Author: Devin James

SEN. OSTEN WELCOMES SIGNING OF IMPORTANT CONNECTICUT FARM AID BILL

Posted on by Devin James

SEN. OSTEN WELCOMES SIGNING OF IMPORTANT CONNECTICUT FARM AID BILL

Senator Cathy Osten and members of the Spielman Farm in Baltic, Connecticut

State Senator Cathy Osten (D-Norwich) was praised today for her work in crafting a bill that will bring about $144 million in tax cuts to Connecticut farmers and make them eligible for millions more in state aid to run their farms.

Sen. Osten was a key speaker at the ceremonial bill signing for Senate Bill 1497, “An Act Concerning Programming At The Department Of Agriculture,” which passed the General Assembly in June on a bipartisan and nearly unanimous vote. The bill signing took place at a tobacco farm in South Windsor.

Senate Bill 1497 increases the local property tax exemption on farm machinery to from $100,000 to $250,000, a change that is expected to save Connecticut farmers about $144 million in local property taxes every year. The bill also provides a 20% income tax credit for farmers investing in machinery, buildings or equipment, thereby supporting farmers who are struggling with costs and inflation

The bill also creates a new state-backed crop loss reimbursement grant program will help support farmers who face crop losses after extreme weather events, and it allows drones to be used for precision application of fertilizers and pesticides

“Agriculture in Connecticut brings in billions of dollars of revenue to the state every single year and is responsible for tens of thousands of jobs. When I was younger, my parents ran a family restaurant in eastern Connecticut, and we would buy our corn, eggs, milk and meat from local farms,” said Sen. Osten. “This bill provides a mechanism for dealing with the costs of running a farm, and if we can drive down those costs, we can drive down the costs to consumers. This bill has been a dream of mine to accomplish, and I’m so excited that my colleagues joined me because any legislative victory is never one person, it’s done with a team and a group of people. And this was a bipartisan bill, supported on both sides of the aisle.”

At today’s event, state Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt introduced Sen. Osten as a “legislative champion” of the bill and its driving force.

“Senator Osten, as chair of the Rural Caucus, has spent a significant amount of time and energy focused on agriculture – not only in her district, but across the state,” said Commissioner Hurlburt. “She started the conversation around the Connecticut farm bill with a very simple statement: ‘I want to do something for farms this year.’ Senator, with the passage of this bill, you certainly did a heck of a lot for farms this year.”

Senator Hochadel Condemns Trump Cut to Meriden Boys & Girls Club

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Senator Hochadel Condemns Trump Cut to Meriden Boys & Girls Club

Senator Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, issued the following statement Wednesday in response to education funds withheld by President Donald Trump’s administration, which will result in the termination of free afterschool programming at the Meriden Boys & Girls Club.

The Meriden Boys & Girls Club relies on federal funding under the 21st Century Learning program to provide transportation and high-quality afterschool programming to 145 students. However, the Trump administration’s U.S. Department of Education has frozen Congressionally approved support for the program as of July 1, 2025, leaving the afterschool initiative unfunded effective immediately.

“I’m appalled by this decision to take resources directly from the youth in my community — especially the students most in need of assistance,” Senator Hochadel said. “We’re talking about families who enrolled their children in safe, supportive afterschool programs funded with money promised by the federal government. They built their budgets and work schedules around that commitment, trusting their kids would be cared for after school. Republicans in Washington have betrayed that trust. While I will explore any and all avenues of supporting the Meriden Boys & Girls Club and other services impacted by this cut, I am disturbed by this cynical decision by our federal government. Voters will remember who turned their back on our kids. If Republicans don’t value our children, what do they stand for?”

The administration’s decision to withhold the funds is expected to have repercussions for programs serving young people across the nation. According to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the loss of funding could result in the closure of hundreds of clubs, providing supportive programming and safe spaces to more than 220,000 children during the most vulnerable times of day. Click here to learn more.

SENATOR MAHER THRILLED AS REDDING RECEIVES $6.065 MILLION IN STATE BRIDGE FUNDING

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SENATOR MAHER THRILLED AS REDDING RECEIVES $6.065 MILLION IN STATE BRIDGE FUNDING

State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) was thrilled to welcome the announcement that Redding will receive $6.065 million in support for four local bridge projects through the state Department of Transportation, providing vital resources to keep local bridges in good condition for decades to come.

“Our bridges are necessary points of connection across our communities, and keeping them safe for traffic passing every day is a vital need,” said Sen. Maher. “I’m so grateful to the Department of Transportation for this significant local support and it’s relieving to know our local roads will remain safe for years to come.”

The announcement was part of a larger $17.3 million allocation for 15 projects across the state, with cost-matching through the State Local Bridge Program meeting half of necessary project costs for bridges owned by local municipalities. Towns and cities are responsible for the remaining 50% of costs.

In Redding, four separate bridges will receive support, including:

       $1.13 million for the bridge carrying Sport Hill Road over an unnamed stream

       $2.453 million for the bridge carrying Greenbush Road over Little River

       $1.097 million for the bridge carrying Brookside Road over Gilbert Bennett Brook

       $1.386 million for the bridge carrying Long Wall Road over an unnamed stream

“This program helps keep locally owned bridges in good repair, ensuring they remain safe and reliable for all travelers,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “As the program continues to deliver real results for communities both big and small, its popularity grows year after year. We’re proud to support these efforts and get the projects to the finish line.”

West Hartford Delegation Secures Over $600k for Local Nonprofits

Posted on by Devin James

West Hartford Delegation Secures Over $600k for Local Nonprofits

WEST HARTFORD – In the 2025 legislative session, the West Hartford delegation secured $610,316 for four local nonprofits. State Senator Derek Slap and State Representatives Kate Farrar, Tammy Exum, Jillian Gilchrest, Bobby Gibson and James Sánchez brought home grants for the following organizations over the next two years:

-$160,000 for West Hartford Pride

-$170,000 for Futures Inc.

-$130,316 for Playhouse on Park

-$150,000 for the Turning Points program at The Bridge Family Resource Center

West Hartford Pride celebrates, supports and protects members of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Greater West Hartford area through a number of initiatives and events. West Hartford Pride hosts an annual Pride Festival in June which serves as an opportunity to amplify the voices of the community, resist hate and center love and acceptance.

Futures Inc. is an organization which seeks to empower members of the disability community by creating growth opportunities and offering personalized supports for young adults and adults with disabilities. The Futures School in West Hartford is the state’s first community-based special education school for ages 14-22, and their adult programming offers employment and career training, as well as activities and socialization.

Playhouse on Park is a professional theatre that offers high quality entertainment at affordable prices, lowering barriers for residents of West Hartford and surrounding areas in experiencing the humanities.

Turning Points is a life skills program that provides critical interventions for at-risk youth from ages 4-20 to help them lead lives free from violence. The Bridge serves an estimated 800 youth that are supported by this program located at the West Hartford Teen Center, the Bridge’s Family Resource Center, and additional community settings. The Bridge provides age appropriate interventions and corresponding life-skills to the high risk youth in the community and the impact this funding has on those they serve goes beyond words.

“West Hartford has so many incredible organizations that provide invaluable services to our community,” said Sen. Derek Slap. “I am so pleased that my colleagues and I were able to bring home over half a million dollars to further the mission of four critical nonprofits that cultivate community, bolster the humanities and create a sense of belonging for everyone.”

“West Hartford’s diversity and commitment to inclusivity, ensuring everyone and anyone is welcome, is among its many strengths,” Rep. Tammy Exum said. “I think the funding designated for these nonprofits only serves as a confirmation of who and what the town is. I could not be more pleased to have worked alongside my colleagues to secure these funds.”

“These projects reflect a range of quality-of-life initiatives that are vital to many residents of West Hartford. Organizations such as Playhouse on Park, Futures Inc., West Hartford Pride, and The Bridge Family Center provide essential services—from arts and entertainment to health and personal well-being. I’m grateful that funding for these important programs was prioritized,” Rep. Jillian Gilchrest said.

“West Hartford is home to so many remarkable nonprofits. These organizations meet essential needs, cultivate community, create a true sense of belonging for every resident, and contribute to our robust economy,” said Rep. Kate Farrar. “This investment is about more than dollars. it’s about recognizing the heart and soul of West Hartford and ensuring our community continues to thrive.”

“I’m thrilled to see the funding coming to some of our amazing West Hartford nonprofits,” Rep. James Sanchez said. “This funding provides support and opportunity to our most vulnerable residents, backs our local arts and entertainment community, and prepares children for the future through mental health counseling, development programs, and much more. Thank you to all of my legislative colleagues for helping secure these critical funds for our community.”

“On behalf of the Playhouse Theatre Group, Inc. Staff and Board of Directors, I wish to express my profound gratitude to Governor Lamont and our Legislators for this generous and equitable increase to our Direct Line Item funding,” said Tracy Flater, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Playhouse Theatre Group, Inc. “The arts, including live theatre and theatre education are crucial to both the residents of CT and our surrounding community. Your investment will make a difference. Thank you!”

“The Board of Directors at West Hartford Pride is grateful to our delegation for fighting for, and providing resources that will help us connect our community with vital services and to provide the spaces where we can experience joy,” said Barry Walters, Founder and Co-Chair, West Hartford Pride.

“Futures Inc. continues to prioritize purpose and employment for individuals with disabilities of all levels of  support needs through their MicroBusiness program. This grant will allow an expansion of the co-op program to allow individuals community and guidance as they work on self-employment endeavors,” said Darlene Borré, Futures Inc.

Senator Hochadel Highlights $1.2 Million State Grant for Cheshire Bridge Replacement

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Hochadel Highlights $1.2 Million State Grant for Cheshire Bridge Replacement

Senator Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, on Tuesday welcomed a $1.24 million from the Connecticut Department of Transportation to offset the cost of replacing the Notch Road Bridge over Ten Mile River in Cheshire.

The funding comes from the department’s State Local Bridge Program, which provides 50% of the costs associated with replacing locally owned bridges.

“Local infrastructure like the Notch Road Bridge help us with necessities like commuting to work and getting the kids to school safely,” Senator Hochadel said. “When the state chips in to help with these costs, it allows us make necessary upgrades while minimizing the impact on local taxpayers. I’m grateful for the Department of Transportation’s investment in Cheshire.”

The bridge replacement in Cheshire was one of 15 projects to receive funding from the Department of Transportation, which announced more than $17.3 million in grants this week.

“This program helps keep locally owned bridges in good repair, ensuring they remain safe and reliable for all travelers,” Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. “As the program continues to deliver real results for communities both big and small, its popularity grows year after year. We’re proud to support these efforts and get the projects to the finish line.”

Senator Honig Secures State Funding to Support Pediatric Dental Care at Brooker Memorial in Torrington

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Senator Honig Secures State Funding to Support Pediatric Dental Care at Brooker Memorial in Torrington

Photo caption: Dental hygienist Julia Nield counts Jasper Donahue’s teeth as State Senator Paul Honig and Brooker Memorial Executive Director Christina Emery look on during a tour of the pediatric dental center July 2. Photo courtesy of Brooker Memorial

TORRINGTON — Senator Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, visited Brooker Memorial on Wednesday to celebrate a special appropriation he championed in the newly adopted state budget signed by Governor Ned Lamont on Monday. As part of the biennial budget, Brooker Memorial will receive $100,000 in both FY2026 and FY2027 to support its growing pediatric dental program.

“It’s hard to imagine a more important mission than Brooker Memorial’s commitment to providing essential dental care to children in the Torrington area,” Senator Honig said. “That care takes financial support and with around 85% of their patients relying on Medicaid, recent federal actions have only added to the fiscal pressures they already face. I was proud to help secure state funding to support their work. At a time when many of our social safety nets are in jeopardy, it matters that Connecticut continues to invest in institutions that care for children and the most vulnerable among us.”

Brooker Memorial has long advocated at the state level for improved HUSKY Medicaid reimbursement rates, which have remained unchanged since 2007, despite raising costs for dental providers, supplies, insurance, and equipment. While specific increases to pediatric dental rates were not included in this year’s challenging budget session, lawmakers approved a broader $45 million increase to overall Medicaid funding over the next two years.

“We are deeply grateful for Senator Honig’s leadership in securing this funding for Brooker,” said Christina Emery, Executive Director of Brooker Memorial.

“This investment comes at a critical time, especially given the ongoing challenges posed by low Medicaid reimbursement rates for dental services. This funding is especially important as we work to meet the growing demand for access to dental care in our community. Dental care is essential; it helps alleviate pain, supports proper nutrition, prevents tooth loss, and

addresses speech difficulties. Left untreated, tooth decay can lead to serious long-term oral health problems, particularly for children.”

She noted that it remains unclear how the increased Medicaid funds will impact the state dental Medicaid program.

“More information will likely be forthcoming during a special legislative session when the state has more information on changes to federal Medicaid funding,” Ms. Emery said.

During his visit, Senator Honig toured Brooker’s dental and early childhood education centers.

The dental center served more than 5,000 patients in the past year, 85% of whom are on HUSKY Medicaid. Brooker’s early learning and child care center serves 75 children daily, offering care for up to 12 hours per day, Monday through Friday, including children supported by the state’s Care 4 Kids program.

Senator Rahman Welcomes $1.4 Million Investment in Bolton Bridge

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Senator Rahman Welcomes $1.4 Million Investment in Bolton Bridge

Senator MD Rahman, D-Manchester, welcomed Tuesday the state’s announcement that Bolton was one of eight communities receiving significant investments through the state’s Transportation Rural Improvement Program, or TRIP.

Bolton will receive $1,413,238 to support the replacement of the Lyman Road Bridge, which connects several neighborhoods to the region, provides access to Gay City State Park, and provides shopping and entertainment access for much of Bolton. The project will replace the bridge’s existing twin six-foot diameter asphalt coated corrugated metal pipe culverts with an 18-foot clear span by six-foot precast concrete box culvert.

“With these funds, Bolton will be able to retain current access around town for residents to travel, preserving the quality of its most important transportation resources,” Senator Rahman said. “This is wonderful news for our community and I’m grateful to Governor Lamont for his support.”

“Our smaller towns are one of the many things that make Connecticut such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family,” Governor Lamont said. “More importantly, these state grants will not only strengthen transportation but help to ensure our communities remain safe and connected for future generations.”

The TRIP program is specifically designed to support rural communities that are otherwise ineligible for federal programs because of small size or population density.

Sen. Lesser Statement on U.S. Senate Passing Trump’s Budget Bill

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Sen. Lesser Statement on U.S. Senate Passing Trump’s Budget Bill

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Matt Lesser, Senate Chair of the Human Services Committee, issued a statement in response to the U.S. Senate passing President Trump’s budget bill by a margin of 51-50, with Vice President J.D. Vance breaking the tied vote.

The bill includes devastating cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs, while delivering tax breaks for the richest Americans and contributing significantly to the federal deficit.

“This monstrous bill represents a profound betrayal of the American people. It mortgages our future, slashes Medicaid and food stamps, and transfers hundreds of billions of dollars in responsibilities from the federal government onto Connecticut taxpayers with unfunded mandates. Connecticut residents have long paid the federal government far more than we receive in benefits. The MAGA Republicans are now refusing to pay us what little they have committed to – while they throw tens of millions of American citizens off their health insurance and destroy the Affordable Care Act. We will work carefully to understand the impact on Connecticut’s budget and make necessary adjustments to protect our state from a predatory federal government.”

Maroney Responds to Senate Rejection of Federal Ban on State AI Laws

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Maroney Responds to Senate Rejection of Federal Ban on State AI Laws

Today, state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford), is responding to the Senate’s decision to strike down a federal proposal that would have blocked states from regulating Artificial Intelligence. During the 2025 legislative session, the Connecticut Senate passed comprehensive AI legislation for the second year in a row, but the bill but did not gain the support needed and failed to pass the House due to a veto threat from Governor Lamont.

“States like Connecticut need smart AI rules that protect working families. Picture it like having a neighborhood watch for computer programs: our laws prevent AI from treating people unfairly when they seek jobs, loans, or government services.

“The federal ten-year freeze would have silenced this common-sense protection. Working families deserve better than waiting a decade while AI changes everything without proper oversight.

“We avoided that mistake. Now, Connecticut and others nationwide need to show how states can balance innovation with keeping residents truly safe.”

Sen. Slap, Rep. Piscopo Welcome $1.5M for Rural Road Work

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Sen. Slap, Rep. Piscopo Welcome $1.5M for Rural Road Work

BURLINGTON, CT – Today, State Senator Derek Slap and State Representative John Piscopo welcomed news that Burlington will receive a state grant for $1,545,500 for improvements to West Chippen Road.

The West Chippen Road project includes full-depth reconstruction of the roadway and drainage improvements, which will make conditions safer for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Near the project area are the Session Woods Wildlife Management Area and the Tunxis Trail hiking area. Additionally, the roadway provides an alternate travel route from Bristol to Burlington.

Governor Lamont announced $10 million in state funding for eight rural communities across Connecticut through the Transportation Rural Improvement Program (TRIP). TRIP is administered through the state Department of Transportation, as rural communities are not often eligible for federal transportation grants.

“The West Chippen Road project will increase connectivity and safety for Burlington residents and those in the surrounding area,” said Sen. Slap. “I am grateful to Governor Lamont for his committed partnership to towns of all sizes and populations, and I look forward to seeing this project progress.”

“Improving this critical roadway will not only enhance safety for everyone who uses it, but also strengthen our local infrastructure and support access to the natural resources that make our region unique. I appreciate the state’s recognition of the needs in our rural communities,” said Rep. Piscopo.