Author: Devin James

STATE SENATOR MARTHA MARX NAMED SENATE CHAIR OF HOUSING COMMITTEE, REAPPOINTED AS VICE CHAIR OF PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE

Posted on by Devin James

December 6, 2024

STATE SENATOR MARTHA MARX NAMED SENATE CHAIR OF HOUSING COMMITTEE, REAPPOINTED AS VICE CHAIR OF PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE

Fresh off her re-election to a second term in Hartford, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) was named Senate Chair of the Housing Committee in the General Assembly, additionally reappointed as the Vice Chair of the Public Health Committee. In her first term, Sen. Marx served as Senate Chair of the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee.

“I am honored to take the reins from retiring State Senator Marilyn Moore in taking leadership of the Housing Committee,” said Sen. Marx. “Connecticut’s housing crunch is making it difficult for employers to fill jobs and leaves residents paying high costs to rent and own across the state. This is a challenge I’m ready to meet head-on, and I’m ready to work with my colleagues to find solutions that will propel Connecticut forward.”

“Senator Marx is a tenacious, hard-working Senator who always has the best interests of her constituents and the people of Connecticut on her mind,” said Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven). “I know she’s ready to roll up her sleeves and address the housing needs of our state at this crucial time.”
Contact: Joe O’Leary | 508-479-4969 | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov

Senator Gaston Named Chair of the Public Safety Committee and Vice Chair of the Housing Committee

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Gaston Named Chair of the Public Safety Committee and Vice Chair of the Housing Committee

State Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) has been named Chair of the Public Safety Committee, which oversees all matters relating to the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. Senator Gaston has also been named Vice Chair of the Housing Committee, which works to evaluate and define all housing options needed for affordable housing throughout Connecticut.

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to chair the Public Safety Committee for a second year in a row,” said Sen. Gaston. “It’s an honor to continue working alongside such dedicated individuals and working to protect the safety of individuals and their families in Connecticut. I am also grateful Senator Looney appointed me to lead the Housing Committee. We must continue to our efforts to offer affordable housing and rental assistance to people in our state. I am looking forward to working on legislation that will help homeowners and renters.”

“Senator Gaston made great progress for our state while chairing the Public Safety Committee, and I have no doubt he will continue to be a valuable leader for the next two years,” said Sen. Looney. “Senator Gaston has been a champion for housing issues locally and I am excited to add his leadership to the Housing Committee as a Vice Chair.”

The Public Safety and Security Committee has cognizance of all matters relating to (A) the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, and (B) civil preparedness and homeland security, state police, the state-wide organized crime investigative task force, municipal police training, fire marshals, the fire safety code, the state building code, and legalized gambling.

The Housing Committee has cognizance of all matters relating to housing and housing programs.

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN TO REMAIN SENATE CHAIR OF ENERGY & TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE, VICE CHAIR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
December 6, 2024

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN TO REMAIN SENATE CHAIR OF ENERGY & TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE, VICE CHAIR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

As he prepares for his fourth term, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) was reappointed as Senate Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee in the General Assembly and Vice Chair of the Planning and Development Committee for the 2025 and 2026 legislative sessions. Since Norm first won election to the Senate in 2018, he has served as Senate Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee.

“It’s an honor to return to this important committee at a very critical time in Connecticut, and I’m looking forward to the work we’ll get done,” said Sen. Needleman. “We must address the affordability of energy in our state; I’m committed to continuing to work and find solutions that can bring ratepayers relief. We need to build on the efforts we’ve accomplished in recent years, pushing for stronger regulations, better access to broadband internet, a deeper look at data centers and so many more issues continuing to impact our communities.”

“As well, with housing issues and town planning also receiving focus, returning to the Planning and Development Committee after serving decades in municipal government uniquely positions me to further benefit our state,” he said.

“Senator Needleman has been laser-focused on strengthening our energy grid, shepherding emerging technologies and working in ratepayers’ best interests for his entire Senate career,” said Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven). “I have the utmost confidence in his future work.”

Senator MD Rahman Reappointed as Chair of the Planning and Development Committee

Posted on by Devin James

Senator MD Rahman Reappointed as Chair of the Planning and Development Committee

Senator MD Rahman, D-Manchester, has been reappointed as Chair of the Planning and Development Committee and Vice Chair of the Commerce Committee for the 2025-2026 legislative sessions, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Majority Leader Bob Duff announced Friday.

“Our state’s future depends in part on thoughtful planning and smart economic decisions that strengthen our communities and promote growth,” Senator Rahman said. “I look forward to continuing the important work of the Planning and Development Committee to ensure that we support our local governments with effective solutions, and I am committed to help advance initiatives through the Commerce Committee that will help businesses thrive in Connecticut.”

As Chair of the Planning and Development Committee, Senator Rahman will continue overseeing a wide range of issues, including local governance, urban renewal, regional planning, and infrastructure needs that impact communities across Connecticut.

In addition, as Vice Chair of the Commerce Committee, Senator Rahman will help guide efforts to bolster Connecticut’s business environment, support small businesses, and create an economic climate that benefits the state.

“Throughout his first term, Senator Rahman has been an advocate for making Connecticut a more affordable place to live and has supported the economic development that drives our state forward,” Senator Looney said. “I am confident that under his leadership, the Planning and Development and Commerce Committees will continue to address the critical issues facing our state and its residents.”

Senator Rahman has represented Manchester, Glastonbury, Andover, and Bolton since he was first elected to the state Senate in 2022.

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

SENATOR ANWAR TO REMAIN SENATE CHAIR OF PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE, VICE CHAIR OF INSURANCE COMMITTEE

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
December 6, 2024

SENATOR ANWAR TO REMAIN SENATE CHAIR OF PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE, VICE CHAIR OF INSURANCE COMMITTEE

State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) was announced today to remain Senate Chair of the Public Health Committee in the General Assembly in 2025 and 2026, allowing him to continue building on progress benefitting the residents of Connecticut. In addition, Sen. Anwar will remain Vice Chair of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee. He took chairmanship of the Public Health Committee in late 2022 after serving four years as Vice Chair of that committee as well.

“It is an honor and privilege to be trusted with this vital leadership role, and with my experience as a medical doctor, I can bring direct knowledge and insight to important issues we consider in the next two years,” said Sen. Anwar. “Our health care systems need to meet the needs of our residents and there are pressing matters, including hospital operations and resident access to care, that need to be addressed statewide. I’m happy to work to solve these pressing problems.”

“Since he joined the Senate in 2019, Senator Anwar has played an important leadership role, always with an eye on the health and safety of the people of our state,” said Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven). “With shakeups expected federally and globally in months to come, I’m confident in his ability to keep Connecticut stable and moving forward toward a healthier future.”

Sen. Anwar, a pulmonologist with an extensive medical career and a Master’s degree in Public Health from Yale University, has for years been focused on improving public health in Connecticut. He has played key roles in advocating for policies including increased protections for doctors and nurses, increased access and resources to aid children’s mental health and increasing the age of access for tobacco products. He is also monitoring the development of artificial intelligence in health care to provide more positive patient outcomes. He will use his leadership position to further examine and develop policies to benefit public health in the state.

STATE SENATOR CECI MAHER REAPPOINTED AS CHAIR OF COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, NAMED VICE CHAIR OF HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE

Posted on by Devin James

December 6, 2024

STATE SENATOR CECI MAHER REAPPOINTED AS CHAIR OF COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, NAMED VICE CHAIR OF HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE

State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton), who was recently re-elected to serve a second term in the Connecticut State Senate, was today reappointed as the Senate Chair of the Committee on Children through 2026. In addition, she was named Vice Chair of the Human Services Committee; in her first term, Sen. Maher was Vice Chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee.

“I could not be more proud to return to the Committee on Children for another term, continuing our work to benefit the children of our state,” said Sen. Maher. “We have plenty of important focuses and pressing issues in our state, ranging from children’s mental health care and support to preserving children’s safety, reducing inequalities and ensuring every youth in Connecticut has the opportunity to succeed.”

“With her extensive experience as a social worker, non-profit leader and community volunteer, Senator Maher remains constantly focused on benefitting the children of Connecticut and is the perfect choice to lead the Committee on Children for another term,” said Senate President Martin M. Looney. “I am certain that she will continue working in the best interests of the youth of our state.”
Contact: Joe O’Leary | 508-479-4969 | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov

Sen. Lesser Re-Appointed Chair of Human Services, Appointed Vice-Chair of Veterans Committee

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Lesser Re-Appointed Chair of Human Services, Appointed Vice-Chair of Veterans Committee

Today, Senate Leadership re-appointed State Senator Matt Lesser as Chair of the Human Services Committee, and appointed him as Vice-Chair of the Veterans Committee for the 2025-26 term.

“I have long been an advocate for the underserved in Connecticut and I am eager to continue this work as co-chair of the Human Services Committee,” said Sen. Lesser. “This session I am dedicated to tackling the high cost of prescription drug prices, investing in our state’s Medicaid system, ensuring Connecticut’s aging population has the services they need and so much more.

I am honored to join the Veterans Committee as Vice-Chair. My district is home to the Middletown State Veterans Cemetery which is the final resting place for over 16,000 Veterans and their family members, as well as the Colonel Raymond F. Gates Cemetery, located in Rocky Hill. Rocky Hill is also home to the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, and the VA Medical Center is in Newington. I am eager to ensure Connecticut will honor the service and sacrifices of our veterans, both those still with us and those who have passed on.”

“Senator Lesser is known for being a strong voice for the most vulnerable in our state,” said Senate President Martin Looney. “Senator Lesser has fought to expand HUSKY coverage to children, ensure timely wheelchair repairs, address gaps in senior nutrition programs and more. I am certain that he will continue to protect the most vulnerable and ensure Connecticut works for everyone.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin | garnet.mclaughlin@cga.ct.gov | 860-304-2319

Senator Doug McCrory Reappointed as Chair of the Education Committee

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Doug McCrory Reappointed as Chair of the Education Committee

Senator Doug McCrory, D-Hartford, has been reappointed as Senate Chair of the Education Committee for the 2025-2026 legislative sessions, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Majority Leader Bob Duff announced Friday.

In addition to his leadership role on the Education Committee, Senator McCrory will also serve as one of two Vice Chairs of the Public Health Committee and as Vice Chair of a newly formed legislative committee with oversight of government operations.

“As someone who has dedicated my career to educating young people, I know firsthand the importance of providing every child with the high-quality education they deserve, especially those from traditionally underserved communities,” Senator McCrory said. “I’d like to thank Senators Looney and Duff for their confidence in my ability to make sure Connecticut students receive the support they need to succeed.

“I’m also looking forward to taking on new leadership roles,” Senator McCrory said. “As Vice Chair of the Public Health Committee, I’m eager to address long standing health disparities. Additionally, I’m excited to take on the role of Vice Chair of a new committee on government oversight, where I’ll focus in part on making sure our agencies are held accountable and that government resources, services, and hiring practices are truly serving the needs of every community.”

“Senator McCrory has consistently been a leader in the fight for equitable education and opportunity for all students,” Senator Looney said. “His commitment to ensuring that every child has access to the resources they need to succeed will continue to guide the work of the Education Committee and his leadership on the Public Health Committee and the new government oversight committee will help promote a healthy Connecticut, where government agencies are accountable to the people they serve.”

Senator McCrory has represented Hartford, Bloomfield, and Windsor in the state Senate since 2017. He was first elected to the General Assembly in 2004 to represent the 7th House district, which he served for six full terms.
Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651

Senator Hochadel Reappointed Chair of the Aging Committee

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Hochadel Reappointed Chair of the Aging Committee

Senator Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, has been reappointed to serve another term as Chair of the Aging Committee and Vice Chair of the Environment Committee, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Majority Leader Bob Duff announced Friday.

As Chair of the Aging Committee, Senator Hochadel will continue to lead efforts aimed at improving the lives of Connecticut’s seniors. She will build on the committee’s recent successes, including the passage of key nursing home reforms that enhance state oversight and expand access to high-quality home-based care, enabling more seniors to age in place with dignity.

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done on the Aging Committee, particularly our efforts to strengthen nursing home oversight and expand access to home-based care,” Senator Hochadel said. “There’s more to do, and I’m grateful to Senators Looney and Duff for their trust in me to continue this important work. I’m also eager to maintain my leadership role on the Environment Committee, where we’ll focus on combating climate change and implementing policies that protect Connecticut’s environment for all residents.”

“Senator Hochadel has shown strong leadership and has advanced meaningful reforms for Connecticut’s seniors,” Senator Looney said. “Her efforts on the Aging Committee, particularly in expanding access to home-based care and improving nursing home oversight, have begun to have a direct impact on the lives of many of our residents. I’m confident she will continue driving progress on both the Aging and Environment Committees.”

Senator Hochadel was first elected to the state Senate in 2022. She represents the 13th Senate District, which includes Meriden and parts of Cheshire, Middletown, and Middlefield.

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

Senator Miller Reappointed as Senate Chair of the Banking Committee, Named Co-Chair of the General Obligation Bonding Subcommittee

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Miller Reappointed as Senate Chair of the Banking Committee, Named Co-Chair of the General Obligation Bonding Subcommittee

Senator Patricia Billie Miller, D-Stamford, will serve another term as the Senate Chair of the legislature’s Banking Committee and will take on the role of Co-Chair of the General Obligation Bonding Subcommittee, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney and Majority Leader Bob Duff announced Friday.

Senator Miller’s appointment to the bonding subcommittee will allow her to draw on her previous experience as House Chair of the panel during her service in the Connecticut House of Representatives.

Additionally, Senator Miller will remain Vice Chair of both the Aging Committee and the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committee for the 2025-2026 legislative sessions.

“During my tenure as Senate Chair of the Banking Committee, we have made great strides modernizing Connecticut’s approach to financial services and spurring innovation in the FinTech sector. I am grateful to Senators Looney and Duff for their faith in my ability to build on that progress,” Senator Miller said. “Likewise, I am proud to maintain key leadership posts on the Aging Committee, where our work to protect seniors has become more important than ever, and on the Finance Committee, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the next two-year budget to reflect Connecticut’s priorities and values.”

“I particularly welcome the opportunity to once again lead the General Obligation Bonding Subcommittee, where I look forward to leveraging my prior experience as the panel’s House Chair to guide strategic investments that will strengthen communities across Connecticut,” Senator Miller said.

“Senator Miller has demonstrated remarkable leadership and dedication, both in the Banking Committee and through her work on the Aging and Finance Committees,” Senator Looney said. “I’m pleased that she will continue in these key roles, and I look forward to the important contributions she will make as Co-Chair of the General Obligation Bonding Subcommittee. Her experience will guide Connecticut toward investments that benefit our communities for years to come.”

Senator Miller has represented Stamford and parts of Darien in the state Senate since winning a special election in 2021. Prior to her election to the Senate, she served in the House of Representatives from 2009 to 2021, representing the145th House District.
Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651