Author: Devin James

CONNECTICUT SENATE DEMOCRATS URGE FEDERAL PASSAGE OF ‘NO MASKS FOR ICE’ LEGISLATION

Posted on by Devin James

CONNECTICUT SENATE DEMOCRATS URGE FEDERAL PASSAGE OF ‘NO MASKS FOR ICE’ LEGISLATION

HARTFORD – Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus today wrote Connecticut’s Congressional delegation (letter attached) urging them to support the passage of the “No Masks For Ice Act,” a federal bill introduced in June by Congresswoman Nydia M. Velazquez (D-N.Y.) that would  prohibit Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from wearing facial coverings during their interactions with the public, and require them to wear clothing displaying their name and affiliation with ICE.

Senate Democrats cited recent examples of federal ICE agents carrying out raids in New Haven and Danbury while wearing facial coverings, in plain clothes, and driving unmarked vehicles. Senate Democrats noted that such actions hinder police accountability, create fear and confusion among the public, foster intimidation, and are antithetical to democracy.

“That is the hallmark of an authoritarian government, not a democracy … In authoritarian countries like Venezuela, Brazil, Iran and Nicaragua, law enforcement officers routinely cover their faces. Order established through violence, intimidation and force is not democratic, does not result in justice, and endangers the safety of the entire nation,” Senate Democrats wrote. “It is of the utmost importance to our democracy, to the future of this country, and to the welfare of our citizens that this unprecedented use of intimidation tactics be severely curtailed immediately.”

“Mask-wearing by law enforcement suggests vigilantism and a fear of accountability that mostly occurs in nations not fully committed to democracy or the protection of individual rights such as those embodied in our Bill of Rights – the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution,” said Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven).

“It’s important at this moment in time that we all stand up for American rights and American values. I can only recall reading about this type of masked, anonymous activity in history books, and it usually occurred in other countries. Unfortunately, it’s now here in America,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “I hope this letter gives others the courage to speak up and demand the same.”

“Seeing masked men grabbing people on our streets is very terrorizing – not just for the people being detained, but for the general public as well. It’s reminiscent of the Gestapo in Nazi Germany,” said state Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury). “In my opinion, Congress cannot pass this bill soon enough.”

Republican Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) today called for the U.S. House of Representatives to recess early for the summer beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, July 23, though the House is expected to reconvene on September 2.

CONNECTICUT SENATE DEMOCRATS URGE FEDERAL PASSAGE OF ‘NO MASKS FOR ICE’ LEGISLATION

Posted on by Devin James

CONNECTICUT SENATE DEMOCRATS URGE FEDERAL PASSAGE OF ‘NO MASKS FOR ICE’ LEGISLATION

HARTFORD – Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus today wrote Connecticut’s Congressional delegation (letter attached) urging them to support the passage of the “No Masks For Ice Act,” a federal bill introduced in June by Congresswoman Nydia M. Velazquez (D-N.Y.) that would  prohibit Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from wearing facial coverings during their interactions with the public, and require them to wear clothing displaying their name and affiliation with ICE.

Senate Democrats cited recent examples of federal ICE agents carrying out raids in New Haven and Danbury while wearing facial coverings, in plain clothes, and driving unmarked vehicles. Senate Democrats noted that such actions hinder police accountability, create fear and confusion among the public, foster intimidation, and are antithetical to democracy.

“That is the hallmark of an authoritarian government, not a democracy … In authoritarian countries like Venezuela, Brazil, Iran and Nicaragua, law enforcement officers routinely cover their faces. Order established through violence, intimidation and force is not democratic, does not result in justice, and endangers the safety of the entire nation,” Senate Democrats wrote. “It is of the utmost importance to our democracy, to the future of this country, and to the welfare of our citizens that this unprecedented use of intimidation tactics be severely curtailed immediately.”

“Mask-wearing by law enforcement suggests vigilantism and a fear of accountability that mostly occurs in nations not fully committed to democracy or the protection of individual rights such as those embodied in our Bill of Rights – the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution,” said Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven).

“It’s important at this moment in time that we all stand up for American rights and American values. I can only recall reading about this type of masked, anonymous activity in history books, and it usually occurred in other countries. Unfortunately, it’s now here in America,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “I hope this letter gives others the courage to speak up and demand the same.”

“Seeing masked men grabbing people on our streets is very terrorizing – not just for the people being detained, but for the general public as well. It’s reminiscent of the Gestapo in Nazi Germany,” said state Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury). “In my opinion, Congress cannot pass this bill soon enough.”

Republican Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) today called for the U.S. House of Representatives to recess early for the summer beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, July 23, though the House is expected to reconvene on September 2.

Sen. Lesser, Rep. Gilchrest Condemn Federal Ruling Striking Down Protections for those with Medical Debt

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Lesser, Rep. Gilchrest Condemn Federal Ruling Striking Down Protections for those with Medical Debt

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Matt Lesser and State Representative Jillian Gilchrest, co-chairs of the Human Services Committee, condemn a ruling by a federal judge that strikes down a Biden-era ruling that prohibits medical debt from being considered on a credit report. The rule made by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in early January 2025 incorporated language from a Connecticut law passed by Sen. Lesser and Rep. Gilchrest in May 2024. U.S. District Court of Texas’ Eastern District Judge Sean Jordan, appointed by President Trump, struck down the rule this week.

Despite the federal ruling, Connecticut residents are still protected by the law passed by the Connecticut General Assembly.

“Once again, a Trump-appointed judge has put the interests of medical debt collectors ahead of the interests of the American people,” said Sen. Matt Lesser (D-Middletown). “This at the same time that President Trump has blown up the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), which was designed to protect the American people from scam artists and financial predators, slashed the Medicaid program and food stamps, and dramatically increased the cost of borrowing for anyone with student loans. The good news is that Connecticut residents are protected from this specific ruling, thanks to 2024’s Senate Bill 395. I was proud to champion this legislation and lead bipartisan passage in the Senate which helped the CFPB build the case for their national rule.”

“In May 2024, our state legislature passed, and the Governor signed, a bill to prohibit medical debt from being reported on someone’s credit score,” said Rep. Jillian Gilchrest (D-West Hartford). “I am so relieved that we established this important policy in Connecticut. The research shows that medical debt is not a good indicator of whether or not someone will default on a loan, and yet, a credit score can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to rent or buy a home, purchase a car, and many other major financial decisions. It is a shame, but not at all surprising, that the U.S. District Court of Texas’ Eastern District would cancel a Biden policy that mirrors Connecticut’s law for all Americans, putting their credit unnecessarily in jeopardy at a time when medical costs continue to rise. In Connecticut, our residents remain protected.”

Senator Honig Welcomes $3.5 Million Investment in Torrington Roads

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Honig Welcomes $3.5 Million Investment in Torrington Roads

Senator Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, welcomed a Wednesday announcement that the Connecticut Department of Transportation had awarded $3,565,408 to the City of Torrington for the ongoing rehabilitation of Migeon Avenue, one of 17 projects funded during the past year through the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP).

“Anyone who’s driven on Migeon Avenue knows how badly this road needed repairs. Its potholes have been tough on vehicles and frustrating for drivers. It’s great to see this project move forward with new sidewalks to make pedestrians safer,” Senator Honig said. “Although road construction is always a hassle, these short-term disruptions are far outweighed by the relief this $3.5 million grant provides to local taxpayers. This funding allows Torrington to make necessary improvements without asking the community to shoulder the entire cost of the project. I’m grateful to the Connecticut Department of Transportation for this investment in Torrington.”

The Migeon Avenue Rehabilitation Project began on June 16 and sections of the road were expected to be closed on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. for around six weeks. Visit Torrington’s website for more information on this project.

The LOTCIP program provides state funds in lieu of federal dollars, allowing towns to complete infrastructure improvements without navigating complex federal requirements. Since 2013, LOTCIP has awarded nearly $408 million for nearly 190 local projects across Connecticut.

“LOTCIP is delivering state funds to projects that make a difference in local communities. By taking on the burden of dealing with federal red tape, CTDOT helps municipalities deliver important projects more efficiently and quickly,” Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. “Over the last 12 years, this program has grown in popularity and success, which is a testament to state and local governments working together. The CTDOT team looks forward to continuing this work in collaboration with Connecticut’s towns, cities, and Councils of Government.”

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $1.87 MILLION IN CLINTON, COLCHESTER STATE TRANSPORTATION FUNDING SUPPORT

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $1.87 MILLION IN CLINTON, COLCHESTER STATE TRANSPORTATION FUNDING SUPPORT

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) welcomed the announcement that Clinton and Colchester were awarded $1,873,882 in transportation funds through the Connecticut Department of Transportation to support sidewalk and streetscape improvements this past year.

This $1.87 million allocation comes as part of a $57.3 million release of funds for 17 projects across the state through the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program, which has operated since 2013 to provide state support to municipalities for local infrastructure projects.

In Clinton, $805,686 will support improvements to sidewalks along East Main Street, also known as Route 1. Work on the project started earlier in the 2024-25 fiscal year and supports a main stretch of town with many local businesses.

In Colchester, $1,068,196 was allocated to support the third phase of streetscape improvements along Lebanon Avenue. This project was largely completed in the 2024-25 fiscal year, expanding sidewalk up Lebanon Avenue by more than 2,200 feet; it also included a bus shelter.

“Over the last year, these investments by the Department of Transportation have made a real difference in our communities, allowing for easier transportation for local residents to access businesses, town resources and to simply get better outdoor recreation,” said Sen. Needleman. “This is a great benefit for so many residents. I’m grateful to the Department of Transportation and state and local officials for delivering results in our communities.”

“LOTCIP is delivering state funds to projects that make a difference in local communities. By taking on the burden of dealing with federal red tape, CTDOT helps municipalities deliver important projects more efficiently and quickly,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

SENATOR MAHER HAPPY TO WELCOME $2.7 MILLION FOR WESTON ROAD REHABILITATION

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SENATOR MAHER HAPPY TO WELCOME $2.7 MILLION FOR WESTON ROAD REHABILITATION

Today, State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) was happy as Weston was awarded $2,714,809 in transportation funds through the Connecticut Department of Transportation to support rehabilitation of Lyons Plain Road.

This $2.7 million allocation comes as part of a $57.3 million release of funds for 17 projects across the state through the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program for the 2025 fiscal year. The LOTCIP program has operated since 2013 to provide state support to municipalities for local infrastructure projects.

According to Weston town information, this work on Lyons Plain Road started last year, with roadway reconstruction in the area of the Lyons Plain Road fire station and near the intersection of Davis Hill Road, Kellogg Hill Road and Valley Forge Road. Much of the work is complete; the project also involved storm drainage improvements, installations of guardrails in the area and new paving of the roadway.

“This three-mile stretch of land connects Weston with the neighboring community of Westport, serves thousands of travelers daily and holds several important town landmarks,” said Sen. Maher. “The state’s investment in this work is meaningful and I’m grateful to the Department of Transportation and state leaders for their support of our community.”

“LOTCIP is delivering state funds to projects that make a difference in local communities. By taking on the burden of dealing with federal red tape, CTDOT helps municipalities deliver important projects more efficiently and quickly,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

SENATOR ANWAR GRATEFUL AS SOUTH WINDSOR RECEIVES $4.1 MILLION FOR ROAD RECONSTRUCTION

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SENATOR ANWAR GRATEFUL AS SOUTH WINDSOR RECEIVES $4.1 MILLION FOR ROAD RECONSTRUCTION

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) was grateful South Windsor was awarded $4,137,576 in transportation funds through the Connecticut Department of Transportation to support road reconstruction work. The funds support efforts to improve Dart Hill Road for local travelers.

This $4.1 million allocation comes as part of a $57.3 million release of funds for 17 projects across the state through the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program, which has operated since 2013 to provide state support to municipalities for local infrastructure projects.

According to South Windsor town information, the reconstruction work on Dart Hill Road will include new drainage, improved alignments, a new road base, new pavement, and new sidewalks on the north side of the road. Work started in June and is expected to be complete in November.

“This local support will mean so much for town residents, as Dart Hill Road is an often-traveled road connecting Ellington Road and bringing motorists from South Windsor to Vernon and vice versa,” said Sen. Anwar. “Improving this connection point will deliver real benefits for our town and I’m pleased by and grateful for the state’s investments in our local transportation needs.”

“LOTCIP is delivering state funds to projects that make a difference in local communities. By taking on the burden of dealing with federal red tape, CTDOT helps municipalities deliver important projects more efficiently and quickly,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $780,450 IN GRANTS FOR NEW LONDON, WATERFORD OPEN SPACE

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $780,450 IN GRANTS FOR NEW LONDON, WATERFORD OPEN SPACE

Today, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed a total of $780,450 in state funding supporting the acquisition just over 188 acres of open space in New London and Waterford. The two properties that local land trusts will gain access to will provide educational and recreational resources for local residents and protect natural spaces in New London County communities.

The grants were part of a larger awarding of more than $15 million across more than 2,250 acres of open space across 22 towns and cities in the state and to create six new community green spaces. The funds are via the Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

“This remarkable investment by the state to protect local lands will keep our region beautiful, with important wildlife and plant species preserved,” said Sen. Marx. “I’m encouraged that centuries-old history and numerous trails will offer new ways for local residents to learn, hike and explore. Our region is grateful for the state’s foresight and support of natural land.”

“Open space is a big contributor to our great quality of life here in Connecticut, and we are excited to help all these communities improve access to the outdoors with these funds,” Governor Lamont said. “These community assets help our residents stay active and healthy by providing free recreational opportunities while also helping to improve air and water quality. Open space makes Connecticut a great place to live, work, and play.”

In New London, the Avalonia Land Conservancy will receive a total of $227,950 to support its acquisition of the 22.85-acre Shiloh Preserve on Williams Street. The property abuts I-95 and Route 32’s interchange and the Connecticut College Arboretum. Preserving it will support local ecosystems and also provide passing recreational use and educational opportunities, as it holds remnants of local history dating back to the Revolutionary War.

In Waterford, the Avalonia Land Conservancy will receive another $552,500 for the acquisition of the 165.3-acre Harlow Conservation Area on Butlertown Road in Watertown, a large property that will protect local waterways and avian wildlife. Pedestrians will be able to access passive recreational opportunities like hiking, biking and winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing  on the property.

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Slams Trump Administration Freezing $4M for Local Schools

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Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Slams Trump Administration Freezing $4M for Local Schools

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, Senate Chair of the Special Education Committee, slammed the Trump administration for withholding over $4 million from Bridgeport, Monroe and Trumbull schools.

Late last month, the Trump Administration froze $6.8 billion in federal K-12 education funding for the 2025-26 school year. Connecticut schools are set to lose $53.6 million, 10% of their total federal education funding for the school year. Local schools will see significant funding cuts:

Bridgeport: $3,808,657
Monroe: $67,873
Trumbull: $153,137
Total Funding Loss: $4,029,667

“We have a constitutional obligation to provide a proper education to every student in Connecticut, and the President has a legal obligation to allocate dollars approved by Congress,” said Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox. “As Senate Chair of the Special Education Committee, I traveled across the state this session to hear from students, parents, teachers, administrators and local officials on the educational obstacles they face. The one constant we heard over and over again was they needed more funding. Our education budgets, while essential to our communities, can be an extraordinary burden on local taxpayers and municipal budgets. These cuts are not only illegal and immoral, but they are a contradiction to this administration’s claims to fiscal conservatism. From slashing Medicaid and food assistance programs, to now taking dollars out of our local classrooms, this administration is simply shifting the tax burden to working families to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. The hits just keep coming and while we will do all we can, Connecticut cannot afford to completely insulate our residents from the actions of this administration.”

This legislative session, the state legislature passed a budget that prioritized municipal aid and local schools. The state budget delivered Bridgeport, Trumbull and Monroe $38.4 million more in municipal aid over the next two years, including $11 million in each year for Education Cost Sharing (ECS). Senator Gadkar-Wilcox also passed legislation increasing special education funding, including $120 million more in special education reimbursement costs, and $5.4 million for her district in Special Education and Expansion Development (SEED) grants over the next two years.

According to the Connecticut School and State Finance Project, the Trump administration froze several specific grants. The impounded funds largely support multi-language learners, before and after-school programs which serve as a lifeline for working families, academic enrichment, adult education and educator training:

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN HIGHLIGHTS $173,550 IN GRANTS FOR CLINTON, EAST HADDAM OPEN SPACE

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN HIGHLIGHTS $173,550 IN GRANTS FOR CLINTON, EAST HADDAM OPEN SPACE

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) highlighted a total of $173,550 in state funding supporting the acquisition of approximately 37 acres of open space in Clinton and East Haddam. The two properties that local land trusts will gain access to will provide significant recreational resources for local residents and protect natural spaces in Middlesex County communities.

The grants were part of a larger release of more than $15 million across more than 2,250 acres of open space across 22 towns and cities in the state and to create six new community green spaces. The funds are via the Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

“Driving, hiking and walking through our communities reinforces the importance of the preserved open spaces we have here in Connecticut,” said Sen. Needleman. “They represent opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and its fresh air, provide new draws for recreational tourism and keep key lands free from development, preserving our local beauty. I’m proud of our state for continuing to invest in open spaces and thank the Governor and state leaders for these continued investments.”

“Open space is a big contributor to our great quality of life here in Connecticut, and we are excited to help all these communities improve access to the outdoors with these funds,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “These community assets help our residents stay active and healthy by providing free recreational opportunities while also helping to improve air and water quality. Open space makes Connecticut a great place to live, work, and play.”

Under the grant allocations, the Clinton Land Conservation Trust will receive $103,350 to support its acquisition of the 23.57-acre Killingworth Turnpike Open Space, formerly known as the Greystone Property, along Route 81 in Clinton. The property adds to 150 acres of open space in the area and will support a loop trail for hiking.

The East Haddam Land Trust will receive a $70,200 grant to support the acquisition of the R. Smith Connection Property on Tater Hill Road in East Haddam. The 14.12-acre property protects watersheds and avian wildlife, connecting to several other properties in the region.