Author: Devin James

SENATOR ANWAR HIGHLIGHTS MENTAL HEALTH GRANT SUPPORT FOR EAST HARTFORD SCHOOLS

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
June 27, 2024

SENATOR ANWAR HIGHLIGHTS MENTAL HEALTH GRANT SUPPORT FOR EAST HARTFORD SCHOOLS

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) highlighted the announced $85,000 in mental health support programming grant funding that will be used to support East Hartford Public Schools over the next two years.

“While our schools take a summer break, mental health needs year-round attention, and our state’s focus on this important issue will benefit a number of students in the next few years,” said Sen. Anwar. “Providing our youth with the resources they need to be their best selves is incredibly valuable and I’m grateful to the Governor and our Department of Education for recognizing this vital need.”

The grant, awarded under the Connecticut State Department of Education’s Summer Mental Health Supports Grant program, will utilize American Rescue Plan Act funding and provide resources for mental health supports in school programs over the summer this year and in 2025.

This will allow the school district to provide students with the supports they need year-round, especially important as some may only be able to access mental health aid during the school year.

Share Share
Tweet Tweet
Forward Forward

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN HIGHLIGHTS PORTLAND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH GRANT

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
June 27, 2024

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN HIGHLIGHTS PORTLAND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH GRANT

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) highlighted the announced $18,428 in mental health support programming grant funding that will be used to support Portland youth over the next two years. Portland’s school district will receive the funding.

“Mental health support is valuable year-round and I’m encouraged by this continued focus on its importance for youth,” said Sen. Needleman. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Department of Education for their support.”

The grant, awarded under the Connecticut State Department of Education’s Summer Mental Health Supports Grant program, will utilize American Rescue Plan Act funding and provide resources for mental health supports in school programs over the summer this year and in 2025.

This will allow the school district to provide students with the supports they need year-round, especially important as some may only be able to access mental health aid during the school year.
Share Share
Tweet Tweet
Forward Forward

Senator Herron Keyon Gaston Participates in White House Safer States Legislative Convening on Gun Violence Prevention

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Herron Keyon Gaston Participates in White House Safer States Legislative Convening on Gun Violence Prevention

Senator Herron Keyon Gaston, D-Bridgeport, participated Wednesday in the White House Safer States Legislative Convening on Gun Violence Prevention. The event brought together 60 legislators from 30 states, senior federal officials, and prominent thought leaders to discuss and develop effective policies aimed at reducing gun violence.

Senator Gaston was the sole legislator from Connecticut to attend this prestigious event, underscoring the significance of his contributions to public safety and criminal justice policy in the state. During the convening, Senator Gaston highlighted Connecticut’s transformational gun safety policies, particularly the state’s red flag law, gun storage safety laws, and its investment in community nonprofit organizations working to prevent gun violence at a grassroots level.

“This event was an excellent opportunity to promote Connecticut’s groundbreaking gun safety policies,” Senator Gaston said. “I was proud to be among a select group of leading policymakers, engaging with top officials from across the country. This experience reinforced our state’s leadership on violence prevention and provided new ideas to benefit Bridgeport and Stratford in our ongoing efforts to reduce gun violence.”

Senator Gaston was also invited to be a part of a panel to discuss Connecticut’s efforts to address pervasive violence. He emphasized the importance of community partners, grassroots organizations that are directly addressing the problem on the ground, and the state’s proactive stance in investing in these essential programs.

The convening featured talks from senior White House officials and state leaders, including Tom Perez, senior advisor and assistant to the president and director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Illinois. The event included breakout group discussions focused on developing and implementing effective gun violence prevention strategies.

Based on ideas discussed during the event, Senator Gaston hopes to explore securing Department of Justice grants to hire retired law enforcement officers to investigate cold cases. This initiative aims to bring closure to unresolved cases and further enhance community safety.

Senator Herron Keyon Gaston, pictured here with key legislators from across the country during the White House Safer States Legislative Convening on Gun Violence Prevention.

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

Senators Looney, Duff, and Lesser Call for Explanation on Delay in Summer Food Aid

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney, Duff, and Lesser Call for Explanation on Delay in Summer Food Aid

“Summer programs need to be active during the summer, not near the end of it”

Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) called for a more detailed explanation from the state Department of Social Services on the six week delay in the Summer EBT program. The Senators stated:

“Families expecting these benefits during the summer will be unable to access them until their children will already be preparing for the new school year. Delays and issues happen, but the lack of explanation surrounding this change does not answer our constituents’ questions. The last-minute announcement will have a detrimental effect for thousands of families and will increase food insecurity across our communities. Summer programs need to be active during the summer, not near the end of it – we hope the Department of Social Services can provide more information regarding this delay and find ways to help the families who may struggle in its absence.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Senators Looney, Duff, and Lesser Call for Explanation on Delay in Summer Food Aid

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney, Duff, and Lesser Call for Explanation on Delay in Summer Food Aid

“Summer programs need to be active during the summer, not near the end of it”

Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) called for a more detailed explanation from the state Department of Social Services on the six week delay in the Summer EBT program. The Senators stated:

“Families expecting these benefits during the summer will be unable to access them until their children will already be preparing for the new school year. Delays and issues happen, but the lack of explanation surrounding this change does not answer our constituents’ questions. The last-minute announcement will have a detrimental effect for thousands of families and will increase food insecurity across our communities. Summer programs need to be active during the summer, not near the end of it – we hope the Department of Social Services can provide more information regarding this delay and find ways to help the families who may struggle in its absence.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov

Senators Looney, Duff, and Lesser Call for Explanation on Delay in Summer Food Aid

Posted on by Devin James

Senators Looney, Duff, and Lesser Call for Explanation on Delay in Summer Food Aid

“Summer programs need to be active during the summer, not near the end of it”

Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) called for a more detailed explanation from the state Department of Social Services on the six week delay in the Summer EBT program. The Senators stated:

“Families expecting these benefits during the summer will be unable to access them until their children will already be preparing for the new school year. Delays and issues happen, but the lack of explanation surrounding this change does not answer our constituents’ questions. The last-minute announcement will have a detrimental effect for thousands of families and will increase food insecurity across our communities. Summer programs need to be active during the summer, not near the end of it – we hope the Department of Social Services can provide more information regarding this delay and find ways to help the families who may struggle in its absence.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | 203-710-0193 | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov

Senator Hochadel Applauds State Funding for Summer Camp Mental Health Programs

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Hochadel Applauds State Funding for Summer Camp Mental Health Programs

Senator Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, welcomed Thursday the release of an $85,000 state grant awarded to the Middletown School District to support summer camps providing mental health services to students.

The State Department of Education awarded the grant under its Summer Mental Health Supports Grant program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act.

“As a teacher, I understand firsthand how the summer break can disrupt the continuity of important support services for our students,” Senator Jan Hochadel said. “This grant is crucial for ensuring that mental health services are seamlessly integrated into our summer programs, providing a supportive and enriching environment that helps students continue to thrive outside the traditional school year. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the Department of Education for their continued support and commitment to the mental well-being of our students.”

The Summer Mental Health Supports Grant program partners school districts with summer program providers and youth camp operators to deliver mental health programming to students during the summer vacation months.

“The need for mental health services for our youth continues year-round, and by enhancing existing programs and creating new initiatives tailored to their needs, we are investing in the future success and well-being of Connecticut’s youth,” Governor Lamont said. “The collaboration between school districts, summer camps, and mental health professionals is key to this effort, ensuring that our students receive the necessary support during these critical periods.”

“By partnering with schools, camps, and community-based programs, we are ensuring that mental health services are available year-round,” Commissioner Russell-Tucker said. “This investment further extends the availability of social, emotional, and mental health supports during the summer through new community partners with innovative initiatives and programming to support students wherever they are spending time this summer.”

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

Senator Hochadel Welcomes Financing for Meriden Housing Development

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Hochadel Welcomes Financing for Meriden Housing Development

Sen. Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, welcomed state financing Wednesday to support the renovation of a vacant mill in Meriden in order to create a total of 82 housing units, most of which will be set aside for affordable housing.

The redevelopment of the 123,000 square-foot Aeolian Company building at 85 Tremont St. in Meriden will receive $9.5 million in financing from the Connecticut Department of Housing and $4.78 million in financing from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority.

Additionally, low-income housing tax credits are expected to generate more than $18 million in private investment for this project.

“This financing to repurpose the historic Aeolian building represents a victory for Meriden taxpayers, who will benefit from the redevelopment of a vacant building as well as families seeking affordable place to live,” Senator Hochadel said. “This money addresses a critical need while making smart use of existing structures and I’m grateful to the Department of Housing and the CHFA for their efforts to support Meriden.”

Of the 82 housing units that will be created by the project, 71 units will be affordably priced for households making at or below 80% of the area’s median income. The project is located within walking distance of public transportation and will include amenities like a fitness center, kids’ playroom, indoor bike storage, and a community room.

The Department of Housing and Connecticut Housing Finance Authority announced the financing this week as one of nine projects, which will receive a total of more than $57 million in loans and grants from DOH and $51.6 million from CHFA.

These projects are expected to create a total of 722 housing units, including 651 for low- and moderate-income renters, 82 of which will be permanent supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness and people with disabilities.

“Since 2019 we have built or rehabilitated 12,000 affordable units in different communities around the state, with another 5,000 under construction” Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno said. “Soon these units will become homes for many families who expect and deserve high-quality affordable living. DOH will continue to work with all our partners to ensure that residents have options that are affordable in the community they choose to call home.”

“We are excited to support these housing developments, which will make a meaningful impact on the lives of Connecticut residents,” CHFA CEO Nandini Natarajan said. “Through strategic financing and collaboration, CHFA is dedicated to providing safe, affordable housing for individuals and families across a range of income levels. These developments highlight the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering inclusive communities and addressing the diverse housing needs of our state.”

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

SENATE DEMOCRATS PASS PRO-BUSINESS SPECIAL SESSION AGENDA

Posted on by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969
June 26, 2024

SENATE DEMOCRATS PASS PRO-BUSINESS SPECIAL SESSION AGENDA

HARTFORD – Senate Democrats voted today to approve a special session package of legislation that will increase business activity in the state. The bill’s provisions include creating a new class of “innovation banks” to forgiving the interest on certain past business tax underpayments, creating a new state-chartered regional water authority, lowering local property taxes on commercial vehicles, reinvigorating the school construction bid process, and streamlining the state’s historic preservation process.

“Today was a good day in the Senate as we voted to bring new business to Connecticut, reduced taxes that would have damaged a number of employers and made small, but valuable, changes to a number of policies,” said State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor).

The bill in question:

  • Creates a new class of “innovation banks,” which typically perform financial-related activities such as wholesale banking and merchant banking, and recruit them to operate in Connecticut.
  • Allows the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority to amend its charter to possibly acquire the Aquarion Water Company, thereby creating a state-chartered regional water authority.
  • Forgives any interest due on any business tax underpayment that was made as a result of businesses taking the employee retention tax credit, which was offered for 21 months by the Biden administration during the COVID-19 crisis.
  • Requires local tax assessors to tax commercial motor vehicles with certain permanent attachments as motor vehicles (with a maximum tax rate of 32.46 mills) and not as personal property (which some towns tax at 40 mills or more).
  • Requires cities and towns to set different mill rates for motor vehicles and property, with motor vehicles tax rates as low as zero if a town chooses.
  • In an effort to avoid criminal acts or the perception of impropriety, reinstates the state prohibition on construction managers on school construction projects from bidding on subcontracts.
  • Creates a timeline by which the State Historic Preservation Office determines the preservation and redevelopment needs of historic properties.
  • Changes the formula and timeframe by which state insurance companies pay assessments to operate the state Insurance Department, Office of Healthcare Advocate, and Office of Health Strategy.
Share Share
Tweet Tweet
Forward Forward

Senator Patricia Billie Miller Welcomes Passage of Legislation to Modernize Connecticut’s Banking Laws

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Patricia Billie Miller Welcomes Passage of Legislation to Modernize Connecticut’s Banking Laws

Senator Patricia Billie Miller, D-Stamford, helped Wednesday to pass revisions to Connecticut’s banking statutes, which are expected to benefit Stamford, a city with a thriving and growing financial sector. The changes, passed during a special legislative session, include the creation of a new classification of bank called “innovation banks.”

Innovation banks are Connecticut-chartered or organized banks and trust companies, savings banks, or savings and loan associations that do not accept retail deposits. The new law authorizes these banks to receive non-retail deposits eligible for Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance, providing them with greater operational flexibility and the ability to secure deposit insurance for these deposits.

“The creation of innovation banks will enhance Connecticut’s financial landscape by providing more flexibility and opportunities for growth within the banking sector,” Senator Miller, co-chair of the legislature’s Banking Committee, said. “This legislative update is a crucial step in ensuring that our state remains competitive and continues to attract top-tier financial institutions. By modernizing our banking sector we are supporting economic growth in Stamford and across the state.”

This new classification of bank will encompass financial institutions previously referred to as “uninsured banks.” The bill also defines “retail deposits” as deposits by anyone other than accredited investors, as specified in federal securities regulations.

Accredited investors include certain banks, securities brokers or dealers, insurance companies, investment companies, business development companies, qualifying retirement and employee benefit plans, trusts with assets over $5 million, and individuals with an income over $200,000 in each of the past two years or $300,000 jointly with a spouse.

Other provisions of the bill passed during Wednesday’s session included changes that will:

  • Allow the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority to amend its charter to possibly acquire the Aquarion Water Company, thereby creating a state-chartered regional water authority.
  • Forgive any interest due on any business tax underpayment that was made as a result of businesses taking the employee retention tax credit, which was offered for 21 months by the Biden administration during the COVID-19 crisis.
  • Require local tax assessors to tax commercial motor vehicles with certain permanent attachments as motor vehicles (with a maximum tax rate of 32.46 mills) and not as personal property (which some towns tax at 40 mills or more).
  • Require cities and towns to set different mill rates for motor vehicles and property, with motor vehicles tax rates as low as zero if a town chooses.
  • In an effort to avoid criminal acts or the perception of impropriety, reinstate the state prohibition on construction managers on school construction projects from bidding on subcontracts.
  • Create a timeline by which the State Historic Preservation Office determines the preservation and redevelopment needs of historic properties.
  • Change the formula and timeframe by which state insurance companies pay assessments to operate the state Insurance Department, Office of Healthcare Advocate, and Office of Health Strategy.
Contact: Hugh McQuaid | Hugh.McQuaid@cga.ct.gov | 860-634-4651
Share Share
Tweet Tweet
Forward Forward