TOMORROW: Duff to Hold Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony

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Tomorrow: Sen. Duff, Democratic State Senators, and Mayor Smyth to Hold Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony

Tomorrow, Friday, June 19, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Gary Winfield (D-New Haven), Senator Pat Billie Miller (D-Stamford), Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton), Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (D-Trumbull), Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden), Norwalk Mayor Barbara Smyth, and other local officials and community members will be holding a Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony in Norwalk. The event will commemorate the day that marks the end of slavery in the United States and celebrate African American freedom and achievement.

WHEN: Friday, June 19, at 11 a.m.

WHERE: 50 Toilsome Avenue, Norwalk

WHO:

  • Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, Senator Gary Winfield, Senator Pat Billie Miller, Senator Ceci Maher, Senator Jorge Cabrera, Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, State Representative Kadeem Roberts, State Representative Lucy Dathan, and State Representative Jonathan Jacobson
  • Norwalk Mayor Barbara Smyth, Chief Walsh, Chief McCabe, Rev. Moreland, Rev. Curtis, and Rev. Burgess
  • Norwalk Common Council members Josh Goldstein, Richard Dellinger, and Jan Degenshein
  • Norwalk Board of Education members Howard White, Garrett Oliver, and Mary Ellen Ludwig-Flaherty

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

Senator Lesser to Stand with Tenants as they Announce Formation of New Union, File Complaints Against Landlord

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Senator Lesser to Stand with Tenants as they Announce Formation of New Union, File Complaints Against Landlord

Tomorrow, Thursday, June 18, state Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) will stand alongside tenants at an apartment complex in Middletown as they announce the formation of a new union and file complaints against the building’s landlord.

This new union is now a chapter of the statewide CT Tenants Union. They are the 6th building to form a union owned by the landlord, Alpha Capital Funds. Union #5 launched last week in Meriden.

WHAT:

Press conference to announce the formation of the 142 S Main Street Tenant Union followed by filing of complaints to the Middletown Fair Rent Commission.

WHEN:

Thursday, June 18 at 10:30 a.m.

WHERE:

142 S Main Street, Middletown, CT

WHO:

  • Senator Matthew Lesser
  • Tenants at 142 S Main Street
  • Representatives of the CT Tenants Union

New Britain Delegation Welcomes $788,210 in New Britain Transportation Grants

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New Britain Delegation Welcomes $788,210 in New Britain Transportation Grants

Today, the New Britain Delegation consisting of state Senator Rick Lopes and state Representatives Gary Turco, Dave DeFronzo, Manny Sanchez, and Iris Sanchez welcomed the state’s announcement that New Britain will receive a $788,210 grant to fund Vision Zero pedestrian traffic signal safety improvements.
 
The grants came from the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Community Connectivity Grant Program, which supports municipal infrastructure improvements with the intent of making town centers safer and more welcoming.
 
“This grant is a tremendous win for the residents of New Britain,” said Senator Lopes. “Our city has long needed investments in pedestrian safety infrastructure, and these traffic signal improvements will make our streets safer for walkers, bicyclists, and drivers. I am grateful to Governor Lamont for his continued commitment to Connecticut’s cities and for making investments like this.”
 
“I am a strong supporter of Vision Zero and the ongoing effort to make our roads safer for everyone, especially pedestrians and cyclists,” said Rep. Turco. “Since the pandemic, communities across Connecticut have seen troubling increases in reckless driving, serious injuries, and traffic fatalities. This grant represents a critical investment in public safety that will help New Britain implement proven strategies to reduce crashes and save lives. It also reflects the importance of strong partnerships between the state and our municipalities as we work together to build safer, more connected communities.”
 
“Pedestrian safety is of utmost importance in our communities, and our infrastructure must be reflected as much,” Rep. Sanchez said. “That’s why I am thrilled with the safety improvements set for the Vision Zero New Britain Traffic Signal. If we want to remain a thriving, vibrant community, we must ensure that streets and sidewalks are safe. This is great news. Many thanks to the CT Department of Transportation and Governor Lamont for approving the funds to make this happen.
 
“Pedestrian safety is of utmost importance in our communities, and our infrastructure must be reflected as much,” Rep. Manny Sanchez said. “That’s why I am thrilled with the safety improvements set for the Vision Zero New Britain Traffic Signal. If we want to remain a thriving, vibrant community, we must ensure that streets and sidewalks are safe. This is great news. Many thanks to the CT Department of Transportation and Governor Lamont for approving the funds to make this happen.”
 
 “This $788,210 investment will ensure residents can safely cross the street, use our sidewalks, and enjoy our roads,” said Rep. Dave DeFronzo. “We are committed to increasing pedestrian safety and making New Britain more walkable and accessible. Thank you to the Connecticut Department of Transportation and Governor Lamont for recognizing the importance of these critical safety improvements and delivering this funding for New Britain.”

 “This investment in pedestrian safety improvements is an important step toward making New Britain’s streets safer for all pedestrians and drivers,” said Rep. Iris Sanchez. “Upgrading traffic signals and pedestrian infrastructure will help prevent accidents and improve accessibility. I am grateful for Connecticut’s commitment to keeping our roads.”
 

Senator Anwar Issues Statement Following Confirmed Measles Case in Hartford County

Senator Anwar

Senator Anwar Issues Statement Following Confirmed Measles Case in Hartford County

“Today, the Connecticut Department of Public Health confirmed the state’s first measles case of 2026. It was an unvaccinated adult who recently returned from international travel.

“As a physician, I want to be clear: measles is preventable, and this case is a reminder of what happens when we let our guard down on vaccination. I urge anyone who is unsure whether their vaccinations are current to contact their doctor or local health department today. The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available across our state.

“Connecticut has maintained strong vaccination rates, and that is precisely why we have been one of the last states in New England to see a case this year. But no community is immune when measles is circulating nationally and internationally at the levels we are seeing right now.

“I will continue working closely with our public health officials to monitor the situation and ensure Connecticut families have the information they need to stay safe.”

State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), Senate Chair of the Public Health Committee, on a confirmed measles case by the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michelle Rappaport | Michelle.Rappaport@cga.ct.gov 

Senator Cohen Welcomes State Grant for Middlefield Pedestrian Safety Project

Senator Cohen Welcomes State Grant for Middlefield Pedestrian Safety Project

Sen. Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), Senate Chair of the Transportation Committee, today welcomed a $581,256 state grant to fund the Middlefield Municipal Campus Connections project, improving pedestrian safety and connectivity around the town’s municipal campus.

The funding comes through the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Community Connectivity Grant Program, announced today by Governor Ned Lamont and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

“I am so pleased that Middlefield is receiving this investment. Our town centers are the heart of our communities, and when we make them safer and more welcoming for pedestrians and bicyclists, we are investing in the quality of life of every resident who lives there,” Senator Cohen said. “I am grateful to Governor Lamont and Commissioner Eucalitto for their ongoing support of projects like this one across our district.”

Since the program launched in 2019, 172 grants totaling more than $84 million have been invested in Connecticut communities.

Governor Lamont highlighted the broader impact of the program across Connecticut.

“This program cuts red tape and accelerates local infrastructure projects that make a real difference in people’s daily lives,” Governor Lamont said. “Across Connecticut with the support of this state program, communities are building accessible sidewalks, new bicycle connections, and stronger links to jobs, schools, and local businesses.”

Senator Christine Cohen represents the 12th Senate District covering Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Madison, Killingworth, Durham, Middlefield, and North Branford.

Senator Hochadel Welcomes $581,256 State Grant for Middlefield Pedestrian Safety Project

Senator Hochadel

Senator Hochadel Welcomes $581,256 State Grant for Middlefield Pedestrian Safety Project

Sen. Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden) on Friday welcomed a $581,256 state grant to fund the Middlefield Municipal Campus Connections project, improving pedestrian safety and connectivity around the town’s municipal campus.

The funding comes through the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Community Connectivity Grant Program, announced today by Governor Ned Lamont and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

“Middlefield is a small, tight-knit community, and investments in how residents move through that community matter,” Senator Hochadel said. “Safer connections around the municipal campus make daily life better for the people who live there, and that’s what this program delivers. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and Commissioner Eucalitto for making sure Middlefield was part of this investment.”

Since the program launched in 2019, 172 grants totaling more than $84 million have been invested in Connecticut communities.

Governor Lamont highlighted the broader impact of the program across Connecticut.

“This program cuts red tape and accelerates local infrastructure projects that make a real difference in people’s daily lives,” Governor Lamont said. “Across Connecticut with the support of this state program, communities are building accessible sidewalks, new bicycle connections, and stronger links to jobs, schools, and local businesses.”

Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov 

Senator Gadkar-Wilcox Among Five Indian American Achievers to Be Recognized

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Senator Gadkar-Wilcox Among Five Indian American Achievers to Be Recognized

On Saturday, June 13, state Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (D-Bridgeport) will be one of five Indian American achievers selected to be honored at the 20th Anniversary of the Connecticut Chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin.

The event, hosted by the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)-Connecticut Chapter, will take place at the Water’s Edge Banquet Hall in Darien at 6 p.m. The 20th Anniversary Celebration and Annual Awards Banquet will recognize Indian Americans from across Connecticut who have distinguished themselves through professional achievement and service to their communities and the nation. Several Connecticut lawmakers are expected to attend.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by GOPIO-Connecticut alongside so many distinguished members of our Indian American community,” said Senator Gadkar-Wilcox. “The contributions of Indian Americans to Connecticut are immeasurable, and I am grateful to be part of a community that continues to make our state stronger.”

Senator Gadkar-Wilcox was elected as the first Indian American State Senator in Connecticut and has dedicated herself to championing the needs of underrepresented communities, advancing equity in education and healthcare, and serving as a trailblazer for future generations of Indian Americans in public service.

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $142,640 IN NEW LONDON TRANSPORTATION GRANTS

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SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $142,640 IN NEW LONDON TRANSPORTATION GRANTS

June 12, 2026
 
State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) today welcomed the state’s announcement that New London will receive a $142,640 grant to improve local pedestrian crossings.

The grants came from the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Community Connectivity Grant Program, which supports municipal infrastructure improvements with the intent of making town centers safer and more welcoming.

“This grant will make a significant difference in making New London more accessible and walkable for all, improving local pedestrian safety,” said Sen. Marx. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and state leaders for investing in our community.”

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

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $2.33 MILLION IN TRANSPORTATION GRANTS TO THE 33RD DISTRICT

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SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $2.33 MILLION IN TRANSPORTATION GRANTS TO THE 33RD DISTRICT


State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) today welcomed the state’s announcement that Deep River, Essex and Portland will receive a combined $2.33 million in grants to improve local transportation resources.

The grants came from the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Community Connectivity Grant Program, which supports municipal infrastructure improvements with the intent of making town centers safer and more welcoming.

“These grants will play a significant role in improving key downtown and town centers, making them more accessible and spurring more local walkability,” said Sen. Needleman. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and state leaders for their continued investments in our region.”

Grants received in the 33rd District include:
  • Deep River will receive $846,400 for pedestrian enhancements in the downtown area
  • Essex will receive $846,400 for sidewalk connections in Ivoryton Village
  • Portland will receive $634,800 for accessibility upgrades to schools on High Street
State Senator Norm Needleman

Looney, Duff to Senate MAGA Caucus: Do You Love the Inflation Too?

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Looney & Duff to Senate MAGA Caucus: Do You Love the Inflation Too?

“Donald Trump just told the American people, out loud, that he loves the inflation that is crushing them. Gas is up 23.5% year over year. Groceries are up. Electricity is up. Clothing is up. This is what happens when you start a war nobody wanted, impose tariffs a court had to throw out, and then brag about it. Connecticut families are not loving any of this.

“We’d like to know if Senate Republican Leader Stephen Harding, Senator Fazio, and the rest of the Senate MAGA caucus love the inflation too. They voted against a Democratic budget that cut costs for Connecticut families. They’ve stayed silent while the Trump regime has made everything more expensive. Now their president has given them a slogan. Do they stand with him, or do they stand with the people they represent?”

-Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), in response to President Trump’s comments that he “loves the inflation” as inflation surpassed 4% for the first time in three years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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