Month: April 2025

Senator Rahman Applauds Passage of Legislation Establishing National Women Veterans Recognition Day

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Rahman Applauds Passage of Legislation Establishing National Women Veterans Recognition Day

Sen. MD Rahman, D-Manchester, voted Tuesday with the state Senate to pass legislation he sponsored to designate June 12 of each year as National Women Veterans Recognition Day in Connecticut, to recognize the significant contributions of women who served in the United States armed forces.

Senate Bill 721, “An Act Designating National Women Veterans Recognition Day,” passed the Senate on a unanimous vote Tuesday afternoon and will now move to the House for consideration.

“I’m proud to have sponsored this legislation on behalf of women veterans across Connecticut and I thank my colleagues for their support,” Senator Rahman said. “Women serve in critical roles throughout our nation’s armed forces, and I hope that observing this day of recognition will demonstrate Connecticut’s appreciation for their courage and the sacrifices they have made for our nation.”

Women Veterans Recognition Day was first commemorated by the New York State Assembly in 2008 to mark the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, signed into law by President Harry S. Truman in 1948. This law enabled women to serve as permanent, regular members of the armed forces. Prior to its passage, women were restricted to serving as nurses during peacetime and all other women were sent home at the conclusion of each conflict.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, states and territories that observe Women Veterans Recognition Day include Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Virgin Islands, and Wisconsin.

Gaston Releases Statement Following Nightclub Roof Collapse in Dominican Republic

Posted on by Devin James

Gaston Releases Statement Following Nightclub Roof Collapse in Dominican Republic

State Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) released a statement today following the tragedy that occurred in the Dominican Republic early Tuesday. 124 people are dead following a roof collapse at a nightclub.

“My heart is with the families and loved ones affected by the tragic nightclub roof collapse in the Dominican Republic,” said Sen. Gaston. “I stand in solidarity with our Dominican community here in Bridgeport and Stratford during this devastating time. We mourn this loss together. Our community’s strength and unity will help us get through this, and we will continue to raise our voices for those who need help.”

Sen. Cohen Welcomes $24,000 in State Grants for Local Cemeteries

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Cohen Welcomes $24,000 in State Grants for Local Cemeteries

Recently, State Senator Christine Cohen welcomed the state’s $24,000 investment in the maintenance and care of local neglected graveyards across the 12th Senate District.

Through the state’s Neglected Cemetery Account Grant Program, Guilford, Branford and Middlefield will each receive $8,000 to support maintenance of local cemeteries that may not have received upkeep in recent years.

“Cemeteries are not only a resting place for those who have passed on, but a place where we can return to remember our loved ones,” said State Senator Christine Cohen. “I am grateful for this state partnership in ensuring that these final resting grounds are properly maintained out of respect for both the living and the dead.”

The grants can be used by towns receiving them to support basic maintenance ranging from clearing weeds and bushes to mowing lawns, repairing fences or walls and straightening, repairing and restoring memorial stones.

Senator Cohen proposed and helped pass legislation in 2023 to convene a working group to ensure family members of deceased veterans buried in Connecticut cemeteries. The proposal came after Senator Cohen received reports from constituents regarding the quality and condition of their loved ones’ gravesites at a number of cemeteries across the state. Family members say they have little recourse to see the conditions improved due to limited resources at many cemeteries and limited legal oversight, some volunteers work to clean and clear gravesites themselves. The working group is continuing to meet to address the issue.

For Immediate Release
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin – Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov – 860-304-2319

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Condemns Trump Administration Assault on Rule of Law

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Condemns Trump Administration Assault on Rule of Law

Left to Right:
Janée Woods Weber, Executive Director of She Leads Justice
Tonya Hughes, Executive Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities
David McGuire, Executive Director of the ACLU CT
State Representative Josh Elliot
State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (speaking)
State Representative Melissa Osbourne

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, a constitutional law professor, stood alongside a number of lawyer-legislators, civic groups, advocates and others to join the American Bar Association’s call for support for the rule of law and denouncing the Trump administration’s ongoing, systemic undermining of the American judicial system.

In February, the American Bar Association issued a statement condemning the Trump administration’s assault on the rule of law and asking elected representatives to “insist upon adherence to the rule of law” and urged “every attorney to join us and insist that our government, a government of the people, follow the law.” The ABA is a nonpartisan organization that went on to say, “The ABA does not oppose any administration. Instead, we remain steadfast in our support for the rule of law…The administration cannot choose which law it will follow or ignore.”

Specifically, the ABA called out the following actions of the Trump Administration:

-Targeting judges who issue opinions with which the administration does not agree;

-Targeting legal and medical organizations because of their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) advocacy;

-Illegally freezing U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funds;

-Illegally firing federal workers without due process;

-Attacking Constitutionally protected birthright citizenship, and

-Dismantling, without Congressional approval, agencies created by acts of Congress.

Last month, 20 Connecticut civic groups called upon the lawyer-legislators of the Connecticut General Assembly to stand with the ABA and condemn the actions of the current administration. The civic groups include: The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); The Active Voice; Act Local NWCT; ConnCAN (Campaign for Achievement Now); CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV); CT River Huddle Indivisible; Democracy Women in Action; Indivisible Southeast CT; Indivisible Stamford; Inter-religious Eco-Justice Network; League of Women Voters of CT; OrangeCT Indivisible; ReSisters; She Leads Justice; Shoreline Indivisible; Take Action CT; Third Act Connecticut; Quiet Corner Indivisible CT; Quiet Corner Shouts; UConn Law Diversity Alliance; University of Connecticut School of Law’s Energy and Environmental Law Society (EELS); and Wake the Future.

“I stand with the American Bar Association and the call to make a public statement confirming my commitment to the US Constitution and our system of law,” said State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, a constitutional law professor at Quinnipiac. “I make this commitment as a legislator, a lawyer, a professor of constitutional law – and most importantly, as an engaged citizen. Our Constitution carefully designed each branch of government to serve a particular function with the other two branches checking any overreach of power. The actions of the federal executive to defy judicial rulings, close programs created and funded by Congress, and deport lawful residents without due process are all acts that go well beyond the boundaries of the Constitution. They are unconstitutional and thereby un-American. We must do more than make statements to this end. We have to engage our communities in conversations about our Constitution to give them the tools to explain why these actions are unlawful and how they undermine the oldest and most respected constitution in the world. This is our history, our democracy, and our future! Let’s stand up to defend our Constitution!”

“Every elected leader, regardless of party, must uphold their oath to the Constitution. This is not about partisanship. It is about principle. For legislators who are also lawyers, the obligation is even greater. You took two oaths, and both demand action when the rule of law and democracy are under threat. Silence is not an option.” David McGuire, Executive Director, ACLU of Connecticut.

Senate President Looney Condemns Avelo Airlines for Profiting Off Deportation Flights

Posted on by Devin James

Senate President Looney Condemns Avelo Airlines for Profiting Off Deportation Flights

Today, Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) issued the following statement in response to the announcement that Avelo Airlines, a company with a significant and growing presence in Connecticut, will begin operating deportation flights for the federal government out of Arizona this May:

“When issues of humane and ethical principles compete with the profit motive and financial incentives, the principles, unfortunately, frequently lose. Avelo Airlines’ decision to contract with the federal government to operate deportation flights is a disgraceful capitulation to profit over humane concerns. It is particularly galling that a company presenting one face in Connecticut as a partner in economic development, community engagement, and opportunity, is simultaneously presenting another in Arizona where it will now serve as a willing participant in a deportation system that often strips individuals of their dignity, security, and hope.

“In Connecticut we welcome immigrants, support due process, and advocate for enlightened policies. It is deeply disturbing that a company operating out of our own airports would exploit federal contracts to carry out the cruel logistics of mass deportations while maintaining a sanitized public image here at home. In fact, Avelo’s pursuit of this contract with the federal government blatantly violates the spirit of Connecticut’s own TRUST Act.

“This moment reflects a broader, troubling trend in American institutions. We have seen major universities compromise their commitments to academic freedom under pressure, and some of the nation’s most prestigious law firms retreat from defending civil rights and constitutional liberties when faced with political backlash or financial threat. Avelo’s actions follow that same pattern—caving to government dollars at the expense of human rights.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud New State Bonding Funding for Norwalk Projects

Posted on by Devin James

Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud New State Bonding Funding for Norwalk Projects

HARTFORD – Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff and the Norwalk legislative delegation applauded the announcement of over $5.2 million in state bonding funding for key projects benefiting Norwalk.

The bond agenda includes $3,528,000 for Veterans Park Marina to finance improvements to the harbor. This funding will support critical improvements to the marina, enhancing Norwalk’s waterfront and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Additionally, $1,500,000 will be allocated to Friends of the Norwalk River Valley Trail, Inc. for the completion of the Norwalk section of the Norwalk River Valley Trail via the Glover Ave Spur. This investment will enhance connectivity, expand access to outdoor recreation, and further promote Norwalk’s growing network of green spaces.

The Open Door Shelter, Inc. will receive $250,000 for its Campus Expansion Project. These funds will support an assessment of the existing housing portfolio and explore the acquisition of abutting properties, furthering the shelter’s mission to provide critical services and housing solutions for those in need.

“This latest round of state bonding reaffirms our commitment to investing in Norwalk’s infrastructure, public spaces, and essential services,” said Senator Duff. “From improving our marina and expanding recreational trails to supporting housing initiatives, these projects will have a meaningful impact on our community. I extend my gratitude to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for prioritizing Norwalk in this funding cycle and improving the quality of life for residents.”

“I’m excited to see us moving forward with these projects, knowing they will have a lasting, positive impact on Norwalk,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan (D-Norwalk). “These investments on critical initiatives will enhance the quality of life for our residents and reflect our ongoing commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive community for all. Together, we are strengthening the foundation for a more prosperous future. Thank you CT Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for prioritizing Norwalk.”

“Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for once again investing in Norwalk,” said Rep. Dominique Johnson. “Improvements to the Veterans Park Marina and completing the Norwalk Valley River Trail will provide more access to outdoor activities in our beautiful community. Open Doors continues to make a profound impact through their work and this funding will enable them to not only address the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors but also expand their ability to meet the growing needs of our community.”

“Earlier this year, I co-founded the End Homelessness Caucus. Although we live in one of the richest states in the country, there are still several individuals who do not have reliable housing options. Norwalk is blessed to have an organization like Open Doors serving our community. Their hard work has ensured that houseless individuals and families have access to the resources they need in their search for housing stability. This funding will allow Open Doors to increase their reach and impact. Thank you Governor Lamont and the bond commission for providing funding for this vitally important project, as well as the other projects that will make Norwalk better than ever,” said Rep. Kadeem Roberts.

“This funding represents a significant investment in Norwalk’s future, improving our infrastructure, expanding recreational opportunities, and strengthening support for those in need,” said Rep. Travis Simms. “These projects will enhance our community’s quality of life, and I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in securing these critical resources for Norwalk.”

“These investments in Norwalk’s parks, trails, and essential services will enhance the quality of life for all residents,” Mayor Rilling said. “The much needed improvements to the marina at Veterans Park will provide improved waterfront facilities and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to the Norwalk harbor. The funding for the Norwalk River Valley Trail will bring us that much closer to completion of the Norwalk portion of the trail, benefiting not only Norwalk but the entire region, and the funding for The Open Door Shelter will further support their efforts to find housing solutions for those in need. I am grateful to Governor Lamont, Senator Duff, and our state partners for their support for these projects and for helping to make Norwalk a more connected and inclusive community.”

“Each of these projects will make improvements that enhance the quality of life for people who live in Norwalk and make the city an even better place to live and do business,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “I am glad that our administration could partner with these organizations and get these projects done.”

The bond agenda is set to be formally approved on Friday, April 11.

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN ISSUES STATEMENT RESPONDING TO CONNECTICUT RIVER MUSEUM LOSING FEDERAL GRANT

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN ISSUES STATEMENT RESPONDING TO CONNECTICUT RIVER MUSEUM LOSING FEDERAL GRANT

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) issued the following statement after learning the Connecticut River Museum was one of many organizations across the state to see an active grant terminated by Elon Musk’s DOGE through the National Endowment for the Humanities this month.

In January, the NEH announced more than $250,000 in funding was awarded to Connecticut groups including the Connecticut River Museum. It was slated to receive $25,000 for a new project focused on a new plan for the Samuel Lay House in Essex, training for staff and volunteers on encouraging conversation among visitors and training for an exhibition on the history of Black and Indigenous maritime workers in Connecticut. Last week, DOGE employees cut millions in grants through the NEH including the Connecticut River Museum’s grant.

“Amid a frenzied effort by the Trump administration to break our systems comes an attack on our arts and humanities. For this project to have its funding stripped doesn’t change our history or erase the hardworking people who faced adversity in the past, but it does reinforce that the federal government is interfering wherever it can. Connecticut has already lost funding supporting our libraries, our health systems, our mental health and substance use disorder supports, and this shows we’re at risk of losing more support every day. I’m not sure DOGE cutting a $25,000 museum grant is the epitome of ‘government waste,’ and I certainly don’t see studies of historical figures as ‘DEI.’ All I see here is broken promises on top of broken promises.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969

Trump Axes Critical Connecticut Library Grant

Posted on by Devin James

Trump Axes Critical Connecticut Library Grant

Thousands of CT Families, Kids, and Seniors Left in the Lurch

HARTFORD – Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) today strongly condemned the decision by the Trump administration to terminate Connecticut’s 2024-2025 federal grant awarded under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grant to States program. This funding, totaling $2.16 million, was intended to support critical statewide library services, yet more than 56 percent of the grant remains undelivered.

“This cruel and needless cut to Connecticut library funding will hit the most vulnerable people in our state the hardest,” said Senator Looney and Senator Duff. “It means a single mom loses access to job training. A child has no quiet place to read or learn after school. Seniors can’t get help navigating essential services. Libraries are not luxuries, and Donald Trump is severing these lifelines in the middle of the year, with no warning and no justification. We expect Connecticut Republicans to remain silent on these actions like every other cut from the Trump administration but especially this one as it aligns with their attacks on libraries in the General Assembly.”

The Connecticut State Library has used LSTA funds to support a wide range of vital services, including:

-Early literacy and summer reading programs serving nearly 230,000 children and families

-Workforce development and digital access initiatives to bridge the digital divide

-Professional development for librarians

-Statewide interlibrary loan and delivery services, circulating 1.5 million items

-The Connecticut Library for Accessible Books, providing audio and braille books to over 5,000 people, including veterans

-A statewide eBook lending platform, offering 50,000 digital books to residents

 

“Withdrawing library grants is a callous move at any time, but downright cruel at a time when it’s getting harder for many Americans to make ends meet – most of all, in small and rural communities,” said American Library Association President Cindy Hohl.

“We are deeply dismayed by this decision, which has immediate negative impact on every Connecticut resident and the library services they count on,” said Connecticut State Librarian Deborah Schander. “The Connecticut State Library remains committed to advancing the mission of libraries across the state and throughout our communities. In the meantime, we are exploring all options to ensure these vital services continue.”

Trump Axes Critical Connecticut Library Grant

Posted on by Devin James

Trump Axes Critical Connecticut Library Grant

Thousands of CT Families, Kids, and Seniors Left in the Lurch

HARTFORD – Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) today strongly condemned the decision by the Trump administration to terminate Connecticut’s 2024-2025 federal grant awarded under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grant to States program. This funding, totaling $2.16 million, was intended to support critical statewide library services, yet more than 56 percent of the grant remains undelivered.

“This cruel and needless cut to Connecticut library funding will hit the most vulnerable people in our state the hardest,” said Senator Looney and Senator Duff. “It means a single mom loses access to job training. A child has no quiet place to read or learn after school. Seniors can’t get help navigating essential services. Libraries are not luxuries, and Donald Trump is severing these lifelines in the middle of the year, with no warning and no justification. We expect Connecticut Republicans to remain silent on these actions like every other cut from the Trump administration but especially this one as it aligns with their attacks on libraries in the General Assembly.”

The Connecticut State Library has used LSTA funds to support a wide range of vital services, including:

-Early literacy and summer reading programs serving nearly 230,000 children and families

-Workforce development and digital access initiatives to bridge the digital divide

-Professional development for librarians

-Statewide interlibrary loan and delivery services, circulating 1.5 million items

-The Connecticut Library for Accessible Books, providing audio and braille books to over 5,000 people, including veterans

-A statewide eBook lending platform, offering 50,000 digital books to residents

 

“Withdrawing library grants is a callous move at any time, but downright cruel at a time when it’s getting harder for many Americans to make ends meet – most of all, in small and rural communities,” said American Library Association President Cindy Hohl.

“We are deeply dismayed by this decision, which has immediate negative impact on every Connecticut resident and the library services they count on,” said Connecticut State Librarian Deborah Schander. “The Connecticut State Library remains committed to advancing the mission of libraries across the state and throughout our communities. In the meantime, we are exploring all options to ensure these vital services continue.”

NORWICH IN LINE FOR MORE RIVERFRONT PARK FUNDING

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, April 4, 2025

NORWICH IN LINE FOR MORE RIVERFRONT PARK FUNDING

NORWICH – The State Bond Commission is expected to approve another $672,000 for improvements to Norwich’s harbor area when it meets in Hartford next Friday.

The Commission announced today that it expects to approve Small Harbor Improvement Grants of $480,000 for the Heritage Riverfront Park and Walkway and $192,000 for the adjoining Howard T. Brown Memorial Park.

Just last year, the Howard Brown Park received $2 million from Connecticut’s Community Investment Fund to return fueling capacity to the marina, update old and costly electrical infrastructure for docked boats, and add a seasonally usable splash pad and ice rink to the park near  the ice cream stand building.

“This new state bonding announced today is an extension of the work already going on at the waterfront marina. We’ve been looking forward to getting these grants to make the entire area more accessible and usable. The effect will be transformative,” said state Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague).

“I’m excited to see these two parks receive funding from the Bond Commission,” said state Representative Kevin Ryan (D-Montville). “It’s critical to have programs like the Small Harbor Improvement Projects Program providing funds for parks like these – that is what makes communities like Norwich so great. Thank you to the Bond Commission and my legislative colleagues for their advocacy on these projects.”

“These funds will help revitalize two integral parts of the Norwich community,” said state Representative Derell Wilson (D-Norwich). “I would like to thank the State Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for approving these funds and recognizing the importance of upgrading these two gems.”

The State Bond Commission is scheduled to meet in Room 1-E of the Legislative Office Building at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025.