Author: Devin James

Sen. Slap Passes Bill to Protect Student Scholarships

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Slap Passes Bill to Protect Student Scholarships

Today, State Senator Derek Slap, Senate Chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee led passage of a bill that protects students’ financial aid and scholarships from interference by institutions of higher education.

The legislation prohibits the practice of scholarship displacement, in which a college or university awards a student a certain amount of financial aid, and then later reduces the student’s financial aid package based on scholarships the student received from organizations outside of the university. For example, if a student receives a financial aid package of $10,000 from a university, and then receives a local scholarship for $1,000, the school may decrease their financial aid amount to $9,000.

“We are facing a college affordability crisis across this country, which stifles opportunity and limits our workforce development,” said Sen. Slap. “Students work tirelessly to gain admittance to a college, secure financial aid, and then spend hours applying for private scholarships to make the most of every dollar of aid and minimize their reliance on student debt. A student does not secure these external scholarships in order to save the institution money, and their financial aid should not be negatively affected.”

This bill received strong support in public testimony from organizations and individuals, including current and former students. The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving testified in support of its efforts to ensure students receive all resources available to them when needing financial aid, noting this proposal’s effort “to ensure that private and public investments in scholarship programs are used to complement rather than supplant” financial aid resources at Connecticut colleges and universities.

Yale student Anthony Dominguez testified that recipients of private scholarships do not often see the financial benefits of their awards; his own friends had to take multiple jobs in order to stay in school, and this proposal would positively impact first generation low income students to maximize their college experiences.

Esperance Han of Yale testified that she comes from a low-income family and received a four-year full scholarship to the university, but learned that any further scholarships she received would go to the University and not her family; that constrained her ability to move to Connecticut and prepare for studies. Libby Lamport, also a Yale student, testified she had to send back scholarship money due to university policies on financial aid, which she said “penalizes students for seeking out additional resources.”

According to the Pew Research Center, as of June 2024 Americans owed $1.6 trillion in student loans, which is 42% more than what they owed a decade earlier and 1 in 4 American adults have student loan debt.

As of 2024, six states – California, Maryland, New Jersey, Minnesota, Washington and Pennsylvania – have created laws to end award displacement.

Senator Slap also led passage of legislation which would create a task force to support promise programs across the state. There are currently several Promise Programs in cities across the state that provide scholarship and college success support for students, however each of them operate independently. This legislation would explore a statewide, coordinated approach to college access and success.

Both bills passed the Senate unanimously and now head to the House.

SENATOR ANWAR ISSUES STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF PRATT & WHITNEY WORKERS STRIKE

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR ANWAR ISSUES STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF PRATT & WHITNEY WORKERS STRIKE

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) issued the following statement in support of striking at Pratt & Whitney’s factories in Connecticut. About 3,000 workers are striking after contract negotiations between the company and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers broke down:

“East Hartford depends and relies on the workers and economic powers of Pratt & Whitney, and no business can succeed without its workers. I stand with the machinists who are seeking to ensure the financial security of their families and the longevity of their careers.”

MIDDLETOWN LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH STRIKING PRATT & WHITNEY WORKERS, CITING JOB SECURITY, GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

Posted on by Devin James

MIDDLETOWN LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH STRIKING PRATT & WHITNEY WORKERS, CITING JOB SECURITY, GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

MIDDLETOWN, CT — The Middletown state legislative delegation today announced its full support for the Pratt & Whitney workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), who are set to go on strike starting at midnight.

The workers are demanding stronger job protections amid escalating fears that the company could relocate key manufacturing operations to Germany or North Carolina.

The Pratt & Whitney facilities in Middletown produce the F135 engine for the F-35 fighter jet and the advanced, fuel-efficient Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines used in Airbus’ A320neo aircraft.

These are highly strategic, high-skill manufacturing operations critical to both U.S. defense and international aerospace commerce. Parent company RTX recently announced stronger-than-expected earnings, but warned investors that tariffs could cost the company $850 million in 2025.

Middletown’s lawmakers are sounding the alarm about the broader risks at stake—not only to local jobs but to economic stability and national security.
“I have deep respect for the hardworking members of IAM Locals 700 and 1746, and I stand with them as they raise their voices for fair treatment and long-term security,” State Representative Kai Belton said. “These machinists play a critical role in Connecticut’s economy and deserve a contract that reflects their value and dedication. I hope both sides can return to the table and reach an agreement that honors the contributions of these skilled workers and supports strong, stable jobs in our communities.”

“The workers in Middletown and East Hartford helped build Pratt & Whitney’s legacy through generations of hard work, innovation, and excellence,” said Senator Matt Lesser. “Now, with global tensions rising, they’re rightly demanding job security and respect. These jobs must stay here.”

“The hardworking employees of Pratt & Whitney helped make Connecticut a leader in aerospace manufacturing. Now these workers would like basic assurances their jobs won’t be shipped overseas or sent to other locations,” Sen. Jan Hochadel said. “Sadly, the federal mediators who have helped resolve these conflicts in the past are no longer available. I stand firmly with these dedicated workers, who want to ensure they can continue to provide for their families.”

“I am proud to stand in solidarity with the workers of Pratt and Whitney,” State Rep. Brandon Chafee said. “Pratt and Whitney has been a major employer in Connecticut since it was founded here one hundred years ago. These workers are an integral part of our community, and they deserve decent wages, benefits, and assurances that their jobs won’t be shipped overseas to further enrich shareholders and executives. I am urging management to come to the table and bargain in good faith with the workers who have made the company what it is today.”

Lawmakers also raised concerns about increasing economic disruption tied to President Trump’s renewed tariffs on European aerospace components and ongoing tensions with NATO allies. These dynamics threaten global supply chains and could complicate the production of both military and commercial engines.

The delegation called on RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies), the parent company of Pratt & Whitney, to return to the bargaining table with good-faith proposals that protect jobs, honor the workforce, and invest in Connecticut’s manufacturing future.

The lawmakers also plan to join workers on the picket line this week.

MIDDLETOWN LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH STRIKING PRATT & WHITNEY WORKERS, CITING JOB SECURITY, GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

Posted on by Devin James

MIDDLETOWN LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH STRIKING PRATT & WHITNEY WORKERS, CITING JOB SECURITY, GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

MIDDLETOWN, CT — The Middletown state legislative delegation today announced its full support for the Pratt & Whitney workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), who are set to go on strike starting at midnight.

The workers are demanding stronger job protections amid escalating fears that the company could relocate key manufacturing operations to Germany or North Carolina.

The Pratt & Whitney facilities in Middletown produce the F135 engine for the F-35 fighter jet and the advanced, fuel-efficient Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines used in Airbus’ A320neo aircraft.

These are highly strategic, high-skill manufacturing operations critical to both U.S. defense and international aerospace commerce. Parent company RTX recently announced stronger-than-expected earnings, but warned investors that tariffs could cost the company $850 million in 2025.

Middletown’s lawmakers are sounding the alarm about the broader risks at stake—not only to local jobs but to economic stability and national security.
“I have deep respect for the hardworking members of IAM Locals 700 and 1746, and I stand with them as they raise their voices for fair treatment and long-term security,” State Representative Kai Belton said. “These machinists play a critical role in Connecticut’s economy and deserve a contract that reflects their value and dedication. I hope both sides can return to the table and reach an agreement that honors the contributions of these skilled workers and supports strong, stable jobs in our communities.”

“The workers in Middletown and East Hartford helped build Pratt & Whitney’s legacy through generations of hard work, innovation, and excellence,” said Senator Matt Lesser. “Now, with global tensions rising, they’re rightly demanding job security and respect. These jobs must stay here.”

“The hardworking employees of Pratt & Whitney helped make Connecticut a leader in aerospace manufacturing. Now these workers would like basic assurances their jobs won’t be shipped overseas or sent to other locations,” Sen. Jan Hochadel said. “Sadly, the federal mediators who have helped resolve these conflicts in the past are no longer available. I stand firmly with these dedicated workers, who want to ensure they can continue to provide for their families.”

“I am proud to stand in solidarity with the workers of Pratt and Whitney,” State Rep. Brandon Chafee said. “Pratt and Whitney has been a major employer in Connecticut since it was founded here one hundred years ago. These workers are an integral part of our community, and they deserve decent wages, benefits, and assurances that their jobs won’t be shipped overseas to further enrich shareholders and executives. I am urging management to come to the table and bargain in good faith with the workers who have made the company what it is today.”

Lawmakers also raised concerns about increasing economic disruption tied to President Trump’s renewed tariffs on European aerospace components and ongoing tensions with NATO allies. These dynamics threaten global supply chains and could complicate the production of both military and commercial engines.

The delegation called on RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies), the parent company of Pratt & Whitney, to return to the bargaining table with good-faith proposals that protect jobs, honor the workforce, and invest in Connecticut’s manufacturing future.

The lawmakers also plan to join workers on the picket line this week.

Middletown Legislative Delegation Condemns NEA Decision to Cut Funding for Oddfellows Playhouse

Posted on by Devin James

Middletown Legislative Delegation Condemns NEA Decision to Cut Funding for Oddfellows Playhouse

“One More Lawless Attack on the People of Connecticut”

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Today, State Senators Matt Lesser and Jan Hochadel and State Representatives Kai Belton and Brandon Chafee issued a unified and forceful condemnation of the National Endowment for the Arts’ (NEA) decision—under the direction of President Trump’s administration—to abruptly withdraw previously committed federal funding for Oddfellows Playhouse, a cornerstone of youth arts education and social engagement in Central Connecticut.

In a letter received this week by Oddfellows Director Dic Wheeler, the NEA informed the organization that its $10,000 grant, which was intended to support a theater production centered on the lived experiences of underserved high school youth, had been revoked due to new policy priorities dictated by the Trump administration.

The NEA justified its decision by stating that the project “does not align” with new federal directives which now prioritize political and ideological goals such as “celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence,” “fostering AI competency,” and “making the District of Columbia safe and beautiful,” among others.

“This is one more lawless attack on the people of Connecticut by an out-of-control administration that is targeting arts, truth-telling, and young people,” said the delegation in a joint statement. “Oddfellows Playhouse has spent decades providing an essential platform for creative expression, empowerment, and community-building. For the federal government to strip funding from a program that uplifts underserved youth—simply because it doesn’t fit a political agenda—is disgraceful, retaliatory, and deeply un-American.”

Oddfellows Playhouse, founded in 1975, has served generations of Connecticut youth, particularly from marginalized communities. The canceled production was designed to amplify the voices of high school students whose stories are too often left out of public discourse—a mission that aligns precisely with the NEA’s founding purpose: to support creativity, inclusion, and free artistic expression.

The delegation called for immediate congressional oversight of NEA decision-making, transparency in the implementation of these new funding priorities, and a reversal of what they describe as “ideological cleansing masquerading as arts policy.”

“This isn’t just an attack on a theater. It’s an attack on free expression, local communities, and the very idea that art belongs to everyone—not just to those who serve the President’s agenda,” the statement concluded.

Middletown Legislative Delegation Condemns NEA Decision to Cut Funding for Oddfellows Playhouse

Posted on by Devin James

Middletown Legislative Delegation Condemns NEA Decision to Cut Funding for Oddfellows Playhouse

“One More Lawless Attack on the People of Connecticut”

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Today, State Senators Matt Lesser and Jan Hochadel and State Representatives Kai Belton and Brandon Chafee issued a unified and forceful condemnation of the National Endowment for the Arts’ (NEA) decision—under the direction of President Trump’s administration—to abruptly withdraw previously committed federal funding for Oddfellows Playhouse, a cornerstone of youth arts education and social engagement in Central Connecticut.

In a letter received this week by Oddfellows Director Dic Wheeler, the NEA informed the organization that its $10,000 grant, which was intended to support a theater production centered on the lived experiences of underserved high school youth, had been revoked due to new policy priorities dictated by the Trump administration.

The NEA justified its decision by stating that the project “does not align” with new federal directives which now prioritize political and ideological goals such as “celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence,” “fostering AI competency,” and “making the District of Columbia safe and beautiful,” among others.

“This is one more lawless attack on the people of Connecticut by an out-of-control administration that is targeting arts, truth-telling, and young people,” said the delegation in a joint statement. “Oddfellows Playhouse has spent decades providing an essential platform for creative expression, empowerment, and community-building. For the federal government to strip funding from a program that uplifts underserved youth—simply because it doesn’t fit a political agenda—is disgraceful, retaliatory, and deeply un-American.”

Oddfellows Playhouse, founded in 1975, has served generations of Connecticut youth, particularly from marginalized communities. The canceled production was designed to amplify the voices of high school students whose stories are too often left out of public discourse—a mission that aligns precisely with the NEA’s founding purpose: to support creativity, inclusion, and free artistic expression.

The delegation called for immediate congressional oversight of NEA decision-making, transparency in the implementation of these new funding priorities, and a reversal of what they describe as “ideological cleansing masquerading as arts policy.”

“This isn’t just an attack on a theater. It’s an attack on free expression, local communities, and the very idea that art belongs to everyone—not just to those who serve the President’s agenda,” the statement concluded.

Looney, Duff, and Kushner Release Statement on Pratt & Whitney Strike

Posted on by Devin James

Looney, Duff, and Kushner Release Statement on Pratt & Whitney Strike

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury), co-chair of the Labor and Public Employees Committee, issued the following statement regarding the Pratt and Whitney strike.

“We stand in solidarity with the machinists at Pratt & Whitney. These workers are vital to Connecticut’s economy and national defense, and they deserve a fair contract that reflects their contributions. We urge Pratt & Whitney to return to the table with a genuine commitment to negotiating in good faith. A strong middle class begins with strong labor protections, and Connecticut’s future depends on honoring the dignity of work.”

Looney, Duff, and Kushner Release Statement on Pratt & Whitney Strike

Posted on by Devin James

Looney, Duff, and Kushner Release Statement on Pratt & Whitney Strike

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury), co-chair of the Labor and Public Employees Committee, issued the following statement regarding the Pratt and Whitney strike.

“We stand in solidarity with the machinists at Pratt & Whitney. These workers are vital to Connecticut’s economy and national defense, and they deserve a fair contract that reflects their contributions. We urge Pratt & Whitney to return to the table with a genuine commitment to negotiating in good faith. A strong middle class begins with strong labor protections, and Connecticut’s future depends on honoring the dignity of work.”

Looney, Duff, and Kushner Release Statement on Pratt & Whitney Strike

Posted on by Devin James

Looney, Duff, and Kushner Release Statement on Pratt & Whitney Strike

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury), co-chair of the Labor and Public Employees Committee, issued the following statement regarding the Pratt and Whitney strike.

“We stand in solidarity with the machinists at Pratt & Whitney. These workers are vital to Connecticut’s economy and national defense, and they deserve a fair contract that reflects their contributions. We urge Pratt & Whitney to return to the table with a genuine commitment to negotiating in good faith. A strong middle class begins with strong labor protections, and Connecticut’s future depends on honoring the dignity of work.”

CT Senate Leaders Slam Trump’s Cuts to Student Mental Health

Posted on by Devin James

CT Senate Leaders Slam Trump’s Cuts to Student Mental Health

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), co-chair of the Public Health Committee, and Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton), co-chair of the Committee on Children, issued the following statements condemning Trump’s unlawful decision to cancel $1 billion in student mental health grants which was passed by Congress on a bipartisan basis after the tragic school shooting in Uvalde.

“Connecticut has led the nation in addressing gun violence and building a stronger, more compassionate mental health infrastructure for our youth,” said Senate President Martin Looney. “These unconscionable cuts from the Trump administration are a direct attack on our children’s safety and wellbeing. We urge Connecticut Republicans to stand up for children across our state instead of paying fealty to Donald Trump. This is a moment for courage, not politics.”

“This decision doesn’t just pull the rug out from under school counselors and mental health professionals, it will make our schools less safe,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “The Trump administration is turning its back on the very children Congress vowed to protect after Uvalde.”

“Mental health support is proven to work best when it is culturally competent and reflects the community it serves,” said Senator Saud Anwar. “What this administration is doing is simply dangerous and illegal.”

“These programs help children navigate trauma, support parents, and save lives,” said Senator Ceci Maher. “To cancel them is not only reckless, it is morally bankrupt.”