Author: sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

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Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), and Senator Paul Honig (D-Harwinton) strongly denounced the Department of Homeland Security’s recent U.S. Coast Guard policy revision that removed the explicit designation of swastikas and nooses as “hate symbols” and instead labeled these symbols as “potentially divisive.”

“Swastikas and nooses are unmistakable representations of hatred, terror, and historical atrocity,” said Senate President Looney. “The decision to soften their classification is a political choice and part of a disturbing pattern of minimizing the significance of the symbols of hatred to appease extremists by President Trump. Coast Guard members and the public deserve leadership that stands clearly and unequivocally against hate, especially as antisemitism and racially motivated violence rise across the country.”

“An administration that thinks a swastika and a noose are only potentially divisive shows the rot of hatred that infests the highest levels of the Trump administration,” said Senate Majority Leader Duff. “Connecticut rejects hate and the violence it enables and stands with service members who deserve clear moral leadership from Republicans in Washington.”

“Rebranding symbols of lynching and genocide as merely ‘divisive’ is despicable,” said Senator Marx. “I wish the Trump administration would spend more time supporting our men and women serving our country instead of enabling hate that endangers them and their families.”

“I struggle to understand what message the Department of Homeland Security sought to send when it went out of its way to normalize explicit hate symbols like nooses and swastikas,” Senator Honig said. “This change helps no one and addresses no legitimate concern. I’ve heard no rational defense of this policy, not in normal times and certainly not amid surging antisemitism and the recent mass murder at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. We must be better than this, and I call on the administration to immediately rescind this directive and prioritize the safety and dignity of all Americans.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

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Senate Leaders Condemn Embrace of Hate Symbols by Trump’s DHS

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), Senator Martha Marx (D-New London), and Senator Paul Honig (D-Harwinton) strongly denounced the Department of Homeland Security’s recent U.S. Coast Guard policy revision that removed the explicit designation of swastikas and nooses as “hate symbols” and instead labeled these symbols as “potentially divisive.”

“Swastikas and nooses are unmistakable representations of hatred, terror, and historical atrocity,” said Senate President Looney. “The decision to soften their classification is a political choice and part of a disturbing pattern of minimizing the significance of the symbols of hatred to appease extremists by President Trump. Coast Guard members and the public deserve leadership that stands clearly and unequivocally against hate, especially as antisemitism and racially motivated violence rise across the country.”

“An administration that thinks a swastika and a noose are only potentially divisive shows the rot of hatred that infests the highest levels of the Trump administration,” said Senate Majority Leader Duff. “Connecticut rejects hate and the violence it enables and stands with service members who deserve clear moral leadership from Republicans in Washington.”

“Rebranding symbols of lynching and genocide as merely ‘divisive’ is despicable,” said Senator Marx. “I wish the Trump administration would spend more time supporting our men and women serving our country instead of enabling hate that endangers them and their families.”

“I struggle to understand what message the Department of Homeland Security sought to send when it went out of its way to normalize explicit hate symbols like nooses and swastikas,” Senator Honig said. “This change helps no one and addresses no legitimate concern. I’ve heard no rational defense of this policy, not in normal times and certainly not amid surging antisemitism and the recent mass murder at a Hanukkah event in Sydney. We must be better than this, and I call on the administration to immediately rescind this directive and prioritize the safety and dignity of all Americans.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Duff, Norwalk Delegation Applaud New State Bonding for Major Infrastructure and Housing Investments

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

Sen. Duff and Norwalk State Delegation Applaud New State Bonding for Major Infrastructure and Housing Investments

HARTFORD – Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and the Norwalk state legislative delegation celebrated the approval of significant state bonding for Norwalk that will strengthen mobility, improve pedestrian safety, revitalize key commercial corridors, and support senior housing. The funding was adopted at today’s meeting of the State Bond Commission.

The State Bond Commission approved the following allocations for Norwalk:

  • Lexington Avenue Mobility Upgrades – $2.5 million
    This investment will redesign Lexington Avenue to improve traffic flow, enhance safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, and support ongoing neighborhood revitalization efforts. This funding was recently approved in an October meeting of the Community Investment Fund and received final approval by the State Bond Commission today.
  • Washington Street Streetscape – $1 million
    Funding will support streetscape improvements—including lighting, sidewalks, and pedestrian enhancements—on one of Norwalk’s most vibrant mixed-use corridors in South Norwalk. This funding was also recently approved in an October meeting of the Community Investment Fund and received final approval by the State Bond Commission today.
  • Sidewalk construction along Winfield Street – $3 million
  • Sidewalks on Silvermine Avenue between Bartlett Avenue and New Canaan Avenue – $1.2 million
  • Norwalk Senior Housing Project at 79 South Main Street & 6–8 Chestnut Street – $180,000
    This grant supports continued planning and development of affordable senior housing in South Norwalk, ensuring older residents can stay in the community they call home.

“This bond agenda delivers real, practical investments that make Norwalk safer, more walkable, and more inclusive,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “From major corridor upgrades and sidewalk expansions to planning support for senior housing, this funding reflects our shared priority of investing in infrastructure that improves everyday life and positions Norwalk for continued growth. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for believing in Norwalk and helping us move these projects forward.”

“I am grateful that this critical funding for housing infrastructure and sidewalks was approved,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “I heard from many constituents about their concerns and the urgent need for improvements to the Silvermine sidewalks, and I am proud to help deliver these much-needed upgrades. These investments will strengthen our neighborhoods, improve safety and accessibility, and better connect residents to vital resources and opportunities. By laying the groundwork for long-term stability and economic growth, we are enhancing the overall quality of life in our community.”

“This has been a great year for grant funding for Norwalk, and I am glad that we can celebrate another round of state funding for the City before 2025 comes to a close,” said Rep. Johnson. “These improvements will enable Norwalk to go far in our ongoing work to modernize our City’s infrastructure, making our community more welcoming and safer for current residents and visitors alike. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for funding these vital projects.”

“Once completed, these projects will greatly benefit individuals who travel by foot, as well as older residents, two groups that are often overlooked,” said Rep. Roberts. “Thank you again to Governor Lamont and the bond commission for your consideration.”

“I’m proud to serve as part of Norwalk’s state legislative delegation and to represent the 140th District, including much of South Norwalk,” said Rep. Simms. “These investments are about improving everyday life – making our streets safer, strengthening walkability, and supporting seniors who want to remain in the community they call home. This funding reflects a shared commitment to smart infrastructure investments that help Norwalk grow in a way that is inclusive, practical, and built to last.”

“I want to thank Governor Lamont, Senator Duff and the Bond Commission for continuing to prioritize Norwalk residents’ quality of life through these critical infrastructure investments,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made in building an integrated, safe, and accessible mobility network while strengthening Norwalk’s infrastructure in partnership with the State. Funding for sidewalks on Winfield Street and Silvermine Avenue, mobility upgrades on Lexington Avenue, streetscape improvements on Washington Street, and more affordable housing for our seniors will help Norwalk continue to increase livability, safety and affordability for our residents.”

“We are incredibly excited and grateful for Senator Duff’s leadership in securing these critical state investments for Norwalk,” said Jim Travers, Norwalk Director of Transportation, Mobility, and Parking. “These projects will significantly improve safety, accessibility, and mobility for people of all ages and abilities—whether they are walking, biking, taking transit, or driving. The upgrades to Lexington Avenue, Winfield Street, and Silvermine Avenue directly advance Norwalk’s Complete Streets legislation by creating safer, more connected corridors that support our residents, local businesses, and neighborhoods. This funding allows us to continue building a transportation network that reflects our community’s values and prioritizes safety for everyone.”

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $900k for Trumbull Veterans Center Project

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Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Welcomes $900k for Trumbull Veterans Center Project

TRUMBULL – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox applauded the approval of $900,000 for the Trumbull Veterans and First Responder Center project. The State Bond Commission approved the funding unanimously on Thursday.

The project is in Phase 2 and the building committee worked together with Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox to apply for this supplemental state funding, as the project has struggled with the rising cost of construction.

Once completed, the center will be a 5,500 square-foot multi-use facility for Trumbull and the region’s veterans, first responders, small businesses, civic groups and residents. Professional staff will offer access to job training and career development, healthcare and more. The facility will be available for use by local organizations, and for rent for social functions like weddings, showers and birthdays, which will provide a stream of income to fund operational expenses and programs.

“This funding is a great example of a strong state and local partnership and I’m proud that we were able to secure this funding to better support the brave men and women who served our country,” said Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox. “I am grateful to First Selectwoman Tesoro and Chairman Ray Baldwin for their vision and leadership in getting this tremendous project underway, and to the State Bond Commission for approving these critical funds.”

“I want to thank Senator Gadkar Wilcox for her leadership in securing this critical supplemental funding. I also thank Representative Keitt who was a strong advocate for these funds and the entire delegation. With the continued efforts of our Building committee and community we hope to go to vertical construction in the spring,” said Trumbull First Selectwoman Vicki Tesoro.

“I very much appreciate the leadership of Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox in getting this done for us, with the support of Representatives Keitt and Rutigliano,” said Building Committee Chairman Raymond Baldwin Jr. “The Senator has embraced and championed this important project, and I also appreciate the Governor’s support and consideration. The State has been a strong partner to the Trumbull Veterans & First Responders Center and this project will help the center serve 30,000 veterans in the greater Trumbull area.”

Sen. Cohen, Reps. Comey, Rader Welcome $100k for Branford Food Pantry

Posted on by sdozapier@senatedems.ct.gov

Sen. Cohen, Reps. Comey, Rader Welcome $100k for Branford Food Pantry

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

BRANFORD – Today, State Senator Christine Cohen and State Representatives Robin Comey and Moira Rader welcomed $100,000 for the Branford Food Pantry. The state Bond Commission voted unanimously on Thursday to approve the funding.
 
Senator Cohen and Representatives Comey and Rader submitted requests to the Bond Commission for this funding. The funding will replace aging infrastructure at the Branford Food Pantry, specifically an aging conveyor belt which moves thousands of pounds of food into the Food Pantry everyday. The food pantry will also use these funds to upgrade their flooring to a commercial grade flooring for durability and to comply with health regulations.
 
The Branford Food Pantry provides groceries to over 200 families every week and provides critical support to Branford families in need:

  • More than 30% of Branford students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs
  • 1 in 6 residents struggle with food insecurity
  • 4,272 Branford households are struggling to make ends meet, 39% of all households
  • Branford is also the home to as many as 3,852 Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) families with an additional 874 families living in poverty.

 
“I am so pleased that the Bond Commission approved this vital funding that will help the Branford Food Pantry continue to support our families in need,” said Sen. Christine Cohen (D-Branford, Guilford, Madison, Killingworth, Durham, East Haven, North Branford, Middlefield). “Families everywhere are feeling the strain of higher prices, and the work of the Branford Food Pantry has never been so important. I’m grateful to Jaye and her team for their work, and to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for approving this funding.”
 
“The Branford Food Pantry plays a vital role in supporting families and seniors in our town and I’m proud to support this $100,000 bonding allocation. This investment reflects the strength of our partnership between state government and local organizations serving our most vulnerable residents. When we work together, we can deliver real, meaningful support to those who need it most,” said Rep. Robin Comey (D-Branford).
 
“Food insecurity is a real and growing challenge for many across our communities, including far too many right here in Branford,” said Rep. Moira Rader (D-Branford & Guilford). “This funding will help ensure that the Branford Food Pantry can continue to serve families with dignity, safety, and efficiency at a time when demand remains high. I’m grateful to the Bond Commission, Governor Lamont, and my legislative colleagues for supporting this investment, and to the dedicated staff and volunteers who show up every day to support our neighbors in need.” 
 
“Approval of this bond issue on behalf of the Branford Food Pantry means so much to us,” said Jaye Andrews, President of the Branford Food Pantry. “We are located on the basement level and each week we move thousands of pounds of food in and out of the Pantry as we serve over 200 Branford households struggling to make ends meet. This funding will enable us to replace our ancient conveyor system—our life line for moving so much food—with a safe and reliable conveyor. Additionally, we are able to make interior improvements which will provide a cleaner, healthier environment for our clients and the dozens of volunteers that make the Branford Food Pantry come to life. We are truly grateful to everyone who stood up for our 100% volunteer organization and our community to make this funding possible.”

 

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $3.8 MILLION STATE BOND COMMISSION INVESTMENT IN RENTSCHLER FIELD

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Senator Anwar

EAST HARTFORD DELEGATION WELCOMES $3.8 MILLION STATE BOND COMMISSION INVESTMENT IN RENTSCHLER FIELD

Today, the East Hartford delegation of lawmakers including State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford, Manchester), State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) and State Representative Patrick Biggins (D-East Hartford, Manchester) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $3.8 million to be used for upgrades and improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.

The funds will be used to improve security, communications, television broadcast and audio-visual upgrades at the stadium and field. The site is the home stadium of the UConn Huskies football team, also host to events including international soccer games and concerts. It is owned by the state.

“The state’s continued investments in Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field will be directly beneficial for the University of Connecticut, East Hartford community and numerous football fans, whether they’re at the stadium or watching from home,” said Sen. Anwar. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their consideration.”

“I thank the Governor and the Bond Commission for approving funding for continued improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field,” said Majority Leader Rojas. “From hosting local, national, and international events to serving as the home of an undefeated UConn football season, The Rent in East Hartford is a point of pride for our state, and investing in modern upgrades ensures a safe, accessible, and first-class experience for fans and visitors alike.”

“We are grateful for the funds granted to finance critical upgrades and improvements to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field,” said Rep. Genga. “These investments will support a wide range of enhancements, including strengthened security; upgraded communications systems; and modernized television broadcast capabilities. This support ensures the stadium can continue to serve the community safely, efficiently, and at a high standard.”

“Rentschler Field has become part of the fabric of East Hartford and Connecticut,” Rep. Biggins said. “The home to our beloved UConn Huskies football team has provided many memorable moments, including this season. We must ensure that the facility is in optimal condition for the football program and the many fans who visit. So, the upgrades and improvements are necessary and welcome. I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving the funds to ensure The Rent stays on top of its game for many years to come.”

 
 

Maroney, Looney & Duff Oppose Trump Executive Order to Block State AI Regulations

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Maroney, Looney & Duff Oppose Trump Executive Order to Block State AI Regulations

Today, state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford), Chair of the General Law Committee,Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven), and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) are releasing a statement following Trump’s new executive order blocking states from enforcing their own regulations around AI.

“With the gridlock in DC, states have been the only ones to act to defend their residents from harms of social media, and this executive order would prevent states from acting to defend their residents from potential harms of AI,” said Sen. Maroney. “We will not harness the full potential of this technology until the majority of people feel safe in using it, and this order is a major step in the wrong direction.”

“Connecticut and several other states have been leading the way in establishing common sense AI standards that protect workers, consumers, and children in everyday life,” said Sen. Looney. “Preventing states from regulating artificial intelligence exposes people to dangerous decisions, allows companies to operate without accountability, increases the likelihood of errors, and widens inequality. We will continue to champion strong, thoughtful regulation that ensures the public feels safe using these powerful technologies.”

“Donald Trump’s executive order on artificial intelligence is not about innovation or public safety. It is about enriching millionaires and billionaires at the expense of working people,” said Senator Duff. “States have stepped up where Congress has failed to protect people online, and Trump and his billionaire allies in Big Tech are afraid of that progress. By trying to strip states of their authority, this order would leave the public more vulnerable to discrimination, unsafe content, and reckless decision-making by powerful tech platforms. Executive orders are not law, and this unconstitutional overreach will be challenged in court. Like so many of Trump’s past wannabe authoritarian type actions, I expect this order to end up in the ash heap of defeated executive orders.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michelle Rappaport | Michelle.Rappaport@cga.ct.gov| 860-240-8671

SENATOR ANWAR ISSUES STATEMENT FOLLOWING CONFIRMATION OF FIRST MEASLES CASE IN CONNECTICUT SINCE 2021

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Senator Anwar

SENATOR ANWAR ISSUES STATEMENT FOLLOWING CONFIRMATION OF FIRST MEASLES CASE IN CONNECTICUT SINCE 2021

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), Senate Chair of the Public Health Committee, issued the following statement after the Department of Public Health confirmed the first case of measles in Connecticut since 2021. An unvaccinated child under the age of 10 in Fairfield County contracted the disease following international travel, the DPH said.

“As a physician, a state senator, and a parent, I am deeply concerned by the report of a confirmed measles case involving a young child here in Connecticut. My thoughts and prayers are with this child and their family, and I am hoping for a full and speedy recovery.

Measles is a highly contagious illness, and I am worried about the risk of further spread, especially to infants, immunocompromised individuals, and others who are most vulnerable in our community. This moment calls for calm, vigilance, and compassion, not fear.

Connecticut’s strong vaccination rates and public health response give us reason for confidence, and I urge families to stay informed, follow guidance from the Department of Public Health, and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Protecting one another, especially our children, is both a medical responsibility and a moral one.

I will continue to work closely with our public health leaders to support prevention efforts, protect access to care, and keep our communities safe.”

SENATOR ANWAR RELEASES STATEMENT AFTER CERTIFICATE OF NEED IN HARTFORD HEALTHCARE ACQUISITION OF MANCHESTER, ROCKVILLE HOSPITALS APPROVED

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Senator Anwar

SENATOR ANWAR RELEASES STATEMENT AFTER CERTIFICATE OF NEED IN HARTFORD HEALTHCARE ACQUISITION OF MANCHESTER, ROCKVILLE HOSPITALS APPROVED

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

December 10, 2025

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), Senate Chair of the Public Health Committee, released the following statement in response to Wednesday’s approval of an emergency Certificate of Need regarding Hartford Healthcare’s acquisition of Manchester Memorial Hospital in Manchester and Rockville General Hospital in Vernon.

Under some conditions of the Certificate, Hartford Healthcare will be required to assess community health needs, operate a 24/7 emergency department in Vernon for at least three years after purchase, maintain current inpatient behavioral health services, maintain or enhance currently offered services, keep those services active and forego the conversion of any outpatient, non-hospital physician services for at least three years after acquisition.

“Today’s decision means something very real for our community: hospital doors staying open, neighbors keeping their jobs, and families knowing they can still get the care they need close to home,” said Sen. Anwar. “As a physician and as someone who lives and serves here, I’ll be working closely with our healthcare systems to make this transition smooth and to make sure people are treated with the dignity, stability and quality of care they deserve.”

SENATORS LOONEY, DUFF, ANWAR RESPOND TO HEPATITIS B VACCINE RECOMMENDATION CHANGE BY FEDERAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

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SENATORS LOONEY, DUFF, ANWAR RESPOND TO HEPATITIS B VACCINE RECOMMENDATION CHANGE BY FEDERAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

December 5, 2025
 
Today, Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), Senate Chair of the Public Health Committee, responded with concern and alarm to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s decision to end universal recommendations for newborn vaccination against hepatitis B.

The advisory committee, which saw its membership replaced earlier this year by Health and Human Services Secretary and known vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr., voted to change a 34-year-old standard for all newborns to be vaccinated against hepatitis B, which can cause lifelong chronic injury and complications that can lead to death among those infected as infants. The new policy only recommends newborn vaccination if a mother tests positive for hepatitis B or does not test for the virus, ignoring that newborns and infants can be exposed to viruses in many other ways than maternal contact.
 
“I am deeply troubled by this morning’s CDC advisory panel vote to abandon universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns,” said Senate President Martin Looney. “This decision reverses decades of proven public health policy that has prevented millions of infections and saved countless lives. We will work to ensure that our state’s immunization policies continue to protect our most vulnerable infants from a preventable, potentially deadly disease. Secretary Kennedy and President Trump are turning the CDC into a platform for conspiracy theories and placing American lives at risk.”
 
“The CDC panel’s decision this morning to roll back newborn hepatitis B vaccine recommendations is a reckless departure from evidence-based medicine,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “The hepatitis B vaccine has reduced infections in children by 99 percent since the early 1990s, and there is no legitimate scientific reason to change course now. Connecticut’s healthcare providers and families deserve clear, science-based guidance that prioritizes children’s health and safety. Connecticut will not follow Trump and Kennedy down this dangerous path of vaccine denial.”

“Since universal newborn vaccination against hepatitis B was first recommended in 1991, rates of infection among children and teens have plummeted. That’s evidence of lives saved, illness avoided and the overwhelming success of this universal standard,” said Senator Anwar. “According to the American Public Health Association, this policy has prevented more than half a million infections and 90,000 deaths in the last 30 years. Ending a standard with such obvious benefits is outlandish and disturbing, and when even members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices itself are questioning their peers, it makes any future decisions from that body difficult, if not impossible, to trust.”
 

Contact – Kevin Coughlin – kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov