SEN. NEEDLEMAN JOINS IN BIPARTISAN SENATE APPROVAL OF ARBITRATED PANDEMIC PAYMENTS FOR STATE EMPLOYEES WORKING DURING COVID CRISIS
HARTFORD – State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) joined a bipartisan vote in the state Senate today to approve an arbitrated award granting 35,500 state employees an average of $25 a week for the year they spent working closely with others at a time when there was no COVID-19 vaccine and the COVID-19 infection process was largely a mystery.
Senate Resolution 26 passed today on a bipartisan vote of 32-3.
“Our action today ensures tens of thousands of crucial, essential state workers receive recognition of their hard work during difficult times,” said Sen. Needleman. “When we were still learning a fraction of what we now know about COVID-19, these first responders, health care workers and many others continued to report to work and kept our state running. They deserve this support.”
The pandemic payments were ordered by a neutral third-party arbitrator who noted that in March 2020, when Governor Lamont declared an emergency and urged people in Connecticut to “stay safe and stay home,” that did not apply to nearly 36,000 essential state employees who continued to report to their workplaces from March 20, 2020, through March 27, 2021. These employees enforced law and order, cared for the sick, the disabled, responded to emergencies and maintained the equipment and infrastructure that allowed state services to continue during a year in which there were 7,832 COVID deaths and 29,916 COVID hospitalizations.
The average award per-person is $1,333 for the year – about 62 cents an hour – though payments vary widely by position.
Other New England states providing similar pandemic pay stipends to their state employees include New Hampshire ($2,400 to $6,300 per-person), Massachusetts ($1,500 to $2,000 lump-sum payments per-person), Maine (hourly pay increases which exceed the Connecticut arbitration award) and Vermont (premium pay for corrections officers only).
SEN. LESSER APPLAUDS BIPARTISAN SENATE APPROVAL OF ARBITRATED PANDEMIC PAYMENTS FOR STATE EMPLOYEES WORKING DURING COVID CRISIS
SEN. LESSER APPLAUDS BIPARTISAN SENATE APPROVAL OF ARBITRATED PANDEMIC PAYMENTS FOR STATE EMPLOYEES WORKING DURING COVID CRISIS
HARTFORD – State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) applauds a bipartisan vote in the state Senate today to approve an arbitrated award granting 35,500 state employees an average of $25 a week for the year they spent working closely with others at a time when there was no COVID-19 vaccine and the COVID-19 infection process was largely a mystery.
Senate Resolution 26 passed today on a bipartisan vote of 32-3. Due to a scheduling conflict, Senator Lesser was not present for the vote on the Senate floor. Senator Lesser voted yes on the arbitration agreement in the Appropriations Committee on March 30, 2023.
“While many white collar workers were able to work from home in the pandemic, essential state workers: nurses, correctional officers, police officers, custodians and so many others had to show up each and every day,” said Sen. Lesser. “Think back to the first wave of the pandemic – how many got sick, how many passed away and the stress everyone was feeling and you’ll understand why these essential workers deserve pandemic pay. I’m so thrilled we could get this done.”
The pandemic payments were ordered by a neutral third-party arbitrator who noted that in March 2020, when Governor Lamont declared an emergency and urged people in Connecticut to “stay safe and stay home,” that did not apply to nearly 36,000 essential state employees who continued to report to their workplaces from March 20, 2020, through March 27, 2021. These employees enforced law and order, cared for the sick, the disabled, responded to emergencies and maintained the equipment and infrastructure that allowed state services to continue during a year in which there were 7,832 COVID deaths and 29,916 COVID hospitalizations.
The average award per-person is $1,333 for the year – about 62 cents an hour – though payments vary widely by position.
Other New England states providing similar pandemic pay stipends to their state employees include New Hampshire ($2,400 to $6,300 per-person), Massachusetts ($1,500 to $2,000 lump-sum payments per-person), Maine (hourly pay increases which exceed the Connecticut arbitration award) and Vermont (premium pay for corrections officers only).
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) released statements celebrating Quinnipiac University winning the men’s hockey championship.
“Congrats to Hamden’s own Quinnipiac University on a championship win!” said Sen. Looney. “The team played with tremendous heart, skill, and determination throughout the entire tournament. Third time’s the charm!”
“Congratulations Quinnipiac on an incredible championship!” said Sen. Duff. “That last game was some of the best college hockey I’ve watched in a long time. The overtime goal was simultaneously powerful and beautiful. Enjoy the celebrations!”
“Congratulations to the players, coaches and entire staff of the Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey team on their thrilling overtime victory to capture the 2023 National Championship,” said Sen. Cabrera. “I am always proud to represent my old college and am extremely happy for each and every QU Bobcat, as this title run was truly admirable.”
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) released statements celebrating Quinnipiac University winning the men’s hockey championship.
“Congrats to Hamden’s own Quinnipiac University on a championship win!” said Sen. Looney. “The team played with tremendous heart, skill, and determination throughout the entire tournament. Third time’s the charm!”
“Congratulations Quinnipiac on an incredible championship!” said Sen. Duff. “That last game was some of the best college hockey I’ve watched in a long time. The overtime goal was simultaneously powerful and beautiful. Enjoy the celebrations!”
“Congratulations to the players, coaches and entire staff of the Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey team on their thrilling overtime victory to capture the 2023 National Championship,” said Sen. Cabrera. “I am always proud to represent my old college and am extremely happy for each and every QU Bobcat, as this title run was truly admirable.”
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Senators Looney, Duff, and Cabrera Release Statements on Quinnipiac University’s Championship
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) released statements celebrating Quinnipiac University winning the men’s hockey championship.
“Congrats to Hamden’s own Quinnipiac University on a championship win!” said Sen. Looney. “The team played with tremendous heart, skill, and determination throughout the entire tournament. Third time’s the charm!”
“Congratulations Quinnipiac on an incredible championship!” said Sen. Duff. “That last game was some of the best college hockey I’ve watched in a long time. The overtime goal was simultaneously powerful and beautiful. Enjoy the celebrations!”
“Congratulations to the players, coaches and entire staff of the Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey team on their thrilling overtime victory to capture the 2023 National Championship,” said Sen. Cabrera. “I am always proud to represent my old college and am extremely happy for each and every QU Bobcat, as this title run was truly admirable.”
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) released the following statement regarding the expulsion of Tennessee Representatives Justin Jones and Justin Pearson:
“The expulsion of Rep. Justin Jones and Rep. Justin Pearson is a shockingly authoritarian and unapologetically racist act by Republicans in Tennessee. This anti-democratic action by a state legislative body tramples on the foundation of our free society. The Republican goal is clear: obtain power, silence dissent, and eliminate the rights of those who stand in the way.”
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Expulsion of Tennessee Representatives
Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) released the following statement regarding the expulsion of Tennessee Representatives Justin Jones and Justin Pearson:
“The expulsion of Rep. Justin Jones and Rep. Justin Pearson is a shockingly authoritarian and unapologetically racist act by Republicans in Tennessee. This anti-democratic action by a state legislative body tramples on the foundation of our free society. The Republican goal is clear: obtain power, silence dissent, and eliminate the rights of those who stand in the way.”
Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus Releases the Following Statement Regarding the Expulsion of Tennessee Lawmakers Justin Jones and Justin Pearson
Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus Releases the Following Statement Regarding the Expulsion of Tennessee Lawmakers Justin Jones and Justin Pearson
HARTFORD, CT – The Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus released the following statement in response to the expulsion of two Black lawmakers from the Tennessee legislature. The Republican-led legislature expelled state Representatives Justin Jones and Justin Pearson and took an additional vote to expel state Representative Gloria Johnson following their lawful protest of lax gun control policy contributing to a nationwide crisis of school shootings and gun violence. Rep. Johnson narrowly avoided expulsion.
“I stand in support of the Tennessee Three, brave Black legislators Representatives Justin Jones, Justin Pearson and Gloria Johnson who were subjected to an expulsion vote for exercising their freedom of speech, speaking out against gun violence, and representing their constituents with class, strength and passion,” said Chair Senator Pat Billie Miller (D-Stamford). “They are calling what happened yesterday a ‘political lynching.’ The actions of the Republican-led Tennessee legislature to expel Rep. Jones and Rep. Pearson and taking an additional vote to expel Rep. Johnson, are disgraceful, racist and dishonorable. It is a blatant show of utter disregard for the opinions of their Black counterparts and the many constituents who share the same sentiments. Instead of expelling those who disagree with them, I strongly encourage the Tennessee legislature to direct their focus towards addressing the real issues Tennesseans face and trusted them to rectify.”
The Tennessee Three participated in protests alongside residents just days following the tragic shooting at the Covenant School, a private Christian school, where six people were killed, three of whom were children. Historically, it is rare for members of any state legislature to be expelled for matters not concerning serious misconduct.
“Today I fully recognize the privilege that comes with serving the State of Connecticut,” said Vice Chair and state Representative Antonio Felipe (D- Bridgeport). “Being the youngest member of our General Assembly and more importantly the BPRC I am ashamed of the Tennessee GOP for silencing the two powerful black voices of Justin Jones and Justin Pearson. The two youngest voices Representing their state. They have been used as a smokescreen to distract Tennesseans from the real issue that these brave, passionate representatives spoke out for in the first place. I commend Representative Gloria Johnson for standing alongside these men but the fact that she remains paints a full picture. This was clearly an act of racism but more importantly it was an act of fear. Young voices of color are rising up across this country, more and more of us are being elected to represent a generation that has never been represented before. We are unapologetic, we are ready to break the wheel and we do not accept the notion that we must fit a mold or an archetype. There is a future to be shaped across this country and in the best interest of that future this cannot be the last we see of Representatives Jones and Pearson.
The Connecticut BPRC stands in full solidarity with their fellow elected officials in Tennessee. If we stand by idly and ignore acts of blatant racism, we would not be fulfilling our duty to those who elected us to protect their freedoms. We hope that the Tennessee legislature truly unite to address gun violence rather than continue down the path of silencing those who are fighting to keep students and families safe.
Senator Lopes, New Britain Delegation Welcomes over $5.7 Million in State Bonding for Projects in New Britain
Senator Lopes, New Britain Delegation Welcomes over $5.7 Million in State Bonding for Projects in New Britain
Today, the New Britain Delegation comprised of state Senator Rick Lopes (D-New Britain), Representatives Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), Manny Sanchez (D-New Britain), Robert Sanchez (D-New Britain), and Gary Turco (D-New Britain), is welcoming $5.7 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in New Britain. Funds will be allocated to Meriden New Britain Berlin YMCA in New Britain and a historic mill complex on Ellis Street in New Britain.
“The New Britain community is in need of pre-k childcare and this funding will allow expansion in downtown New Britain as well as general improvements to the New Britain branch of the YMCA,” said Sen. Lopes. “I am thankful to the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for their support in helping parents and families in need. Their continued support and investments are crucial for the future of New Britain.”
“This funding presents a great opportunity for New Britain,” said Rep. Tercyak. “Given childcare and affordable housing’s critical importance to our state’s success, I’m proud to see New Britain putting these funds to good use and continuing to build a more inclusive community.”
“Investments in childcare and housing are always needed and welcomed – this transformation of otherwise dormant space is a much more beneficial use, and I am sure every last additional childcare slot will be a blessing for families in need,” said Rep. Manny Sanchez. “This is a sound investment for the future of New Britain.”
“The foundation of thriving neighborhoods and communities is access to childcare and housing,” said Rep. Robert Sanchez. “I am very pleased with the funding approval and look forward to the increased participation of children that will allow more parents to pursue and maintain gainful employment.”
“These are vital investments in the expansion of child care services and affordable housing,” said Rep. Gary Turco. “Investing in child care and affordable housing is essential because the returns on investment are immeasurable for children and families, the workforce and the local economy. I want to thank Governor Lamont and State Bond Commission for approving these critical community investments.”
“These funds will enable New Britain to expand services in two critical areas that have been priorities for my administration – access to childcare and affordable housing,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said. “I am glad that we could partner with these local organizations and make these projects a reality.”
Under the bonding agenda: The Meriden New Britain Berlin Young Men’s Christian Association in New Britain will be allocated $1.7 million to help with the renovation of some of the unused racquetball courts, repurposing them to create six additional childcare classrooms within the NAEYC accredited center. This expansion will allow increased childcare capacity for 72 children; The Ellis Street Mill, LLC will be allocated a $4 million loan for the adaptive reuse of the historic mill complex located at 321 Ellis Street in New Britain. The rehabilitation will result in 154 new affordable housing units for those making between 30% and 80% Area Median Income (AMI). 21 of these units will be for those making at or below 30% AMI.
Sen. Maher, Rep. Dathan Welcome $120,075 for Police Department Body and Dash Cameras and Video Storage Devices in Various Towns
Sen. Maher, Rep. Dathan Welcome $120,075 for Police Department Body and Dash Cameras and Video Storage Devices in Various Towns
HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) and state Representative Lucy Dathan (D-New Canaan, Norwalk) welcomed state funding totaling $120,075 across the 26th state Senate District. Municipalities received state funding for body and dash cameras for local police departments in New Canaan, Ridgefield, and Weston.
“Thank you to all those who worked hard to help secure these funds and to Governor Ned Lamont and the state’s Bond Commission,” said Sen. Maher. “Body and dash camera funding helps to make our already safe communities even more secure for both residents and law enforcement.”
“I am pleased to have helped secure state funds to support our New Canaan Police Department to invest in much needed equipment,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “These updated technologies will assist with modernizing our police force and will provide our police officers with the necessary gear to keep them safer while they work protecting and serving our community.”
“Body cameras have been proven to provide both police and civilians with a valuable resource that benefits public safety, and I am glad that the state could partner with these towns to get this funding approved so they can purchase this equipment,” Governor Ned Lamont, who serves as chairman of the State Bond Commission, said.
Per the state bonding agenda, Weston ($41,264), Ridgefield ($40,250) and New Canaan ($38,561) are receiving funds in part “to reimburse fourteen police departments for the purchase of body cameras, dash cameras, and video storage devices.”