Author: Devin James

Senators Looney, Duff Release Statement Honoring Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier as He Is Laid to Rest

Posted on by Devin James

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

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

Posted on by Devin James

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Devin James

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Devin James
Senator Bob Duff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud Over $7 Million for Norwalk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senators Looney, Duff Respond to Reckless Statement from Republican Leaders on Trump Verdict

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney, Duff Respond to Reckless Statement from Republican Leaders on Trump Verdict
“Republican legislative leaders side with election deniers and play into Trump’s dangerous accusation that the process is rigged.”
HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff responded to the statement released by Senate Republican Leader Stephen Harding and House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora on the unanimous verdict against Donald Trump:

“Let’s be clear about what happened. Law enforcement professionals conducted this investigation. Career prosecutors brought the indictment. A jury of Donald Trump’s peers, selected with input from him and his lawyers, convicted the former President.

“A unanimous verdict on 34 felony counts means that the jury made 408 separate decisions to find Donald Trump guilty. There was not even one count where Trump had a single juror dissent in his favor.

“Yesterday’s statement by the highest ranking Republicans in the Connecticut General Assembly was reckless and seeks to undermine confidence in our judicial system. We are troubled to see Republican legislative leaders side with election deniers and play into Trump’s dangerous accusation that the process is rigged.

“Donald Trump is rightfully a convicted felon. Any statement to the contrary is a dangerous attack on our Constitution and the principles of American democracy. No one is above the law and we were all better off when that was something both political parties believed in.

“Democrats remain focused on continuing to fight for our constituents – more jobs, stronger economy, lower prices and a better life for those we serve. We will always put the people of Connecticut before the political interests of one man.”
Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov
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Senator Herron Keyon Gaston Statement on the Death of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Herron Keyon Gaston Statement on the Death of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier

Senator Herron Keyon Gaston, co-chairman of the Public Safety and Security Committee, released the following statement Thursday on the death of Connecticut State Police Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier:

“Today’s tragic loss of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect us,” Senator Herron Keyon Gaston, D-Bridgeport, said. “As co-chairman of the legislature’s Public Safety and Security Committee, I offer my deepest condolences to the trooper’s family and colleagues. This terrible incident should serve as a reminder to all of us to exercise care and responsibility behind the wheel in order to protect ourselves, other drivers and the lives of the dedicated men and women who keep us safe.”

Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651

Sen. Slap Applauds Final Approval of Expanded Student Loan Repayment Assistance

Posted on by Devin James
Senator Derek Slap

Sen. Slap Applauds Final Approval of Expanded Student Loan Repayment Assistance

Senate Chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, State Senator Derek Slap applauds final approval of legislation that incentivizes employers to provide student loan repayment assistance to their employees through tax credits. Senator Slap lead passage of the legislation through the Senate earlier this month and Governor Lamont signed the legislation this week.

“As Senate Chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, I am so pleased to see final approval of this proposal that expands eligibility for a student loan repayment program, both easing the burden of student loans and bolstering our workforce development,” said Sen. Slap. “I thank Governor Lamont for his leadership and to my colleagues in the General Assembly for supporting actionable legislation to help better the lives of young people in Connecticut.”

Public Act 24-52 is an expansion of legislation passed in 2019 which incentivized employers to provide student loan repayment assistance to qualifying employees. The legislation passed in 2019 was limited to only borrowers with loans through Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA). The legislation Governor Lamont signed this week expands eligibility to borrowers of any student loan servicer.

Additionally, this legislation requires CHESLA to establish a High Priority Occupation Loan Subsidy Program to subsidize interest rates on loans it issues to eligible individuals employed in high priority occupations, bolstering workforce development.

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Contact: Garnet McLaughlin
860-304-2319
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STATE SENATOR JAMES MARONEY JOINS MILFORD SCHOOL LEADERS TO DISCUSS SCHOOL HVAC IMPROVEMENTS, STATE GRANTS

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

STATE SENATOR JAMES MARONEY JOINS MILFORD SCHOOL LEADERS TO DISCUSS SCHOOL HVAC IMPROVEMENTS, STATE GRANTS
On Wednesday, State Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) joined Milford Public Schools leaders including Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna Cutaia, Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations Sean Brennan, Director of Facilities Patrick Bradbury and Joseph A. Foran High School Principal Max Berkowitz at Foran High School to discuss significant state funding that will lead to HVAC and air quality improvements in the school.

Earlier this month, the state Department of Administrative Services announced a round of $122 million in released funds in the second round of the state’s Indoor Air Quality Grants Program, which was created by legislators in 2022 to invest in air quality improvements in schools statewide, benefitting school community health and education. In that allocation, Milford Public Schools received just under $360,000; approximately $299,000 will go toward the replacement of heating and cooling system components at Joseph A. Foran High School, with another $60,000 supporting equipment replacements at the Academy in Milford.

“Providing local schools with opportunities and support to improve their heating, cooling and air filtration equipment means we can provide students and staff with cleaner and healthier environments for education,” said Sen. Maroney. “It’s rewarding to know that this program continues to pay dividends in supporting local schools and supporting improved ventilation and I’m excited to see these improvements make a real difference in years to come.”

“We are grateful to Senator Maroney and the contingent of legislators in Hartford for awarding the funding from the Indoor Air Quality Grant to the Milford Public Schools,” said Superintendent Cutaia. “We operate 14 schools in Milford, but it’s hard to believe that our ‘newest’ one was built 50 years ago. While we do an amazing job keeping our buildings in good shape, it’s no secret it comes with great cost. Receiving this grant will certainly help us — and the taxpayers of Milford — as we continue to keep our infrastructure upgrades on track.”

Milford’s allocations cover parts of the work needed; Milford will conduct just under $800,000 of total replacement of heating and cooling systems. School leaders applied to receive the funding in 2023.
The Indoor Air Quality Grants Program is funded with state bonding and federal Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Funds, with a total of $244 million available to schools statewide.
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