Author: Devin James

New Haven State Legislators Welcome State Bonding for Key City Projects

Posted on by Devin James

New Haven State Legislators Welcome State Bonding for Key City Projects

HARTFORD—Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney, Senator Gary Winfield, and State Representatives Pat Dillon, Roland Lemar, Juan Candelaria, Al Paolillo, Steve Winter, and Toni Walker today announced the approval of over $9.5 million in state bonding to support critical community projects in New Haven. These projects focus on neighborhood revitalization, youth programming, affordable housing, and park improvements.

The funding includes:

-$6,121,390 to the Greater Dwight Development Corporation, Inc. to create 11 units of affordable housing and community space for local nonprofit and community-based organizations.

-$2,000,000 to United Way of Greater New Haven to support the development of a mixed-income, mixed-use, transit-oriented housing project in downtown New Haven—an effort to address both the housing crisis and climate resiliency through smart, sustainable development.

-$250,000 for Mount Hope Temple to support planning activities for an expansion and renovation of the historic church, enhancing its ability to serve the community with expanded services and programming.

-$250,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Haven to assist with re-design and renovation planning for the Columbus Avenue Clubhouse, ensuring that young people have a safe, modern, and engaging space for after-school and summer programs.

-$500,000 in grant-in-aid to the City of New Haven for capital improvements at Peat Meadow Park, supporting needed upgrades to a vital recreational space for local families.

-$500,000 in grant-in-aid to the City of New Haven for capital improvements at East Shore Park, another step in revitalizing New Haven’s parks and green spaces.

 

“These investments reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening New Haven’s neighborhoods and ensuring opportunity and quality of life for all residents,” said Senator Looney. “From housing to parks to youth development, this state funding will uplift our communities and build a stronger, more equitable future for our city. Whether it’s a child walking into a newly renovated clubhouse, a family finding an affordable home near public transit, or neighbors enjoying improved parks, these dollars will make a real and lasting impact. I want to thank Governor Lamont, the Bond Commission, and all my colleagues who represent New Haven in the General Assembly for their advocacy on behalf of our city. I look forward to seeing these projects take shape and benefit residents across every neighborhood.”

“Each of these investments speaks to a fundamental need in our community,” said Senator Winfield. “From safe spaces for our children to affordable homes for our families, this funding will help improve residents’ day-to-day lives in meaningful ways. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to support a more vibrant and equitable New Haven.”

“The $9.5 million New Haven has received from the State Bond Commission will make a big difference in our city – providing affordable housing for our residents, enhanced services for our kids, and improved parks for our community,” Rep. Candelaria said. “Thank you to the State Bond Commission for their support and my legislative colleagues for their advocacy.”

“I am proud to be a part of this team effort in supporting all of these initiatives,” said Rep. Paolillo. “Whether it is housing, education, healthcare, food security, community and youth, or other vital services, given the current state of affairs on the federal level, this funding is needed now more than ever. This provides direct assistance to some of our most vulnerable people on the front lines and at the grassroots level. That is also the exact purpose of the Community Investment Fund – the first step before State Bond Commission approval – which is to provide equity to all residents in cities like New Haven.”

“New Haven has been featured prominently in this round of funding, with several projects focused on improving quality of life and benefiting the city as a whole,” said Rep. Winter. “I am especially pleased that Mount Hope Temple, an institution that has positively impacted countless lives and provides essential services to our community, will receive much-needed funds to expand its reach and operate a life-saving warming/cooling center for vulnerable residents. I’d like to thank my colleagues and Governor Lamont for prioritizing these crucial initiatives for New Haven.”

“I am honored to be part of a delegation that collaborates on behalf of New Haven, and this funding is a testament to our shared commitment,” said Rep. Walker. “The agenda covered a range of important areas, including strengthening our transportation and housing infrastructure, enhancing parks and recreation, and providing opportunities for children and young residents. I am excited to see these projects move forward for the benefit of our great city.”

“Affordable housing, great parks, high-quality after-school and community programs — these are all essential components for New Haveners to enjoy a high quality of life and to create vibrant communities where families can live, work and play,” said Mayor Justin Elicker. “This $9.5 million in state bonding will go a long way towards advancing several important projects and programs that will help improve the lives of our residents and strengthen our neighborhoods.  I want to thank all the members of our New Haven Delegation, the Bond Commission, and Governor Lamont for supporting these wonderful projects.”

“Each of these projects will make improvements that enhance the quality of life for people who live in New Haven and make the city an even better place to live and do business,” Governor Ned Lamont, chairman of the State Bond Commission, said. “I am glad that our administration could partner with the city and these organizations and get these projects done.”

The bond agenda was approved on Friday, April 11.

Senator Rahman Welcomes $400,000 in State Funding for Glastonbury East Hartford Magnet School

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Rahman Welcomes $400,000 in State Funding for Glastonbury East Hartford Magnet School

Senator MD Rahman, D-Manchester, welcomed the State Bond Commission’s Friday approval of $400,000 in state funding for the Glastonbury East Hartford Magnet School in Glastonbury to support critical infrastructure improvements.

Glastonbury East Hartford Magnet School was one of several interdistrict magnet schools to receive funding as a part of a broader initiative to support capital expenses across various regional service centers.

The approved funds will help finance projects like roof repairs, boiler replacements, HVAC system upgrades, and other essential facility improvements, ensuring that students and staff have a safe and comfortable learning environment.

“Glastonbury East Hartford Magnet School offers students opportunities to explore science, technology, and language, encouraging curiosity and building real-world skills,” Senator Rahman said. “This funding will help keep the school building comfortable and ready to support hands-on learning. These improvements matter for Glastonbury and families across the region whose children benefit from the school’s programs. I’m happy to see the State Bond Commission investing in our students’ future.”

Senator Honig Applauds $605,000 in State Funding for Avon’s Reggio Magnet School of the Arts

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Honig Applauds $605,000 in State Funding for Avon’s Reggio Magnet School of the Arts

Senator Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, welcomed the State Bond Commission’s Friday approval of $605,000 in state funding for the Reggio Magnet School of the Arts in Avon to support critical infrastructure improvements.

Reggio Magnet School of the Arts was one of several interdistrict magnet schools to receive funding as a part of a broader initiative to support capital expenses across various regional service centers.

The approved funds will help finance projects like roof repairs, boiler replacements, HVAC system upgrades, and other essential facility improvements, ensuring that students and staff have a well-maintained learning environment.

“Avon’s Reggio Magnet School of the Arts offers young learners an environment where creativity and curiosity are celebrated every day,” Senator Honig said. “I’m thankful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for investing in the future of Connecticut students. A safe and comfortable school building allows teachers to focus on what matters most—helping children learn and thrive.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov 

Senator Honig Leads Passage of Legislation Establishing National Women Veterans Recognition Day

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Honig Leads Passage of Legislation Establishing National Women Veterans Recognition Day

Sen. Paul Honig, co-chair of the legislature’s Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, led passage Tuesday of a bill to designate June 12 of each year as National Women Veterans Recognition Day in Connecticut, to recognize the significant contributions of women who served in the United States armed forces.

Senate Bill 721, “An Act Designating National Women Veterans Recognition Day,” passed the Senate on a unanimous vote Tuesday afternoon and will now move to the House for consideration.

“For generations, women have worn our nation’s uniform with honor—often without the recognition they earned,” Senator Honig, D-Harwinton, said. “This bill seeks to finally give these veterans the respect and visibility they’ve always deserved. I’m proud to help ensure that Connecticut honors the strength and service of our women veterans.”

Women Veterans Recognition Day was first commemorated by the New York State Assembly in 2008 to mark the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, signed into law by President Harry S. Truman in 1948. This law enabled women to serve as permanent, regular members of the armed forces. Prior to its passage, women were restricted to serving as nurses during peacetime and all other women were sent home at the conclusion of each conflict.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, states and territories that observe Women Veterans Recognition Day include Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Virgin Islands, and Wisconsin.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov 

Sen. Slap Leads Senate Passage of Bill to Support Women in Manufacturing

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Slap Leads Senate Passage of Bill to Support Women in Manufacturing

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Derek Slap, Chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, led Senate passage of legislation that will expand access to manufacturing workforce training for women.

The legislation will increase opportunities for women in manufacturing by:

-Requiring the Office of Workforce Strategy prioritize the inclusion of and outreach to women in the Connecticut Career Accelerator program

-Requiring regional workforce investment boards that operate youth manufacturing programs to market their programs to female high school students

-Requiring Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) to offer career and financial counseling services for female students who apply to participate in the manufacturing program

“Women are severely underrepresented in manufacturing jobs, an industry with great earning potential and significant hiring needs,” said Sen. Slap. “This legislation uses existing resources and ensures that women are being made aware of the opportunities available to them. I am grateful to my colleague Senator Gadkar-Wilcox for approaching the committee with this concept and I’m pleased to see it pass the Senate with unanimous support.”

The legislation now heads to the House floor for passage.

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Support Women in Manufacturing

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Support Women in Manufacturing

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (D-Trumbull) voted for Senate passage of legislation she proposed that will expand access to manufacturing workforce training for women.

The legislation will increase opportunities for women in manufacturing by:

-Requiring the Office of Workforce Strategy prioritize the inclusion of and outreach to women in the Connecticut Career Accelerator program

-Requiring regional workforce investment boards that operate youth manufacturing programs to market their programs to female high school students

-Requiring Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) to offer career and financial counseling services for female students who apply to participate in the manufacturing program

“This legislation is critically important to expand opportunities to women, particularly in manufacturing where women are underrepresented,” said Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox. “This legislation ensures women are aware of opportunities and resources that are already available to them. I am particularly pleased with the career accelerator piece, which will strengthen the talent pipeline for women exploring career growth in the manufacturing sector.”

The legislation now heads to the House floor for passage.

Senator Rahman Applauds Passage of Legislation Establishing National Women Veterans Recognition Day

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Rahman Applauds Passage of Legislation Establishing National Women Veterans Recognition Day

Sen. MD Rahman, D-Manchester, voted Tuesday with the state Senate to pass legislation he sponsored to designate June 12 of each year as National Women Veterans Recognition Day in Connecticut, to recognize the significant contributions of women who served in the United States armed forces.

Senate Bill 721, “An Act Designating National Women Veterans Recognition Day,” passed the Senate on a unanimous vote Tuesday afternoon and will now move to the House for consideration.

“I’m proud to have sponsored this legislation on behalf of women veterans across Connecticut and I thank my colleagues for their support,” Senator Rahman said. “Women serve in critical roles throughout our nation’s armed forces, and I hope that observing this day of recognition will demonstrate Connecticut’s appreciation for their courage and the sacrifices they have made for our nation.”

Women Veterans Recognition Day was first commemorated by the New York State Assembly in 2008 to mark the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, signed into law by President Harry S. Truman in 1948. This law enabled women to serve as permanent, regular members of the armed forces. Prior to its passage, women were restricted to serving as nurses during peacetime and all other women were sent home at the conclusion of each conflict.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, states and territories that observe Women Veterans Recognition Day include Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Virgin Islands, and Wisconsin.

Gaston Releases Statement Following Nightclub Roof Collapse in Dominican Republic

Posted on by Devin James

Gaston Releases Statement Following Nightclub Roof Collapse in Dominican Republic

State Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) released a statement today following the tragedy that occurred in the Dominican Republic early Tuesday. 124 people are dead following a roof collapse at a nightclub.

“My heart is with the families and loved ones affected by the tragic nightclub roof collapse in the Dominican Republic,” said Sen. Gaston. “I stand in solidarity with our Dominican community here in Bridgeport and Stratford during this devastating time. We mourn this loss together. Our community’s strength and unity will help us get through this, and we will continue to raise our voices for those who need help.”

Sen. Cohen Welcomes $24,000 in State Grants for Local Cemeteries

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Cohen Welcomes $24,000 in State Grants for Local Cemeteries

Recently, State Senator Christine Cohen welcomed the state’s $24,000 investment in the maintenance and care of local neglected graveyards across the 12th Senate District.

Through the state’s Neglected Cemetery Account Grant Program, Guilford, Branford and Middlefield will each receive $8,000 to support maintenance of local cemeteries that may not have received upkeep in recent years.

“Cemeteries are not only a resting place for those who have passed on, but a place where we can return to remember our loved ones,” said State Senator Christine Cohen. “I am grateful for this state partnership in ensuring that these final resting grounds are properly maintained out of respect for both the living and the dead.”

The grants can be used by towns receiving them to support basic maintenance ranging from clearing weeds and bushes to mowing lawns, repairing fences or walls and straightening, repairing and restoring memorial stones.

Senator Cohen proposed and helped pass legislation in 2023 to convene a working group to ensure family members of deceased veterans buried in Connecticut cemeteries. The proposal came after Senator Cohen received reports from constituents regarding the quality and condition of their loved ones’ gravesites at a number of cemeteries across the state. Family members say they have little recourse to see the conditions improved due to limited resources at many cemeteries and limited legal oversight, some volunteers work to clean and clear gravesites themselves. The working group is continuing to meet to address the issue.

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

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Condemns Trump Administration Assault on Rule of Law

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Condemns Trump Administration Assault on Rule of Law

Left to Right:
Janée Woods Weber, Executive Director of She Leads Justice
Tonya Hughes, Executive Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities
David McGuire, Executive Director of the ACLU CT
State Representative Josh Elliot
State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (speaking)
State Representative Melissa Osbourne

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, a constitutional law professor, stood alongside a number of lawyer-legislators, civic groups, advocates and others to join the American Bar Association’s call for support for the rule of law and denouncing the Trump administration’s ongoing, systemic undermining of the American judicial system.

In February, the American Bar Association issued a statement condemning the Trump administration’s assault on the rule of law and asking elected representatives to “insist upon adherence to the rule of law” and urged “every attorney to join us and insist that our government, a government of the people, follow the law.” The ABA is a nonpartisan organization that went on to say, “The ABA does not oppose any administration. Instead, we remain steadfast in our support for the rule of law…The administration cannot choose which law it will follow or ignore.”

Specifically, the ABA called out the following actions of the Trump Administration:

-Targeting judges who issue opinions with which the administration does not agree;

-Targeting legal and medical organizations because of their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) advocacy;

-Illegally freezing U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funds;

-Illegally firing federal workers without due process;

-Attacking Constitutionally protected birthright citizenship, and

-Dismantling, without Congressional approval, agencies created by acts of Congress.

Last month, 20 Connecticut civic groups called upon the lawyer-legislators of the Connecticut General Assembly to stand with the ABA and condemn the actions of the current administration. The civic groups include: The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); The Active Voice; Act Local NWCT; ConnCAN (Campaign for Achievement Now); CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV); CT River Huddle Indivisible; Democracy Women in Action; Indivisible Southeast CT; Indivisible Stamford; Inter-religious Eco-Justice Network; League of Women Voters of CT; OrangeCT Indivisible; ReSisters; She Leads Justice; Shoreline Indivisible; Take Action CT; Third Act Connecticut; Quiet Corner Indivisible CT; Quiet Corner Shouts; UConn Law Diversity Alliance; University of Connecticut School of Law’s Energy and Environmental Law Society (EELS); and Wake the Future.

“I stand with the American Bar Association and the call to make a public statement confirming my commitment to the US Constitution and our system of law,” said State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, a constitutional law professor at Quinnipiac. “I make this commitment as a legislator, a lawyer, a professor of constitutional law – and most importantly, as an engaged citizen. Our Constitution carefully designed each branch of government to serve a particular function with the other two branches checking any overreach of power. The actions of the federal executive to defy judicial rulings, close programs created and funded by Congress, and deport lawful residents without due process are all acts that go well beyond the boundaries of the Constitution. They are unconstitutional and thereby un-American. We must do more than make statements to this end. We have to engage our communities in conversations about our Constitution to give them the tools to explain why these actions are unlawful and how they undermine the oldest and most respected constitution in the world. This is our history, our democracy, and our future! Let’s stand up to defend our Constitution!”

“Every elected leader, regardless of party, must uphold their oath to the Constitution. This is not about partisanship. It is about principle. For legislators who are also lawyers, the obligation is even greater. You took two oaths, and both demand action when the rule of law and democracy are under threat. Silence is not an option.” David McGuire, Executive Director, ACLU of Connecticut.