Month: June 2024

SENATOR ANWAR HONORED AS ECUADORIAN SCHOOL DEDICATES KNOWLEDGE CENTER IN HIS NAME

Posted on by Devin James
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
June 6, 2024

SENATOR ANWAR HONORED AS ECUADORIAN SCHOOL DEDICATES KNOWLEDGE CENTER IN HIS NAME
State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) was honored in May as the EMDI School, located in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, dedicated its Knowledge Center, containing its library and several classrooms, in his honor. In May, Sen. Anwar was able to travel to Ecuador and meet students and school staff, share encouraging words with them, and tour the school’s facilities, including the new center.

“EMDI School has been gracious enough to name the Dr. Saud Anwar Knowledge Center after me, a surprising and humbling honor,” said Sen. Anwar, who is a practicing physician in addition to serving as State Senator. “I was recently able to travel to Ecuador and interact with some of the smartest students I’ve ever met, who are being taught how to speak four to five languages. The school’s robotics program is helping students learn artificial intelligence systems at a high school level. To be able to enjoy this experience was unforgettable and I’m grateful to school leaders who felt that I represent values helping children here in Connecticut; our actions here serve to create models that are followed and utilized around the world.”

A plaque outside the school’s Knowledge Center dedicates it in honor of Sen. Anwar due to his “unwavering commitment to early childhood care, children’s mental health and educational opportunities,” which have “profoundly improved the lives of many.” It cites his leadership providing a brighter future for children in Connecticut and how his efforts are achieving international reach, inspiring others in countries around the world to strive for greater achievements.

The EMDI School offers students in Ecuador opportunities to learn English, Portuguese, Mandarin Chinese, French and German, with 90% of students achieving a minimum of bilingual expertise and 90% receiving university scholarships upon graduation, with all students advancing to higher education.

EMDI School was founded in 1993 as a center for the stimulation of intelligence, and since 2014 has offered International Baccalaureate credit to students with an international approach developed to ensure students graduate ready for the challenges of the modern interconnected world.

Caption: Sen. Anwar joins students and leaders at the EDMI School in May at the dedication of the Dr. Saud Anwar Knowledge Center.

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN, REP. HAINES VISIT EAST HADDAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO HIGHLIGHT $2.06 MILLION IN HVAC UPGRADE FUNDING

Posted on by Devin James
State Senator Norm Needleman
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
June 6, 2024

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN, REP. HAINES VISIT EAST HADDAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO HIGHLIGHT $2.06 MILLION IN HVAC UPGRADE FUNDING
This afternoon, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Representative Irene Haines (R-34) joined with East Haddam education leaders at East Haddam Elementary School to highlight $2,059,978.52 in state grant funding that will support the replacement of heating and ventilation units in the school.

“Schools that were built decades ago are supporting our children and instilling them with the benefits of education, but may have aging or inefficient air conditioning, heating or ventilation mechanisms harming air quality,” said Sen. Needleman. “This funding will support cleaner air in all of our schools, but especially support members of the school community with asthma and other respiratory conditions. I’m looking forward to seeing this and many other projects advance in months and years to come.”

“The support we’re getting through this grant is sorely needed,” said Rep. Haines. “Any help that we can get is greatly appreciated.”

“It’s been welcoming to have Senator Needleman and Representative Haines come to really look at our school and look at the challenges that exist, as bidding came in over our initial quotes,” said Dr. Teresa DeBrito, East Haddam Superintendent. “We’re very grateful for the grant funding and an opportunity to be heard.”

“The school, now, is using equipment from the 60s and late 80s, and we’re trying to replace that for better air quality, for both air conditioning and heat,” said Donald Angersola, East Haddam Director of Operations. “Without the state grant, it wouldn’t be affordable to us. The bids came back over what was anticipated; without the grant money we wouldn’t even be able to start providing better air quality for the kids and staff and make an overall better environment here.”

School officials mentioned that inflation and increased costs caused their initial bids for the project to climb beyond amounts that were expected, adding to the importance of the grant.

The funds in question are being provided through the Indoor Air Quality Grant Program, established by legislators in 2022 to provide matching grants supporting municipalities needing HVAC work. School districts and schools with greatest needs for indoor air quality improvements are prioritized to receive this funding. Funds can be used to replace, upgrade or repair boilers and other heating/ventilation components, replacing controls and technology systems and installing/upgrading air conditioning/ventilation systems.

Studies have shown that up to 10% of students and teachers may suffer from asthma or allergies, and poor indoor air quality, temperature control and allergen control can worsen these conditions. This is part of an effort to modernize ventilation systems to filter air, reduce airborne contaminants and improve the health, safety and quality of schools statewide.

Caption: From left, Director Angersola, Dr. DeBrito, Sen. Needleman and Rep. Haines speak Thursday at East Haddam Elementary School.
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Senators Looney, Duff Release Statement Honoring Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier as He Is Laid to Rest

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney, Duff Release Statement Honoring Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier as He Is Laid to Rest
HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff released the following statement as Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier is laid to rest today:

“Today the state of Connecticut honors the memory of State Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier. In this time of profound sorrow, we extend our thoughts and prayers to his family and the entire law enforcement community. We acknowledge the heavy burden they bear and offer our deepest sympathies on this difficult day. TFC Pelletier’s dedication and service to the community will always be remembered. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov
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Senators Looney, Duff Release Statement Honoring Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier as He Is Laid to Rest

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney, Duff Release Statement Honoring Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier as He Is Laid to Rest
HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff released the following statement as Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier is laid to rest today:

“Today the state of Connecticut honors the memory of State Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier. In this time of profound sorrow, we extend our thoughts and prayers to his family and the entire law enforcement community. We acknowledge the heavy burden they bear and offer our deepest sympathies on this difficult day. TFC Pelletier’s dedication and service to the community will always be remembered. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov
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Sen. Lesser, Rep. Gilchrest Applaud Final Approval of Legislation to Require Medicaid Coverage of Biomarker Testing

Posted on by Devin James
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin | Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov

Sen. Lesser, Rep. Gilchrest Applaud Final Approval of Legislation to Require Medicaid Coverage of Biomarker Testing

Chairs of the Human Services Committee State Senator Matt Lesser and State Representative Jillian Gilchrest applaud the recent signing of Public Act 24-50 by Governor Lamont. The Governor’s signature gives final approval of legislation to require Medicaid coverage of biomarker testing, ​​an advanced medical test that allows providers to determine the best course of treatment for an illness like cancer, Alzheimers, ALS among many others.

“I am so pleased to see final approval of this legislation with the Governor’s signature. Biomarker testing is an increasingly important part of medicine, as we move towards personalized medicine,” said State Sen. Matt Lesser. “This fast-evolving field allows health care  to detect diseases early, better tailoring treatments to specific individuals. As a cancer survivor myself, biomarker testing was incredibly valuable to me personally. Connecticut has some of the starkest health disparities in the country, and by making biomarker testing available to those with low incomes we are helping make a dent in health equity. Moreover, by detecting diseases early and avoiding ineffective treatments, we hope to save taxpayer dollars. This was a collaborative effort and I am grateful for the support of patient advocacy groups and of the Department of Social Services.”

“Biomarker testing plays an important role in determining a patient’s treatment plan and preventative measures for a number of diseases,” Rep. Gilchrest said. “I am so proud that our state’s Medicaid program will cover this life-saving test.”

“Without Sen. Lesser’s leadership and tenacity, we would not be celebrating the passage of S.B 307. Biomarker testing is one of the most innovative testing methods for cancer today, helping patients get the right treatment at the right time. It allows doctors to develop personalized treatment plans precisely targeted to a patient’s specific disease. Thanks to Sen. Lesser and his colleagues, more men and women across Connecticut will benefit from affordable access to biomarker testing, and enjoy better quality of life and overall health outcomes as a result. ACS CAN applauds his leadership and looks forward to working with Sen. Lesser to continue to improve public health in Connecticut,” said Bryte Johnson, Director of Government Relations for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in Connecticut.

The bill goes into effect July 1, 2024 and requires the Department of Social Services (DSS), to the extent federal law allows, to provide coverage for biomarker testing to diagnose, treat, manage, or monitor a Medicaid enrollee’s disease or condition. The bill requires DSS to condition coverage on medical and scientific evidence.
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Senator Maher Joins State, Redding Leaders To Celebrate $1.92 Million Brownfield Remediation Grant

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Maher Joins State, Redding Leaders To Celebrate $1.92 Million Brownfield Remediation Grant

State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) recently joined state and Redding leaders to celebrate the town receiving a Brownfields Cleanup Grant valued at $1.92 million from the federal Environmental Protection Agency to support brownfields cleanup at the Gilbert & Bennett Wire Mill Manufacturing Site in town. The funds provide a strong opportunity for cleanup of a 44-acre site that has not been in operation for 35 years and provides any number of development opportunities that would benefit the community.

“This is an incredible investment and represents an opportunity that will benefit our community and our region,” said Sen. Maher. “These funds will provide the resources necessary to support remediation and cleanup of this important site and help us turn it around for development, whether that comes in the form of housing, business or outdoor recreation opportunities. I’m grateful to everyone who worked to help move our community forward in a wonderful way.”

U.S. Congressman Jim Himes, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Governor Ned Lamont, State Representative Anne Hughes (D-Redding) and Redding First Selectman Julia Pemberton were among the leaders celebrating this funding.

The $1,991,000 grant, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will be used to clean up the 44-acre site, which previously operated as a wire mill for more than 150 years, producing metal fencing, animal cages, insect screens and other metal projects. The site has been dormant since 1989 and its soil is contaminated with hazardous materials and petroleum products from former factor operations, with byproducts such as waste acids, alkalis, solvents and paints included in those elements.

This grant comes in addition to a $200,000 remediation grant supplied by the state in June 2023, which was directed to check for contamination levels there. These funds will support efforts to redevelop the area, which have been in progress for decades.

Senator Needleman Welcomes State Grant For Gillette Castle, Old Saybrook Trails

Posted on by Devin James
State Senator Norm Needleman
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
June 4, 2024

Senator Needleman Welcomes State Grant For Gillette Castle, Old Saybrook Trails

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) welcomed the announcement that Gillette Castle and Old Saybrook will receive grants through the Connecticut Recreational Trails Grant Program, which administers funds supporting planning, building, expansion and improvement of multi-use trails located in towns and cities throughout Connecticut.

These grants can be used for a wide variety of purposes for bikeways, walkways and greenways, with the work from these grants expected to be complete by 2027.

“Our local trails are great resources for exploration, appreciating our region’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation,” said Sen. Needleman. “It’s great news to hear that Gillette Castle and Old Saybrook will receive support to protect and improve these trails. I’m grateful to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and Governor Lamont for their support of our communities.”

Gillette Castle State Park will receive $300,000 for the replacement of its Railroad Trail Pedestrian Bridge.

Old Saybrook’s Saybrook Point Trail and Education Project will receive $366,640 for planning and design, construction, maintenance, education, amenities, publications and outreach.
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Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud Over $7 Million for Norwalk

Posted on by Devin James
Senator Bob Duff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud Over $7 Million for Norwalk

HARTFORD – Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, Rep. Lucy Dathan, Rep. Dominique Johnson, Rep. Kadeem Roberts, and Rep. Travis Simms applauded the announcement of over $7 million in state bonding funding for local Norwalk projects.

The bond agenda includes $300,000 in new funding for expansion and renovations of 7,000 square feet of space for new dressing rooms, production facilities, and other amenities at the Music Theatre of Connecticut. Located on Westport Avenue it is the leading professional theatre and conservatory in Norwalk. Music Theatre of Connecticut seeks to preserve, present, and extend the greatest traditions of American theatre through immersive professional performances and educational programming of the highest quality.

Side by Side Charter School will receive $268,922 for electrical service upgrade, air conditioning upgrade, staff room renovation, exterior doors, and flooring. Side by Side is a regional public charter school located in the heart of downtown South Norwalk educating 235  Pre-K through 8th grade students.

In addition, the bond agenda will officially approve two previous projects put forth by the Community Investment Fund.

Norwalk Housing Authority will receive $3,444,751 for a project at 45 Meadow St. The funds will support replacement of 54 units of obsolete affordable housing with 55 modern, energy efficient, affordable housing units and amenities.

Norwalk Redevelopment Agency will receive $3,000,000 for South Norwalk streetscape improvements. The funds will go toward significant capital improvements to public infrastructure to support pedestrian infrastructure and align with completed mobility study.

“Another day and another large investment from the state of Connecticut in Norwalk,” said Senator Duff. “This round of state bonding money will provide for improvement in housing, the arts, education, and traffic and pedestrian safety. I would like to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for approving these projects and continuing to support our great city.”

“I applaud the vital funding for the arts, housing, education and streetscape improvements, as these investments enrich our communities, foster creativity and improve the quality of life for our residents,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “I am grateful to my Norwalk colleagues for our collaborative efforts advocating for our city, and to the governor for prioritizing these projects.”

“I could not be more pleased that Norwalk will be receiving more funding to assist in the expansion of several projects for which its residents can be proud, including affordable housing at 45 Meadow Street,” said Rep. Travis Simms. “I would like to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for their support.”

“This bond allocation is another example of the state’s commitment to Norwalk. I am excited that our city is set to receive funding that will make Norwalk an even better community for residents and visitors alike. Thank you to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for your approval of these projects,” said Rep. Kadeem Roberts.

“I’d like to thank Governor Lamont and the bond commission for allocating $7 million to Norwalk. These projects will go a long way towards strengthening the city, and I look forward to seeing how this investment benefits the community,” said Rep. Dominique Johnson.

“These projects are each focused on improving the quality of life for the residents of Norwalk, and I am glad that our administration could work with Senator Duff on getting them approved,” Governor Ned Lamont said.

The bond agenda is set to be formally approved on June 7, 2024.

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov