire), highlighted $3 million awarded to Meriden for the development of a housing complex at 85 Tremont/Locust Street by the state’s Community Investment Fund (CIF). The CIF board met today to approve the funding. Sen. Daugherty Abrams said she is thrilled to see these funds allocated that will benefit many in Meriden.
“I am so glad this project was approved by the CIF board and share my gratitude,” said Sen. Daugherty Abrams. “The housing and apartment market can be discouraging for those hoping to find a place to live, making it imperative that we not only create spaces for residents, but also provide housing people can afford. This project accomplishes both and these CIF funds will help to ensure residents can find a place to stay.”
The funding will go towards development of the 85 Tremont Street to create 82 units of housing with 11 of the units will be designated as supportive housing units through Housing and Urban Development 811 program, according to the project summary. The current site is a 123,0000 square foot, five-story historic mill complex sitting on 2.2 acres. Additional parcels included by the city will be improved into active recreation area with basketball court, playground and fixed seating.
Senators Needleman, Osten Supportive As Congressman Courtney, Federal Leaders Fight To Bolster Funding For Heating Aid
Senators Needleman, Osten Supportive As Congressman Courtney, Federal Leaders Fight To Bolster Funding For Heating Aid
Noting the importance of the financial support for their constituents, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Norwich) today supported efforts by Congressional Democrats, including U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney, to bolster the funding put in place for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program in budgetary legislation currently under consideration by federal leaders.
In the act under consideration, which would temporarily fund the federal government through the end of the year, leaders have bolstered LIHEAP funding by $1 billion, higher than the $500 million proposed by the White House. LIHEAP funding aids the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program which provides direct assistance to homeowners to reduce heating and home energy use.
“In recent weeks, as legislators have considered LIHEAP funding in Connecticut – incredibly important and valuable for thousands of homeowners amid expected high heating costs this upcoming winter – we expressed the importance of waiting until we had all the facts,” said Sen. Needleman. “This program can be amended, and if this federal legislation passes, will be amended, to provide a significant increase in support for Connecticut residents and families in need. I’m grateful to Congressman Courtney and our federal representatives for recognizing this need and taking action to support so many in our state and beyond.”
“I’ve been in contact with Congressman Courtney, and I know governors in New England have been in contact with their Congressional delegation members, to increase LIHEAP funding this fall. This is a very successful federal program that’s been very valuable to the people of Connecticut and New England over the past few years, and we need this influx of significant federal aid to continue,” Sen. Osten said.
Earlier this month, Congressman Courtney led a group of Connecticut and New England Congressional Delegations in writing appropriators seeking additional LIHEAP funding, in addition to other advocacy and outreach to understand the seriousness of the issue and ensure proper funding for these programs in question. Since then, the current bill under consideration has seen significant additional LIHEAP funding added to current allocations.
In late August, state legislators approved a plan to accept LIHEAP funding provided by the federal government. At the time, the expected allocation declined significantly, by about $60 million, due to decreases in federal support for the program. At the same time, the program has seen a 5% increase in use. Legislators were hopeful that federal support for LIHEAP would grow. Should the federal increased allocation be approved, it will provide millions of additional dollars for Connecticut.
Sen. McCrory Welcomes Over $10 Million for Hartford Economic and Community Development Projects
Sen. McCrory Welcomes Over $10 Million for Hartford Economic and Community Development Projects
Today, state Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford), a member of the Community Investment Fund 2030’s (CIF) board, announced that the multi-million-dollar program to support historically underserved communities in Connecticut has approved over $10 million toward several projects in Hartford. The several ambitious projects would support the various pillars that enable community renewal and growth including affordable housing, brownfield remediation, job training, entrepreneurship, and integrating historic neighborhood characteristics into redeveloped properties.
Further, these projects are grounded in advancing social justice on the local level including addressing housing segregation, building wealth and business opportunities in immigrant communities, and investing in communities of color.
The Community Investment Fund 2030 is a five-year grant program dedicated to fostering economic development in communities that have been historically underserved. It was enacted in 2021 as a result of efforts championed by Sen. McCrory, Sen. Fonfara, the Connecticut General Assembly’s Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, Democratic legislative leadership, and Governor Lamont. Eligible projects under the program include brownfield remediation, small business support programs, and infrastructure. More information about the program can be found at the Community Investment Fund website.
“These are the kind of investments that will make a multi-generational difference in people’s lives. We are giving people a hand-up to make the changes that they have long sought after and give them the tools to start a business, live independently, and unlock the potential their neighborhoods offer,” said Sen. McCrory. “It’s been an honor to work alongside numerous partners in creating the Community Investment Fund and to be part of unveiling the inaugural round of funding for transformative projects here in Hartford and across Connecticut.”
The following funding amounts were approved by the CIF board:
- $1,247,038 for Asylum Hill Neighborhood Association – The neighborhood revitalization organization will redevelop the Aetna Diner located on Farmington Avenue. The presently blighted property will be remediated, and the building renovated. The renovated building will retain the historic structure will providing space for a full-service restaurant, banquet facility, and meeting room. As a result, the revitalized space will promote economic development in the Asylum Hill Neighborhood and restoration of historic properties
- $1,137,514 for International Hartford – The non-profit organization would utilize the funds to create a year-round public food truck court for ethnic food vendors. The entrepreneurship project supporting minority entrepreneurs and the local immigrant community would be facilitated by renovating a 5,500 sq. ft. property at 681 Wethersfield Avenue. The space for up to 50 businesses to start or expand their operations would be supported by a learning laboratory providing business assistance services offered by the International Hartford
- $4,500,000 for North Hartford Collaborative – The funding will support the community development endeavors of a coalition of non-profit organizations and businesses in the North Hartford region. The coalition seeks to initiate several proposed projects with aims including increasing small business support services, workforce training, and redevelop property for housing and commercial uses.
- $3,750,000 for Sheldon Oak Central, Inc. – The funds will be used for the re-development of the MLK apartments – located Van Block Avenue in Sheldon/Charter Oak – to create several dozen new affordable housing units along with about 30 units at market rate. The buildings will be demolished thus removing the dated design style that separates it from the rest of the neighborhood. The new buildings in place will reflect the building design and heights of surrounding buildings, plus will meet current energy efficiency standards. Amenities in the building will include a fitness center, computer lab, and a green space. These collective measures will re-integrate the housing complex into the historic neighborhood. At the same time, the new MLK apartments will preserve the housing community’s unique qualities by maintaining the 1990’s mural created by local artists and youth
Senator Needleman Encouraged As State Police Report Crime Dropped In 2021, With Violent Crime Down 9%
Senator Needleman Encouraged As State Police Report Crime Dropped In 2021, With Violent Crime Down 9%
Huge declines in violent crime, car theft, assault, burglary in 2021, police say
HARTFORD – A new Connecticut State Police report on crime paints a picture of an incredibly safe State of Connecticut, police statistics show.
The 2021 “Crime in Connecticut” report published today shows that from 2021 compared to 2020, overall crime in Connecticut decreased by 2.76% to its second-lowest level in at least a decade.
Violent crime in Connecticut decreased by 9% to its lowest level in at least a decade, and motor vehicle thefts declined by 10.5%, with nearly 1,000 fewer motor vehicles stolen in 2021 compared to 2020.
- Arsons declined 28.9% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Burglaries were down 18.6% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Assaults declined 16.77% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Robberies were down 5.9% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Property crimes declined 2% to their second-lowest level in at least a decade.
Following a national trend, Connecticut’s murder and manslaughter rate did increase by 2.17% last year, with three more people murdered in the state in 2021 compared to 2020. Connecticut’s murder rate is still about 37% below the national average, however. The number of rapes also increased compared to 2020 but still remained at the decade-long average for Connecticut.
There were 9,038 sworn police personnel in Connecticut in 2021, or 2.51 officers for every 1,000 residents. No Connecticut police officer was killed in any felonious assault in 2021.
“It is extremely encouraging that crime is trending down in Connecticut according to the latest statistics,” said Sen. Needleman. “Police reports from across the state showed violent crime decreased by 9% and is at its lowest level since at least 2012. As the First Selectman of Essex, I work directly with local police as the civilian chief and I know firsthand their levels of enforcement and engagement with the community remain strong. I’m grateful to police around the state for performing their jobs well. During the worst parts of the pandemic in 2020, crime rose. As the pandemic’s worst parts abated in 2021, crime fell. I hope falling crime rates remain constant in 2022 and beyond.”
Sen. Needleman was among many legislators who in recent years have voted in support of bills strengthening juvenile crime laws and cracking down on car thefts as well as catalytic converters in efforts to reduce crime rates in Connecticut.
The 2021 version of “Crime in Connecticut” is the 44th in a series of annual state police reports dating back to 1978. “Crime in Connecticut” continues to be Connecticut’s most comprehensive compilation of crime data, providing detailed statistics on criminal offenses and arrests statewide. The publication’s source data are based upon monthly reporting of crime activity to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program at the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. Crime in Connecticut provides police departments, administrators, legislators, advocacy groups, and the general public with important information for planning purposes.
The full state police “Crime in Connecticut” report can be found here
Sen. McCrory Celebrates Over $5.5 Million for Renovation of Bloomfield Libraries
Sen. McCrory Celebrates Over $5.5 Million for Renovation of Bloomfield Libraries
Today, state Senator Doug McCrory, a member of the Bloomfield legislative delegation and the Community Investment Fund 2030’s (CIF) board, announced that the multi-million-dollar program to support historically underserved communities in Connecticut has approved over $5.5 million toward the Town of Bloomfield’s plans for construction and renovation of the Prosser Library and McMahon Wintonbury Library.
The current Prosser Library facility would be demolished and a nearly 30,000 sq. ft. building would be constructed in its place. The new building will enhance the surrounding community center including the town hall, several businesses close by and Filley Park. Additionally, the renovated and expanded McMahon Wintonbury Library will enable greater community services including job training and early childhood learning.
“As a long-time educator, I understand the pivotal role that libraries play in the early development of our young people and as community supports for people of all ages. The renovation and growth of these libraries align with the goals that were set out when my legislative partners and I envisioned the Community Investment Fund 2030. Create and enhance community centers that will lift up all people to learn, thrive, and connect with each other,” said Sen. McCrory.
The Community Investment Fund 2030 is a five-year grant program dedicated to investing in historically underserved communities. It was enacted in 2021 as a result of efforts championed by Sen. McCrory, the Connecticut General Assembly’s Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, Democratic legislative leadership, and Governor Lamont. Eligible projects under the program include infrastructure and public facility improvements, and small business support programs. More information about the program can be found at the Community Investment Fund website.
Senators Osten, Needleman Supportive As Congressman Courtney, Federal Leaders Fight To Bolster Funding For Heating Aid
Senator Osten Announces State Funding For Hebron And Lisbon Infrastructure Projects
Senators Osten, Needleman Supportive As Congressman Courtney, Federal Leaders Fight To Bolster Funding For Heating Aid
Noting the importance of the financial support for their constituents, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Norwich) today supported efforts by Congressional Democrats, including U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney, to bolster the funding put in place for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program in budgetary legislation currently under consideration by federal leaders.
In the act under consideration, which would temporarily fund the federal government through the end of the year, leaders have bolstered LIHEAP funding by $1 billion, higher than the $500 million proposed by the White House. LIHEAP funding aids the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program which provides direct assistance to homeowners to reduce heating and home energy use.
“In recent weeks, as legislators have considered LIHEAP funding in Connecticut – incredibly important and valuable for thousands of homeowners amid expected high heating costs this upcoming winter – we expressed the importance of waiting until we had all the facts,” said Sen. Needleman. “This program can be amended, and if this federal legislation passes, will be amended, to provide a significant increase in support for Connecticut residents and families in need. I’m grateful to Congressman Courtney and our federal representatives for recognizing this need and taking action to support so many in our state and beyond.”
“I’ve been in contact with Congressman Courtney, and I know governors in New England have been in contact with their Congressional delegation members, to increase LIHEAP funding this fall. This is a very successful federal program that’s been very valuable to the people of Connecticut and New England over the past few years, and we need this influx of significant federal aid to continue,” Sen. Osten said.
Earlier this month, Congressman Courtney led a group of Connecticut and New England Congressional Delegations in writing appropriators seeking additional LIHEAP funding, in addition to other advocacy and outreach to understand the seriousness of the issue and ensure proper funding for these programs in question. Since then, the current bill under consideration has seen significant additional LIHEAP funding added to current allocations.
In late August, state legislators approved a plan to accept LIHEAP funding provided by the federal government. At the time, the expected allocation declined significantly, by about $60 million, due to decreases in federal support for the program. At the same time, the program has seen a 5% increase in use. Legislators were hopeful that federal support for LIHEAP would grow. Should the federal increased allocation be approved, it will provide millions of additional dollars for Connecticut.
Senator Anwar Notes State Police Report Shows Drop In Crime In 2021, With Violent Crime Down 9%
Senator Anwar Notes State Police Report Shows Drop In Crime In 2021, With Violent Crime Down 9%
Huge declines in violent crime, car theft, assault, burglary in 2021, police say
HARTFORD – A new Connecticut State Police report on crime paints a picture of an incredibly safe State of Connecticut, police statistics show.
The 2021 “Crime in Connecticut” report published today shows that from 2021 compared to 2020, overall crime in Connecticut decreased by 2.76% to its second-lowest level in at least a decade.
Violent crime in Connecticut decreased by 9% to its lowest level in at least a decade, and motor vehicle thefts declined by 10.5%, with nearly 1,000 fewer motor vehicles stolen in 2021 compared to 2020.
- Arsons declined 28.9% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Burglaries were down 18.6% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Assaults declined 16.77% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Robberies were down 5.9% to their lowest level in at least a decade
- Property crimes declined 2% to their second-lowest level in at least a decade.
Following a national trend, Connecticut’s murder and manslaughter rate did increase by 2.17% last year, with three more people murdered in the state in 2021 compared to 2020. Connecticut’s murder rate is still about 37% below the national average, however. The number of rapes also increased compared to 2020 but still remained at the decade-long average for Connecticut.
There were 9,038 sworn police personnel in Connecticut in 2021, or 2.51 officers for every 1,000 residents. No Connecticut police officer was killed in any felonious assault in 2021.
“It is a relief to hear that violent crime saw a significant decline in 2021. There is no place for violent crime in our society and this bodes well for future trends,” said State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor). “According to the FBI, Connecticut is one of the safest states in the country. These statistics, which show Connecticut’s crime rates are either below or level with national averages – often significantly lower – back up that fact. I’m grateful to Connecticut’s police for their tireless work to stop and prevent crimes and hope this trend continues in years to come.”
Sen. Anwar was among many legislators who in recent years have voted in support of bills strengthening juvenile crime laws and cracking down on car thefts as well as catalytic converters in efforts to reduce crime rates in Connecticut.
The 2021 version of “Crime in Connecticut” is the 44th in a series of annual state police reports dating back to 1978. “Crime in Connecticut” continues to be Connecticut’s most comprehensive compilation of crime data, providing detailed statistics on criminal offenses and arrests statewide. The publication’s source data are based upon monthly reporting of crime activity to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program at the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. Crime in Connecticut provides police departments, administrators, legislators, advocacy groups, and the general public with important information for planning purposes.
The full state police “Crime in Connecticut” report can be found here