Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) joined the first meeting of the Coastal Caucus, a bipartisan group co-chaired by State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford) and State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Fairfield). The caucus, announced shortly after Governor Ned Lamont signed an executive order strengthening Connecticut’s response to climate change, is designed to help lawmakers and stakeholders better understand the issues impacting coastal towns and cities and state waterways. Its first meeting Monday focused on resilience in the face of climate change.
“Our rapidly changing environment, and the coastline it threatens, isn’t a Democratic problem or a Republican problem. It’s a Connecticut problem. That’s why I’m honored to join the Coastal Caucus, as I know the issues impacting Connecticut’s coastline will have a direct effect on my constituents,” said Sen. Haskell. “Today’s inaugural meeting made clear that it’s not too late for us to take action. I learned from the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation about how we can begin to address flooding and other issues facing homeowners and businesses located near the Long Island Sound. I look forward to our next meeting.”
The 40-member Coastal Caucus was formed to tackle state needs regarding Connecticut’s proximity to the Long Island Sound and other waterways. Expected issues to be discussed in future meetings include coastal resilience, ending offshore contamination from energy and waste, and supporting aquaculture, fisheries and marine wildlife. Further pertinent issues related to coastal health and wellness will also receive attention in future meetings. The next meeting will be December 3, 2019 at 1 p.m. in the Legislative Office Building.