Month: December 2025

Sen. Slap Condemns Threat on West Hartford Synagogue

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Slap Condemns Threat on West Hartford Synagogue

Today, State Senator Derek Slap condemned a bomb-threat received by Congregation Beth Israel on Farmington Avenue in West Hartford. Synagogues in Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont received a non-specific bomb threat via email. West Hartford Police responded immediately to the threat, and the Congregation has declared there is no substantiated threat at this time.

“This is yet another example of a vile rise in anti-Semitism across the globe as we saw in Australia last week, and right here in our backyard. For this attack to happen at all, let alone during Hanukkah, is extremely disturbing. I stand firmly with our Jewish neighbors and friends, and I hope their celebration remains a reminder of the strength of community, and the triumph of light over darkness. These types of threats are the latest example of why the nonprofit security grant program I created in 2019 is so important and we must continue to invest in it.”

In 2019, Sen. Slap and State Senator Saud Anwar introduced a bill which created the grant program through which this funding will be dispersed through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). In the 2025 legislation session, Senators Slap and Anwar secured an additional $10 million for the program, bringing the state investment to $20 million. This program was created amid a rise of hate crimes and violent incidents in houses of worship in recent years and today, applications continue to flood the program.

CT-NSGP provides reimbursement for nonprofits, including houses of worship, that have undergone security enhancements. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations that are at heightened risk of being the target of a terrorist attack, hate crime, or violent act.

To learn more or apply, visit here.

Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

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Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), and Senator Paul Honig (D-Harwinton) strongly denounced the Department of Homeland Security’s recent U.S. Coast Guard policy revision that removed the explicit designation of swastikas and nooses as “hate symbols” and instead labeled these symbols as “potentially divisive.”

“Swastikas and nooses are unmistakable representations of hatred, terror, and historical atrocity,” said Senate President Looney. “The decision to soften their classification is a political choice and part of a disturbing pattern of minimizing the significance of the symbols of hatred to appease extremists by President Trump. Coast Guard members and the public deserve leadership that stands clearly and unequivocally against hate, especially as antisemitism and racially motivated violence rise across the country.”

“An administration that thinks a swastika and a noose are only potentially divisive shows the rot of hatred that infests the highest levels of the Trump administration,” said Senate Majority Leader Duff. “Connecticut rejects hate and the violence it enables and stands with service members who deserve clear moral leadership from Republicans in Washington.”

“Rebranding symbols of lynching and genocide as merely ‘divisive’ is despicable,” said Senator Marx. “I wish the Trump administration would spend more time supporting our men and women serving our country instead of enabling hate that endangers them and their families.”

“I struggle to understand what message the Department of Homeland Security sought to send when it went out of its way to normalize explicit hate symbols like nooses and swastikas,” Senator Honig said. “This change helps no one and addresses no legitimate concern. I’ve heard no rational defense of this policy, not in normal times and certainly not amid surging antisemitism and the recent mass murder at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. We must be better than this, and I call on the administration to immediately rescind this directive and prioritize the safety and dignity of all Americans.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

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Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), and Senator Paul Honig (D-Harwinton) strongly denounced the Department of Homeland Security’s recent U.S. Coast Guard policy revision that removed the explicit designation of swastikas and nooses as “hate symbols” and instead labeled these symbols as “potentially divisive.”

“Swastikas and nooses are unmistakable representations of hatred, terror, and historical atrocity,” said Senate President Looney. “The decision to soften their classification is a political choice and part of a disturbing pattern of minimizing the significance of the symbols of hatred to appease extremists by President Trump. Coast Guard members and the public deserve leadership that stands clearly and unequivocally against hate, especially as antisemitism and racially motivated violence rise across the country.”

“An administration that thinks a swastika and a noose are only potentially divisive shows the rot of hatred that infests the highest levels of the Trump administration,” said Senate Majority Leader Duff. “Connecticut rejects hate and the violence it enables and stands with service members who deserve clear moral leadership from Republicans in Washington.”

“Rebranding symbols of lynching and genocide as merely ‘divisive’ is despicable,” said Senator Marx. “I wish the Trump administration would spend more time supporting our men and women serving our country instead of enabling hate that endangers them and their families.”

“I struggle to understand what message the Department of Homeland Security sought to send when it went out of its way to normalize explicit hate symbols like nooses and swastikas,” Senator Honig said. “This change helps no one and addresses no legitimate concern. I’ve heard no rational defense of this policy, not in normal times and certainly not amid surging antisemitism and the recent mass murder at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. We must be better than this, and I call on the administration to immediately rescind this directive and prioritize the safety and dignity of all Americans.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud New State Bonding for Major Infrastructure and Housing Investments

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

Sen. Duff and Norwalk State Delegation Applaud New State Bonding for Major Infrastructure and Housing Investments

HARTFORD – Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and the Norwalk state legislative delegation celebrated the approval of significant state bonding for Norwalk that will strengthen mobility, improve pedestrian safety, revitalize key commercial corridors, and support senior housing. The funding was adopted at today’s meeting of the State Bond Commission.

The State Bond Commission approved the following allocations for Norwalk:

  • Lexington Avenue Mobility Upgrades – $2.5 million
    This investment will redesign Lexington Avenue to improve traffic flow, enhance safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, and support ongoing neighborhood revitalization efforts. This funding was recently approved in an October meeting of the Community Investment Fund and received final approval by the State Bond Commission today.
  • Washington Street Streetscape – $1 million
    Funding will support streetscape improvements—including lighting, sidewalks, and pedestrian enhancements—on one of Norwalk’s most vibrant mixed-use corridors in South Norwalk. This funding was also recently approved in an October meeting of the Community Investment Fund and received final approval by the State Bond Commission today.
  • Sidewalk construction along Winfield Street – $3 million
  • Sidewalks on Silvermine Avenue between Bartlett Avenue and New Canaan Avenue – $1.2 million
  • Norwalk Senior Housing Project at 79 South Main Street & 6–8 Chestnut Street – $180,000
    This grant supports continued planning and development of affordable senior housing in South Norwalk, ensuring older residents can stay in the community they call home.

“This bond agenda delivers real, practical investments that make Norwalk safer, more walkable, and more inclusive,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “From major corridor upgrades and sidewalk expansions to planning support for senior housing, this funding reflects our shared priority of investing in infrastructure that improves everyday life and positions Norwalk for continued growth. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for believing in Norwalk and helping us move these projects forward.”

“I am grateful that this critical funding for housing infrastructure and sidewalks was approved,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “I heard from many constituents about their concerns and the urgent need for improvements to the Silvermine sidewalks, and I am proud to help deliver these much-needed upgrades. These investments will strengthen our neighborhoods, improve safety and accessibility, and better connect residents to vital resources and opportunities. By laying the groundwork for long-term stability and economic growth, we are enhancing the overall quality of life in our community.”

“This has been a great year for grant funding for Norwalk, and I am glad that we can celebrate another round of state funding for the City before 2025 comes to a close,” said Rep. Johnson. “These improvements will enable Norwalk to go far in our ongoing work to modernize our City’s infrastructure, making our community more welcoming and safer for current residents and visitors alike. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for funding these vital projects.”

“Once completed, these projects will greatly benefit individuals who travel by foot, as well as older residents, two groups that are often overlooked,” said Rep. Roberts. “Thank you again to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for your consideration.”

“I’m proud to serve as part of Norwalk’s state legislative delegation and to represent the 140th District, including much of South Norwalk,” said Rep. Simms. “These investments are about improving everyday life – making our streets safer, strengthening walkability, and supporting seniors who want to remain in the community they call home. This funding reflects a shared commitment to smart infrastructure investments that help Norwalk grow in a way that is inclusive, practical, and built to last.”

“I want to thank Governor Lamont, Senator Duff and the Bond Commission for continuing to prioritize Norwalk residents’ quality of life through these critical infrastructure investments,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made in building an integrated, safe, and accessible mobility network while strengthening Norwalk’s infrastructure in partnership with the State. Funding for sidewalks on Winfield Street and Silvermine Avenue, mobility upgrades on Lexington Avenue, streetscape improvements on Washington Street, and more affordable housing for our seniors will help Norwalk continue to increase livability, safety and affordability for our residents.”

“We are incredibly excited and grateful for Senator Duff’s leadership in securing these critical state investments for Norwalk,” said Jim Travers, Norwalk Director of Transportation, Mobility, and Parking. “These projects will significantly improve safety, accessibility, and mobility for people of all ages and abilities—whether they are walking, biking, taking transit, or driving. The upgrades to Lexington Avenue, Winfield Street, and Silvermine Avenue directly advance Norwalk’s Complete Streets legislation by creating safer, more connected corridors that support our residents, local businesses, and neighborhoods. This funding allows us to continue building a transportation network that reflects our community’s values and prioritizes safety for everyone.”

Stamford Delegation Welcomes $2 Million State Grant for Hatchfield Park Improvements

Posted on by Devin James

Stamford Delegation Welcomes $2 Million State Grant for Hatchfield Park Improvements

 

STAMFORD, CT – Members of Stamford’s legislative delegation welcomed the State Bond Commission’s Thursday approval of $2 million in state funding for essential improvements to Stamford’s Hatchfield Park.

The park will receive comprehensive renovations including accessibility upgrades, rehabilitated facilities, improved pathways, and enhanced recreational spaces. The funding supports the city’s broader efforts to revitalize neighborhood parks and expand programming for residents of all ages.

“Hatchfield Park has been the heart of the neighborhood for West Side residents for generations. I remember it being a safe place where children and teenagers gathered for all sorts of activities, but when I visit today I see playground surfaces that have become tripping hazards for our kids, a basketball court where grass pokes through cracked pavement, and paint flaking off rusted equipment,” Senator Pat Billie Miller, D-Stamford, said. “Our families deserve better and this grant will help transform Hatchfield into a safe, welcoming space with ADA-compliant pathways, a rehabilitated pavilion, and modern amenities that work for everyone. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for the investment in this neighborhood space where our children play and our families gather.”

“As House Chair of the Children’s Committee, I have a responsibility to ensure that our policies and investments support the health, safety, and development of children,” Representative Corey Paris, D-Stamford, said. “Playgrounds are essential community spaces that promote physical activity, learning, and social connection. Hatchfield Park has served Stamford residents for decades, and this funding will ensure it continues to be a safe and vibrant resource for families on the city’s West Side. I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving these funds to strengthen this important community asset.”

“Our local parks serve a vital purpose for our communities, providing outdoor recreation and fresh air while also bringing people together,” Senator Ceci Maher, D-Wilton, said. “If the resources they offer fade and degrade, they potentially can fall into disrepair. I’m encouraged these funds will make certain that Hatchfield Park remains a vibrant, well-loved space for Stamford residents to enjoy.”

“Investing in Hatchfield Park means investing in our community,” Representative Matt Blumenthal, D-Stamford, said. “These comprehensive renovations will ensure that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can fully enjoy this shared public space for years to come.”

“Hatchfield Park has played a significant role in the Stamford community for decades, as a place for the neighborhood for all kinds of activities,” said Representative Eilish Collins Main, D-Stamford. “These critical renovations will allow Hatchfield Park to continue to thrive as a place for Stamford residents to build a community and connect with each other.”

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $900k for Trumbull Veterans Center Project

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

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Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $900k for Trumbull Veterans Center Project

TRUMBULL – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox applauded the approval of $900,000 for the Trumbull Veterans and First Responder Center project. The State Bond Commission approved the funding unanimously on Thursday.

The project is in Phase 2 and the building committee worked together with Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox to apply for this supplemental state funding, as the project has struggled with the rising cost of construction.

Once completed, the center will be a 5,500 square-foot multi-use facility for Trumbull and the region’s veterans, first responders, small businesses, civic groups and residents. Professional staff will offer access to job training and career development, healthcare and more. The facility will be available for use by local organizations, and for rent for social functions like weddings, showers and birthdays, which will provide a stream of income to fund operational expenses and programs.

“This funding is a great example of a strong state and local partnership and I’m proud that we were able to secure this funding to better support the brave men and women who served our country,” said Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox. “I am grateful to First Selectwoman Tesoro and Chairman Ray Baldwin for their vision and leadership in getting this tremendous project underway, and to the State Bond Commission for approving these critical funds.”

“I want to thank Senator Gadkar Wilcox for her leadership in securing this critical supplemental funding. I also thank Representative Keitt who was a strong advocate for these funds and the entire delegation. With the continued efforts of our Building committee and community we hope to go to vertical construction in the spring,” said Trumbull First Selectwoman Vicki Tesoro.

“I very much appreciate the leadership of Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox in getting this done for us, with the support of Representatives Keitt and Rutigliano,” said Building Committee Chairman Raymond Baldwin Jr. “The Senator has embraced and championed this important project, and I also appreciate the Governor’s support and consideration. The State has been a strong partner to the Trumbull Veterans & First Responders Center and this project will help the center serve 30,000 veterans in the greater Trumbull area.”

Sen. Cohen, Reps. Comey, Rader Welcome $100k for Branford Food Pantry

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

Sen. Cohen, Reps. Comey, Rader Welcome $100k for Branford Food Pantry

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

BRANFORD – Today, State Senator Christine Cohen and State Representatives Robin Comey and Moira Rader welcomed $100,000 for the Branford Food Pantry. The state Bond Commission voted unanimously on Thursday to approve the funding.
 
Senator Cohen and Representatives Comey and Rader submitted requests to the Bond Commission for this funding. The funding will replace aging infrastructure at the Branford Food Pantry, specifically an aging conveyor belt which moves thousands of pounds of food into the Food Pantry everyday. The food pantry will also use these funds to upgrade their flooring to a commercial grade flooring for durability and to comply with health regulations.
 
The Branford Food Pantry provides groceries to over 200 families every week and provides critical support to Branford families in need:

  • More than 30% of Branford students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs
  • 1 in 6 residents struggle with food insecurity
  • 4,272 Branford households are struggling to make ends meet, 39% of all households
  • Branford is also the home to as many as 3,852 Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) families with an additional 874 families living in poverty.

 
“I am so pleased that the Bond Commission approved this vital funding that will help the Branford Food Pantry continue to support our families in need,” said Sen. Christine Cohen (D-Branford, Guilford, Madison, Killingworth, Durham, East Haven, North Branford, Middlefield). “Families everywhere are feeling the strain of higher prices, and the work of the Branford Food Pantry has never been so important. I’m grateful to Jaye and her team for their work, and to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for approving this funding.”
 
“The Branford Food Pantry plays a vital role in supporting families and seniors in our town and I’m proud to support this $100,000 bonding allocation. This investment reflects the strength of our partnership between state government and local organizations serving our most vulnerable residents. When we work together, we can deliver real, meaningful support to those who need it most,” said Rep. Robin Comey (D-Branford).
 
“Food insecurity is a real and growing challenge for many across our communities, including far too many right here in Branford,” said Rep. Moira Rader (D-Branford & Guilford). “This funding will help ensure that the Branford Food Pantry can continue to serve families with dignity, safety, and efficiency at a time when demand remains high. I’m grateful to the Bond Commission, Governor Lamont, and my legislative colleagues for supporting this investment, and to the dedicated staff and volunteers who show up every day to support our neighbors in need.” 
 
“Approval of this bond issue on behalf of the Branford Food Pantry means so much to us,” said Jaye Andrews, President of the Branford Food Pantry. “We are located on the basement level and each week we move thousands of pounds of food in and out of the Pantry as we serve over 200 Branford households struggling to make ends meet. This funding will enable us to replace our ancient conveyor system—our life line for moving so much food—with a safe and reliable conveyor. Additionally, we are able to make interior improvements which will provide a cleaner, healthier environment for our clients and the dozens of volunteers that make the Branford Food Pantry come to life. We are truly grateful to everyone who stood up for our 100% volunteer organization and our community to make this funding possible.”

 

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $3.8 MILLION STATE BOND COMMISSION INVESTMENT IN RENTSCHLER FIELD

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

Senator Anwar

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $3.8 MILLION STATE BOND COMMISSION INVESTMENT IN RENTSCHLER FIELD

Today, the East Hartford delegation of lawmakers including State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford, Manchester), State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) and State Representative Patrick Biggins (D-East Hartford, Manchester) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $3.8 million to be used for upgrades and improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.

The funds will be used to improve security, communications, television broadcast and audio-visual upgrades at the stadium and field. The site is the home stadium of the UConn Huskies football team, also host to events including international soccer games and concerts. It is owned by the state.

“The state’s continued investments in Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field will be directly beneficial for the University of Connecticut, East Hartford community and numerous football fans, whether they’re at the stadium or watching from home,” said Sen. Anwar. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their consideration.”

“I thank the Governor and the Bond Commission for approving funding for continued improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field,” said Majority Leader Rojas. “From hosting local, national, and international events to serving as the home of an undefeated UConn football season, The Rent in East Hartford is a point of pride for our state, and investing in modern upgrades ensures a safe, accessible, and first-class experience for fans and visitors alike.”

“We are grateful for the funds granted to finance critical upgrades and improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field,” said Rep. Genga. “These investments will support a wide range of enhancements, including strengthened security; upgraded communications systems; and modernized television broadcast capabilities. This support ensures the stadium can continue to serve the community safely, efficiently, and at a high standard.”

“Rentschler Field has become part of the fabric of East Hartford and Connecticut,” Rep. Biggins said. “The home to our beloved UConn Huskies football team has provided many memorable moments, including this season. We must ensure that the facility is in optimal condition for the football program and the many fans who visit. So, the upgrades and improvements are necessary and welcome. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving the funds to ensure The Rent stays on top of its game for many years to come.”

 
 

SEN. OSTEN WELCOMES STATE BONDING FOR NORWICH, PRESTON, LOCAL SCHOOLS AND THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Posted on by Devin James

SEN. OSTEN WELCOMES STATE BONDING FOR NORWICH, PRESTON, LOCAL SCHOOLS AND THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS

NORWICH – State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) today welcomed a variety of state bonding projects that will benefit not only eastern Connecticut, but will benefit towns and young people all across Connecticut. Each project is expected to be approved by the State Bond Commission when it meets tomorrow, Thursday, December 18 at 10 a.m. in Hartford.

Senator Osten welcomed $1 million for a state Department of Social Services customer service center to operate as a new opportunity center in Norwich, and $1.37 million for new refrigerant and chilled water piping, updated controls, and roof work the Uncas on Thames Campus at 401 West Thames Street in Norwich.

Sen. Osten also welcomed a $500,000 state grant for Special Olympics Connecticut to use for the construction of a new headquarters in Bristol, and $400,000 for upgrades to a wastewater pump station in Preston on the site of the former Norwich State Hospital. The pump station needs upgrades to prepare for the Mohegan Tribe’s Preston Riverwalk development, which is expected to increase demand on the town-owned sewer pumping station.

Sen. Osten also welcomed $30 million in new,  so-called “DRIP” funds – the state’s District Repair and Improvement Program – that was just created this year to provide funding to assist public schools with the costs of minor capital repairs, improvements and maintenance, and to reduce the need for more costly and extensive renovations in the future.

“This is nearly a billion-dollar bonding agenda, and I want everyone to notice that about half of it is being spent on cities and towns. The state is picking up the tab for projects all across Connecticut that local taxpayers would otherwise be paying higher property taxes for,” Sen. Osten said. “Each of these projects has its own unique and local impact. Norwich is getting better social services delivery. Preston and the region will see economic development due to an updated wastewater pumping station. The Connecticut Special Olympics won’t have to fundraise as long or as hard to build their new headquarters. And schoolchildren all across the state will have safer, more modern schools which their parents don’t have to pay more local property taxes to improve. This state funding is great news, especially in this economy and at this time of year.”

SENATE DEMOCRATS RELEASE STATEMENTS RESPONDING TO HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION INVESTMENT

Posted on by Devin James

SENATE DEMOCRATS RELEASE STATEMENTS RESPONDING TO HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION INVESTMENT

Today, Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), Senate Chair of the Housing Committee, and State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) released statements responding to Governor Lamont’s announced plan to invest at least $5.2 million into homelessness prevention and response services throughout Connecticut.

The funds, to be contributed through the Emergency State Response Reserve, will be used to support providers in the state receiving aid through the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Continuum of Care program. Funding for that program, a primary federal homelessness prevention and support effort, is currently paused, and the Trump administration recently announced plans to upend its funding allocations.

“Thousands of Connecticut residents risk homelessness due to sudden and arbitrary federal funding changes. I’m pleased our state is responding before people are directly impacted,” said Sen. Looney. “The Republican federal government is again abdicating its duty to protect Americans, this time by adopting a policy to increase the number of people living on the streets. Our state’s foresight will limit and forestall this new imposition of suffering.”

“In November, our state prepared an emergency response reserve for moments like this, where the Trump administration puts important funding in limbo, and Connecticut residents are left picking up the pieces,” said Sen. Duff. “With temperatures unseasonably low, we are saying loud and clear that people need homes, not to be living outside, braving the elements. The Republican policy to create more homeless people is incomprehensible. I’m grateful for our state’s work to back up our commitments to the people of Connecticut and to help those in harm’s way.”

“As a home care registered nurse, I care for many elderly residents who have lost their homes due to increasing rents,” said Sen. Marx. “If we don’t maintain the programs we have and protect our residents from proposed looming cuts from the Trump administration, this problem will become much more dire.”

“Everyone experiencing housing insecurity has a different story, which makes the need for the Continuum of Care – approaching the full spectrum of issues that can set people back – so important, and the Trump administration’s abdication of duty for that program so disheartening,” said Sen. Anwar. “It’s a relief to know Connecticut is taking direct action to preserve this vital program for so many in need.”