Month: June 2025

STATEMENT OF LABOR COMMITTEE SENATE CHAIR JULIE KUSHNER ON GOV. LAMONT’S VETO OF SENATE BILL 8 /UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS FOR WORKERS ON STRIKE MORE THAN 14 DAYS

Posted on by Devin James

STATEMENT OF LABOR COMMITTEE SENATE CHAIR JULIE KUSHNER ON GOV. LAMONT’S VETO OF SENATE BILL 8 /UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS FOR WORKERS ON STRIKE MORE THAN 14 DAYS

“The governor is on the wrong side on this one. Most often, strikes occur when workers are fighting to protect their health and pension benefits or fighting egregious working conditions. It’s never an easy or careless decision to strike. Furthermore, when unionized workers’ wages and benefits are protected or improved, every business in Connecticut is then pressured to improve its own workplace standards. This bill would not only help workers on one particular picket line, it would help the entire Connecticut workforce – our friends and neighbors – and keep us moving forward. That’s really important in this economy where corporate profits are soaring, where the stock market is soaring, and where working people are left to grapple with rising prices for rent and childcare and inflation at the grocery store and gas pump.

“I disagree with the governor when he suggests that providing unemployment benefits to striking workers gives them an unfair advantage at the bargaining table. For nearly 100 years, since the enactment of the National Labor Relations Act, corporate America has lobbied successfully to impose limitations on workers’ rights – putting their collective thumb on the scales in favor of business. But when Democrats in the General Assembly – who were overwhelmingly elected to represent the people of this state just a few months ago – pass legislation that would allow workers to exercise without fear of impoverishment their right to strike under federal law, the governor sides with businesses,  joining the long list of politicians, past and present, who side with corporate executives. Now is a good time to remember that the only reason that we have good jobs with good benefits in Connecticut is because of the effort of labor unions to fight for and secure these jobs. For example, Pratt & Whitney threatened to move out of state if the governor were to sign this bill. Did the governor get a written commitment, or even a handshake, from Pratt to create more jobs or even guarantee that the jobs we have will stay in Connecticut? The only written guarantees from Pratt are in the union contract the workers fought to secure.

“Thank you, Connecticut union members, for working so hard to get this bill passed. I look forward to raising this issue again in another legislative session and having it successfully signed into law – whether that’s next year or when we elect a governor who has pledged to support workers on this critical priority.”

State Senator Julie Kushner, D-Danbury, Senate Chair, Labor & Public Employees Committee

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of SB 8

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of SB 8

HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) issued the following statements today in response to Governor Lamont’s veto of Senate Bill 8.

“We are disheartened that Governor Lamont has vetoed Senate Bill 8, which would have extended unemployment insurance protections to striking workers. Connecticut faces a Trump administration rolling back worker protections, a National Labor Relations Board that is in the back pocket of big business, and an unprecedented consolidation of corporate power. Now, more than ever, states must stand up for workers’ rights. The Connecticut State Senate recognizes that other states have adopted various versions of this policy tailored to their unique circumstances. We remain willing to compromise with the Governor to achieve consensus on an appropriate model for Connecticut.”

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of SB 8

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of SB 8

HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) issued the following statements today in response to Governor Lamont’s veto of Senate Bill 8.

“We are disheartened that Governor Lamont has vetoed Senate Bill 8, which would have extended unemployment insurance protections to striking workers. Connecticut faces a Trump administration rolling back worker protections, a National Labor Relations Board that is in the back pocket of big business, and an unprecedented consolidation of corporate power. Now, more than ever, states must stand up for workers’ rights. The Connecticut State Senate recognizes that other states have adopted various versions of this policy tailored to their unique circumstances. We remain willing to compromise with the Governor to achieve consensus on an appropriate model for Connecticut.”

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of HB 5002

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of HB 5002

HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) issued the following statements today in response to Governor Lamont’s veto of House Bill 5002.

“We are deeply disappointed that Governor Lamont has chosen to veto the most comprehensive effort to tackle Connecticut’s urgent housing crisis. Connecticut cannot create jobs, lower costs, and attract businesses without building more housing.

“Democratic and Republican governors across the country, like Florida, Texas, California, and Montana, understand the need to cut red tape and increase housing supply. Many of those chief executives take the lead on housing initiatives because they understand how critical these measures are to the local economy. At our State Capitol, undue weight is placed on the opinions of some municipal officials who do not think beyond the borders of their own communities, rather than on the needs of families seeking housing.

“We have collaborated with Governor Lamont on many issues, including this bill, and we look forward to a continued partnership. The Governor earnestly believes he can get municipal officials and their interest groups to agree to a strong bill. When that happens, we look forward to seeing the proposal.

“We will continue to stand strong on addressing housing. The families in the state are counting on us. We will break through as we must for the future of our state.”

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of HB 5002

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statement on Governor’s Veto of HB 5002

HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) issued the following statements today in response to Governor Lamont’s veto of House Bill 5002.

“We are deeply disappointed that Governor Lamont has chosen to veto the most comprehensive effort to tackle Connecticut’s urgent housing crisis. Connecticut cannot create jobs, lower costs, and attract businesses without building more housing.

“Democratic and Republican governors across the country, like Florida, Texas, California, and Montana, understand the need to cut red tape and increase housing supply. Many of those chief executives take the lead on housing initiatives because they understand how critical these measures are to the local economy. At our State Capitol, undue weight is placed on the opinions of some municipal officials who do not think beyond the borders of their own communities, rather than on the needs of families seeking housing.

“We have collaborated with Governor Lamont on many issues, including this bill, and we look forward to a continued partnership. The Governor earnestly believes he can get municipal officials and their interest groups to agree to a strong bill. When that happens, we look forward to seeing the proposal.

“We will continue to stand strong on addressing housing. The families in the state are counting on us. We will break through as we must for the future of our state.”

Sen. Lesser Reacts to Senate Proposal to Cut Billions More from Medicaid

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Lesser Reacts to Senate Proposal to Cut Billions More from Medicaid

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Matt Lesser, Senate Chair of the Human Services Committee, released a statement in response to the U.S. Senate policy bill announced this week that would deliver billions more in Medicaid cuts than the House proposal passed last month. The proposal would limit a provision that provides more federal matching funds to states. The Medicaid provider tax is used by 49 states and would cutting its funding would shortchange states by billions of dollars.

“Donald Trump made a promise not to cut Medicaid, but this proposal will do exactly that. Make no mistake, Congressional Republicans are targeting Blue states who have expanded access to healthcare under the Affordable Care Act,” said Sen. Lesser. “Between gutting the Medicaid provider tax and strengthening the loss-of-work penalty, this proposal is even more devastating than what was proposed by the House, and will put 20% of Connecticut’s federal Medicaid funding at risk. This is an enormous cost-shift to the states, and while in Connecticut we are dedicated to protecting healthcare for our most vulnerable, there is only so much funding we can provide.”

“Whether it be protecting healthcare, food programs, heating assistance or any other basic need that comes under attack, I will always defend Connecticut against a hostile federal partner who continues to break their promises to the people they were elected to serve.”

West Hartford Delegation Secures State Funding for Mobility Hubs in The Center

Posted on by Devin James

West Hartford Delegation Secures State Funding for Mobility Hubs in The Center

In the last days of the 2025 legislative session, State Senator Derek Slap and State Representatives Jillian Gilchrest, Tammy Exum, Kate Farrar, James Sanchez and James Sánchez welcomed $600,000 in the state budget for the development of two mobility hubs in West Hartford Center.

The legislative delegation worked with Mayor Shari Cantor and Town Manager Rick Ledwith to secure $300,000 in both 2026 and 2027 for the development and expansion of two mobility hubs in West Hartford Center, one on LaSalle Road and the other on Farmington Avenue.

The mobility hubs are in line with both the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Plan and the town’s Vision Zero Plan by enhancing multimodal transportation options, reducing vehicle congestion and improving safety for all road users. The hubs will integrate bike share, transit connections, e-charging stations, covered bike racks, pedestrian infrastructure, and emerging mobility technologies. This infrastructure plan takes steps towards the town’s goal of a more sustainable and efficient transportation network, while also incorporating the goals of Vision Zero and increasing traffic safety.

“I am thrilled to have been able to secure these funds for continued development of West Hartford Center,” said Sen. Slap (D-West Hartford). “The Center is the heart of our community and serves residents of all ages. The leadership and vision of Mayor Cantor and her administration is well-illustrated with this project, centering both economic development and pedestrian safety. I look forward to seeing this project come to fruition and our continued partnership to best serve the residents of West Hartford.”

“I am in full support of expanding transportation options in accessible locations to meet a diversity of needs. This is a smart, forward-looking investment in both our current and future economic vitality. I look forward to seeing the transportation hub foster greater interconnectivity, strengthen our sense of community, and enhance the overall quality of life for everyone it serves,” said Rep. Gilchrest (D-West Hartford).

“West Hartford is such a popular place to be,” Rep. Tammy Exum (D-West Hartford, Avon) said. “I am pleased to see funding secured to make our town less congested, more connected, and safer by integrating bike share, bike racks, transit connections, e-charging stations, and more. I am excited about the possibilities the mobility hubs on LaSalle Road and Farmington Ave., will offer.”

“State funding to develop two mobility hubs in West Hartford Center is a major step to improve more accessible transportation for all in our town and region,” said Rep. Kate Farrar (D-West Hartford, Newington). “Any step to improve more seamless access to transportation options, such as biking, walking, and transit, supports our vibrant and healthy community.”

“Funding for mobility hubs in West Hartford Center is a major step in building a more connected and inclusive community. These modern-day transportation centers will provide safe, accessible, and convenient options for people to get around,” said Rep. James Sánchez (D – West Hartford, Hartford). “This investment helps ensure West Hartford remains vibrant and sustainable for all.”

“Having access to multiple forms of transportation will unlock the state for residents in our community. Transit centers are an excellent investment and I am excited to see how they transform West Hartford for the better,” said Rep. Gibson (D – West Hartford, Bloomfield).

West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor said, “We are deeply appreciative of the state’s investment for the full implementation of two mobility hubs that closely align with our Center Infrastructure Plan and our Vision Zero Plan. These mobility hubs are designed to enhance multimodal transportation options, reduce vehicular congestion, and improve safety for all road users—goals that are foundational to West Hartford’s future and to broader regional priorities. By integrating bike share, transit connections, e-charging stations, covered bike racks, pedestrian infrastructure, and emerging mobility technologies, these hubs will serve as anchors in our efforts to create a more connected, accessible, and safe West Hartford Center.” She continued, “Moreover, the mobility hubs directly support our Vision Zero strategy by addressing known high-risk areas with infrastructure that prioritizes safety, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. The investment in these hubs is not only a strategic move toward a more sustainable and efficient transportation network but also a moral imperative as we work to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.”

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statements on Assassinations and Attempted Assassinations of Democratic-Farm-Labor Legislators and Spouses in Minnesota

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statements on Assassinations and Attempted Assassinations of Democratic-Farm-Labor Legislators and Spouses in Minnesota

HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) issued the following statements today in response to the assassinations of Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark as well as the attempted assassinations of Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette.

“We are deeply shocked and heartbroken by the horrifying assassinations of former Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well as the attempted murders of Democratic–Farmer–Labor Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette,” said Senate President Martin Looney. “As Board President of the State Legislative Leaders Foundation, I know the deep commitment Melissa brought to public service as a former leader of the House of Representatives in Minnesota. Unfortunately, we have also learned the risks our colleagues increasingly face simply for doing their jobs. This appalling act of violence is an attack on democracy itself and has shaken legislative bodies across our country to their core. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of Representative Hortman and Mark, and I pray for State Senator Hoffman and his wife as they recover. We must meet this moment with renewed resolve to protect public servants and reject political violence and the vile rhetoric that leads to these actions.”

“Melissa was a passionate leader and friend whom I had the privilege to travel and serve with through the National Conference of State Legislatures,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “Her loss, along with her husband’s, is tragically unfathomable. She was thoughtful, courageous, dedicated, and represented the best of public service. My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families and with Senator Hoffman and his wife as they recover. This tragedy reminds us that threats to our democracy are real, and that we must stand united against political violence and the forces that perpetuate it.”

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statements on Assassinations and Attempted Assassinations of Democratic-Farm-Labor Legislators and Spouses in Minnesota

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney and Duff Release Statements on Assassinations and Attempted Assassinations of Democratic-Farm-Labor Legislators and Spouses in Minnesota

HARTFORD – Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) issued the following statements today in response to the assassinations of Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark as well as the attempted assassinations of Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette.

“We are deeply shocked and heartbroken by the horrifying assassinations of former Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well as the attempted murders of Democratic–Farmer–Labor Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette,” said Senate President Martin Looney. “As Board President of the State Legislative Leaders Foundation, I know the deep commitment Melissa brought to public service as a former leader of the House of Representatives in Minnesota. Unfortunately, we have also learned the risks our colleagues increasingly face simply for doing their jobs. This appalling act of violence is an attack on democracy itself and has shaken legislative bodies across our country to their core. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of Representative Hortman and Mark, and I pray for State Senator Hoffman and his wife as they recover. We must meet this moment with renewed resolve to protect public servants and reject political violence and the vile rhetoric that leads to these actions.”

“Melissa was a passionate leader and friend whom I had the privilege to travel and serve with through the National Conference of State Legislatures,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “Her loss, along with her husband’s, is tragically unfathomable. She was thoughtful, courageous, dedicated, and represented the best of public service. My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families and with Senator Hoffman and his wife as they recover. This tragedy reminds us that threats to our democracy are real, and that we must stand united against political violence and the forces that perpetuate it.”

SENATOR OSTEN WELCOMES $100,000 STATE GRANT FOR REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN AT FORMER NORWICH STATE HOSPITAL

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR OSTEN WELCOMES $100,000 STATE GRANT FOR REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN AT FORMER NORWICH STATE HOSPITAL

 

NORWICH – State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) today welcomed a $100,000 state grant to help complete a remedial action plan for removing hazardous materials at the former 50-acre Norwich State Hospital site in Norwich.

“When you combine today’s $100,000 grant with the $250,000 in Community Investment Fund money that we got back in March, I think it’s fair to say that Norwich is well on its way to redeveloping not just a valuable parcel of unused, abandoned space, but to creating a new gateway to the entire city on the south side of town,” said Sen. Osten. “The impact of this grant and this development is huge when you considerate it in the context the Preston Riverwalk development, the potential rehabilitation of the waste to energy plant, and the work to be done on the Mohegan-Pequot Bridge.”

Norwich received a $100,000 state grant for the Norwich Community Development Corporation (NCDC) for the assessment of the former Norwich State Hospital, located at 628 and 705 Laurel Hill Road. The grant will enable the NCDC to complete a Phase III ESA, along with a conceptual remedial action plan, structural assessment, hazardous building materials assessment, and estimates of remediation, abatement, and cleanup costs. The NCDC is looking to renovate the property in concert with the neighboring Preston Riverwalk Development.

The Norwich grant is just one of the $18.8 million in state grants that Governor Ned Lamont announced today that will be used for the assessment and remediation of 227 acres of contaminated land across Connecticut. The funding will support 23 properties in 19 towns and cities, helping cover the costs of cleaning up these parcels so they can be redeveloped and returned to productive use

The grants are being released through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Brownfield Remediation and Development Program. This round of funding is projected to attract $218 million in private investment and facilitate the creation of 450 housing units.

“Old, polluted, blighted properties that have sat vacant for decades do nothing to stimulate our economy, grow jobs, and support housing growth,” Governor Lamont said. “With these grants, we are partnering with towns and developers to take unused, lifeless properties and bring them back from the dead, rejuvenating land that can be used for so much more and can bring value back to these neighborhoods.”