Senate Bill 364, An Act Concerning Traffic Stop Information, contains several provisions to augment legislation passed by the late Senator Alvin Penn from Bridgeport to compile and analyze data to determine racial bias in traffic stops and penalties. The Racial Profiling Act was passed in 1999 but has not been implemented consistently across Connecticut.

‘It’s about time we give this law the structure for proper state-wide implementation,” Rep. Charlie Stallworth said. “It is unfortunate it took this many years for proper legislative action, but I am very pleased to be a part of it.”

“With the recent documented and statistically significant proof that racial profiling exists in Connecticut, supporting this bill made sense.  The law needed strengthening and we have done that today,” Rep. Jack Hennessy said.

“This bill provides the language and framework that ensures these numbers need to be reported and that all Police departments are participating,” Rep. Andres Ayala said. “It has been thirteen years since the passage of the original legislation, so it appears this is the only avenue we had to ensure compliance.”

“This will finally allow Connecticut to systematically collect the information in the quantities needed for proper evaluation and policy decision making,” Rep. Auden Grogins said.

“The information gathered throughout the state will allow us to determine and address problem areas that would otherwise be allowed to continue with business as usual,” Rep. Don Clemons said. “I look forward to a more informed state and more honest and equitable enforcement of traffic laws.”

A recent analysis of more than 100,000 traffic stops by dozens of local police departments in 2011 found that black and Hispanic drivers are significantly more likely to receive a ticket or a court date than white drivers stopped for the same offense.

In order to address issues cited by law enforcement authorities across the state as a hindrance to data collection and submission, provisions of the bill include:

• Having the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) collect, compile and analyze data
• Creating a standard form across all police departments to make data collection easier and more consistent
• Training for police officers in the use and completion of the standard form
• Submitting an annual profiling report to the Governor, General Assembly and other pertinent parties
• Allows OPM to recommend an appropriate penalty, including the withholding of state funds, against a department that does not comply with the traffic stop provisions

El Representante estatal Juan Candelaria (D-New Haven) originalmente presento la medida en el 2011. Sin embargo, fue este año que logró que el comité judicial de la legislatura la incluyera en la agenda que exitosamente se aprobó. Candelaria, quien habló a favor de la propuesta en el hemiciclo durante el debate explicó, “Nuestra comunidad ha sido victima de notarios públicos que han utilizado su sello para proveer consejo legal no correcto cobrando altas sumas de dinero por servicio no autorizado. En nuestros países, un notario público por lo general ejerce la profesión de abogado y algunos notarios públicos del estado tomaron ventaja de esto. Esta ley, cuidará a nuestra población latina de futuros abusos.”

El Rep. Andrés Ayala (D-Bridgeport) quien apoyo la ley que protegerá a las comunidades mas vulnerables a esta practica comentó, “Es lamentable que individuos sin escrúpulos ni ética profesional hayan victimizado a personas en nuestra comunidad. Un notario publico que no es abogado, no tiene la preparación académica o necesaria para representar a clientes en asuntos legales.”

El Rep. Hector Robles (D-Hartford) señaló, “Estoy muy complacido de haber respaldado esta propuesta. Recibí llamadas de personas que fueron victimas y hoy estamos mas cerca de resolver este asunto.”

“El abuso en contra de aquellos que no conocen la ley y que no se saben defender no se puede permitir. Esta ley envía un mensaje claro de que tomamos esto muy en serio,” manifestó la Rep. Minnie González (D-Hartford).

El Rep. Kelvin Roldan (D-Hartford) citó, “Estoy muy satisfecho de apoyar una ley que protege a la comunidad y a la vez protege a los abogados, notarios y abogados notarios legítimos.”

El Rep. Ezequiel Santiago (D-Bridgeport) dijo, “Ya era tiempo de detener el abuso en contra de una comunidad sensible y que confía en anuncios confusos que los convierten en victimas.”

“Estoy de acuerdo con mis colegas en definir claramente y sin lugar a duda los que son abogados-notarios legítimos y los que son solamente notarios públicos,” expresó el Rep. Robert Sanchez (D-New Britain).

El Rep. David Aldarondo (D-Waterbury) dijo, “Esta ley proveerá a los oficiales una herramienta útil para proteger a nuestra gente hispana.”

La ley, HB 5147 requiere que si un notario público no es abogado, tendrá que explícitamente incluirlo en cualquier anuncio que utilice para promover sus servicios. Esto evitara, que personas falsamente crean que el notario público es también abogado. Violadores de la ley serán sujetos a multas de $250.00 y/o dos meses de encarcelamiento.

“This extension helps the City of Bridgeport with another tool in the tool box to ensure we can make Steel Point happen.  Steel Point is an extremely important project for the city and as a delegation we want to make sure we give the administration the support they need to move forward,” Rep. Andres Ayala said.

“Steel point should be a major hub of maritime economic activity for Bridgeport,” Rep. Stallworth said. “We cannot avert our attention from the goal of making a developed waterfront part of our city’s landscape and this bill keeps the project alive.”

“I am pleased to support this critical funding for this project. Making Steel Point a reality is essential to Bridgeport's economic recovery,” Rep. Grogins said.

“It seems that everybody is waiting for the Steel Point Project to happen; all the traffic traveling on I95 through Bridgeport looks out to the empty expanse, year after the year, wondering when it'll be Bridgeport’s turn to turn around.  This bill helps keep the promise alive,” Rep. Hennessy said.

“For as long as I can remember, this parcel of prime harbor property has lain dormant. If Bridgeport is to enjoy a renaissance of economic prosperity, it cannot be without development and leveraging of the economic potential of this tract of land,” Rep. Clemons said.

“I truly believe that we will need no more extensions after this due to the progress that has been made to this point. We have resources in place such as the TIF and a commitment from the state to be an economic partner with the developer, Bridgeport Landing Development LLC, and the City of Bridgeport to make this project a reality. Permitting is moving forward and we are nearing the point where shovels meet the ground and a multi-million dollar mixed use development rises on prime waterfront property,” Rep. Santiago said.

“The developer has made major investments on the site and within the community and intends to see this project through. The Bridgeport Delegation is doing everything in its power to help facilitate a project we believe will jumpstart other proposed projects like the $500 million mixed use development on the Remington site. These projects have the potential to have huge positive impacts on the city’s tax rolls which is one of the best ways to provide relief to Bridgeport taxpayers while creating temporary and permanent jobs,” Rep. Santiago added.

The legislation extends, from June 30, 2012 to June 30, 2015, the deadline by which the Department of Economic and Community Development, Connecticut Development Authority and Connecticut Innovations, Inc. may provide up to $40 million in financial assistance from existing programs to the Steel Point project.

As under current law, the assistance must be used for developing and improving property in Bridgeport’s Steel Point.

“I heard from many of my constituents on the importance of supporting this legislation,” Ayala said. “Even a small increase during this difficult economic climate goes a long way for many working families in the state.”

House Bill 5291 would raise Connecticut’s minimum wage by $.50 to $8.75 per hour in two steps. The minimum wage would increase from the current rate of $8.25 to $8.50 on January 1, 2013, and then to $8.75 on January 1, 2014. The legislation also includes minor adjustments to the minimum wage for restaurant wait-staff and bartenders who receive tips.

Although the minimum wage has been raised seventeen times since 1979 it has effectively decreased by 11 percent when adjusted for the cost of living.

A recent Quinnipiac poll indicates that 70% of Connecticut residents support raising the minimum wage.

Ayala noted, 106,000 workers in Connecticut earn minimum wage – almost 7 percent of our entire workforce. The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.

“I have been working with constituents who are grandparents and are currently experiencing visitation issues and this bill will give them an opportunity to petition the court for that right,” Rep. Ayala said. “This bill will help give them access to their grandchildren and play a role in their raising. I firmly believe the more caring, loving and interested individuals in a child’s life the better the chances at success.”

House Bill 5540, based on recommendations of a task force on grandparents’ visitation rights, gives grandparents and other third parties a defined process for seeking visitation rights via court petition. The legislation is in response to a Connecticut Supreme Court ruling that denied a visitation petition, which had previously been approved by a lower court.

Specifically the legislation requires a grandparents’ visitation petition to include a showing of specific information including the existence of a parent-like relationship and activities, and that a denial of visitation rights could cause harm to the child. The bill then requires a court to hold a hearing and grant the request if clear and convincing evidence has shown such conditions exist.

The state Department of Children and Families participated on the task force and supports the bill which they said, “balances the constitutional right of parents to make decisions in the best interests of their children, with the desire of grandparents to be an important part of their grandchildren’s lives.”

The bill now goes to the Senate for approval.

The forum is sponsored by Governor Dannel Malloy, Attorney General George Jepsen and the Connecticut Department of Banking. It is designed to help people who are having difficulties with their mortgages and allow them to make direct contact with lenders.

“I encourage everyone who is facing possible foreclosure to attend this event to learn about prevention, loan modification, federal programs and several other resources put in place to assist during this critical economic time.” Ayala said. “It is a good opportunity to meet face to face with professional lenders who are willing to work with you to find alternatives to foreclosure.”

Parking for those attending is free on outdoor surface lots directly across from Webster Arena and Harbor Yard.

To avoid waiting, find out if you may pre-register with your lender at www.ct.gov/dob/homeowner or by calling 860-240-8170 or 877-472-8313.

Senate Bill 364, An Act Concerning Traffic Stop Information, contains several provisions to effectuate legislation passed by the late Senator Alvin Penn from Bridgeport to compile and analyze data to determine racial bias in traffic stops and penalties. The Racial Profiling Act was passed in 2003 but has not been implemented consistently across Connecticut.

“I am glad to see the bill pass this first hurdle, as a delegation we will continue to work to ensure our constituents are not being stopped just because they are African American or Latino. As we have seen with the example of East Haven, profiling does occur. We must protect our citizens and this legislation helps us to do that,” Rep. Andres Ayala said.

“Connecticut has had a decade to implement a consistent plan of data collection and it is unfortunate that we are still struggling to make that happen,” Rep. Charlie Stallworth said. “Let’s us delay no longer and pass this legislation this session to contribute to a more fair and just system.”

“Having the Office of Policy and Management handle the data collection and analysis is key to generating useful reports,” Rep. Auden Grogins said. “I will support this legislation and hope to see it signed into law.”

“Being a member of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, I am pleased to see that my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee agreed there is inequity in the state with racial profiling and revisited Alvin Penn’s legislation that has been on the books so long,” Rep. Don Clemons said. “The new provisions will facilitate implementation and will bring our police departments into compliance by bringing in the Office of Policy and Management and the Criminal Justice Information System Governing Board to oversee and make sure police departments are doing their jobs.”

“I remember, more than one time, where in my opinion I have been a victim of racial profiling which left me feeling very vulnerable to racism. No one should be made to feel this way, nor should anyone be allowed to behave in this manner towards others based on racial bias. I applaud the Judiciary Committee for passing this legislation. I also hope it makes it through the remaining legislative process and is eventually signed into law by the Governor,” Rep. Ezequiel Santiago said.

“Profiling can exist in towns as well as the cities,” Rep. Jack Hennessy said. “This legislation protects everyone against bias in traffic stops and penalties.”

A recent published analysis of more than 100,000 traffic stops by dozens of local police departments in 2011 found that black and Hispanic drivers are significantly more likely to receive a ticket or a court date than white drivers stopped for the same offense.

In order to address issues cited by law enforcement authorities across the state as a hindrance to data collection and submission, provisions of the bill include:

• Having the Office of Policy and Management collect, compile and analyze data
• Creating a standard form across all police departments to make data collection easier and more consistent
• Training for police officers in the use and completion of the standard form
• Submitting an annual profiling report to the Governor, General Assembly and other pertinent parties

The task force will be responsible for setting objectives to improve the way Connecticut educates its English Language Learners regarding use of the English language by enhancing programs, increasing accessibility and training instructors with proper methods.

“Given the importance of the education reform legislation we are looking at this session, I find this task force couldn’t have been timelier for exploring ways to enhance this critical component of education,” Rep. Ayala said. “Learning proper English and finding ways to ensure students get the best possible experience is critical to moving forward with successful reform.”

“With Governor Malloy declaring 2012 the year of education reform, this is the perfect time to begin carefully looking at how we educate Connecticut students whose home language isn't English" said Rep. Susan Johnson. “I’m especially interested in examining ways that English language programs for these students may be incorporated into the curriculum to address the state’s achievement gap.”

The task force will convene a panel of experts from around the state to share best practices and ideas which will help craft meaningful legislation to assist students, faculty and administrators.

Members of the task force will include co-chairs of the legislature’s Education Committee and members of local education boards across the state.

“This is an extraordinary milestone for our region,” Ayala said. “As we move forward in such a competitive workforce, and given the new and exciting job growth opportunities in the state, a higher education manufacturing center is great news. I applaud this effort and commitment by the Board of Regents and those involved in making this happen.”

Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury and Quinebaug Valley Community College in Danielson were selected by the BOR based on their ability to establish or expand manufacturing technology programs and their commitment to precision manufacturing.

The college has undertaken several initiatives to create a strong manufacturing anchor in southwest Connecticut and has offered associate degree programs that range from manufacturing processes to Computer Numeric Control (CNC). Over the last three years, HCC has also been actively engaged in communicating with manufacturers in its service area and has identified industry workforce partners.

HCC has developed a 2,400-square-foot state-of-the-art manufacturing labs for credit and non-credit programs. The HCC Advanced Manufacturing Center will include computer labs, milling and lathe machines, CNC machines, rapid prototypers and a welding center. The college is also in the final stages of planning an engineering and design studio to complement the lab. This will enable the college to significantly broaden its technology programs and course offerings

Enrollment in HCC’s technical programs has increased over the last several years, as they provide pathways for students interested in engineering, manufacturing and technology to transfer to four-year programs at Central Connecticut State University, the University of Connecticut and Fairfield University.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy issued a scathing statement Wednesday morning ripping East Haven Mayor Joseph Maturo for telling a TV reporter Tuesday afternoon that his plan to reach out to the Latino community in the wake of a racial profiling scandal in the town's police department was to go home and eat a taco.

"The comments by East Haven Mayor Joseph Maturo are repugnant," Malloy said. "They represent either a horrible lack of judgment or worse, an underlying insensitivity to our Latino community that is unacceptable. Being tired is no excuse. He owes an apology to the community, and more importantly, he needs to show what he's going to do to repair the damage he's done. And he needs to do it today."

Maturo's comments came just hours after four East Haven police officers were arrested by the FBI on charges of civil rights violations and obstruction of justice. WPIX11²s Mario Diaz asked Mayor Joseph Maturo, "What are you doing for the Latino community today?"

The mayor, a Republican who defeated Democrat incumbent April Capone by a slim 34 vote margin in November, replied, "I might have tacos when I go home, I'm not quite sure yet."

Diaz said the mayor apologized for his comments and said it was "out of context."

During the interview, Maturo also said he didn't "get (Diaz's) point" when the reporter stated there is only one Spanish-speaking officer in the 50-member department in a community with a large Latino population.

Wednesday morning, speaking on WPLR-FM's Chaz and AJ morning show, Maturo said "It was stupid, it was insensitive and I gave my detractors... a reason to make matters worse with a `gotcha' and an insensitive and stupid answer to something I should have never said."

Maturo said the radio interview would be the first and only interview he would give today. "I think I got myself in enough hot water yesterday," he said.

Later in the day, Maturo issued a statement apologizing for his comments.

"Unfortunately, I let the stress of the situation get the best of me and inflamed what is already a serious and unfortunate situation," Maturo said. "I regret my insensitive comment and realize that it is my job to lead by example."

The mayor said the "community needs to refocus on healing together." He said the administration has taken steps in that process, creating an advisory committee to the mayor named "LEARN" (Law Enforcement Advisory Resource Network) to update the policies and procedures of the police department. The board includes Jose Velasquez, a community volunteer and native of Puerto Rico. Already, the committee has presented plans including a more accessible civilian complaint procedure and the publishing of updated civilian complaint forms in both English and Spanish, Maturo said.

" I am dedicated to the principles of tolerance and acceptance of all and will do all that I can to foster those principles in the daily execution of my duties as Mayor," said Maturo. "I ask this community to have faith in me and in our community as we address the challenges arising out of the past days' events."

State Rep. Andres Ayala of Bridgeport, who is Puerto Rican, spoke out Wednesday against Maturo's comments, saying he was "completely appalled."

"We are not going to rest until he issues an apology to the entire Latino community and further tells us about his plan to amend a reasonable relationship with our community," Ayala said. "It is outrageous to hear a public elected official make remarks that offend and hurt the very same people he serves. His lack of sensitivity and poor judgment is unacceptable."

Though the bulk of the fire directed at Maturo Wednesday came from the Latino community and from Democratic lawmakers, the mayor also came under criticism from the conservative Yankee Institute for Public Policy, which highlighted a recent appeal Maturo filed with the state Retirement Services Division in which he asked to continue receiving a disability pension in addition to his salary as mayor.

The mayor had been receiving the pension because of an injury he sustained while working as an East Haven firefighter, but had been told by the state that he was no longer eligible for the pension after being sworn in as mayor in November.

The working-class community of 28,000 set along the Long Island Sound shoreline, has seen its Latino population double in the past decade, creating racial tensions, according to advocates of the Latino population.

The town first came into the spotlight in 2009, when a local priest, Father James Manship, was arrested while videotaping police officers allegedly harassing owners of a Latino market. Manship, whose parish is mainly Latino, became a loud voice against the town's police department.

Maturo, first elected in 1997, served as the town's Mayor for 10 years before losing to Capone in 2007. It took a recount for him to lose his seat, and another recount, this time in his favor, to get the top spot in town hall back in 2011.

Capone, who refused to publicly support the police department during the federal investigation and suspended police chief Leonard Gallo, was given a no-confidence vote by the town's police department prior to her loss to Maturo.

Upon taking office, Maturo put Gallo back in charge and said he didn't believe the police department had done anything wrong.

Tuesday, federal agents arrested four town police officers, Dennis Spaulding, David Cari, and Jason Zullo and Sgt. John Miller, accusing them of executing unreasonable search and seizures, making false arrests and using intimidation against local religious leaders, members of the Latino community, fellow police officers and police commissioners investigating them.

The four men have entered not guilty pleas. U.S. Attorney David B. Fein says the investigation is open and ongoing, and more arrests may be made.

Maturo said Tuesday he stands by his officers and police department.

“I am completely appalled by East Haven Mayor Joseph Maturo’s racially charged comments. We are not going to rest until he issues an apology to the entire Latino community and further tells us about his plan to amend a reasonable relationship with our community. It is outrageous to hear a public elected official make remarks that offend and hurt the very same people he serves. His lack of sensitivity and poor judgment is unacceptable.”

“The site of this second rail station will spur further economic development. Currently, the City of Bridgeport has numerous projects in this area which would be well served by the second station,” Rep. Ayala said. “This could be the spark which ignites further investment opportunities and better jobs and housing for our residents. As chairman of the Bonding Subcommittee on Transportation I am pleased to see this project move forward.”

“This project will address one of the barriers to economic activity which is lack of access to public transportation,” Rep. Clemons said. “This project encompasses blight, pollution and transportation with increased avenues for economic activity. This is money well-spent and I am eager to see the work begin.”

"The state’s investment in the revitalization of this significant brownfield property is essential to our future economic success. Giving additional access to our Bridgeport commuters to New York and other major Connecticut cities is key to making Bridgeport a destination city. It is also a key factor in drawing more businesses to our area and making Bridgeport more attractive as a residential community,” Rep. Grogins said. “With the prior attention having been given to Fairfield’s new train station, I am excited and hopeful that the prospect of a new train station in Bridgeport will shift the focus for future economic development in our city."

“It’s good to see that Bridgeport is getting its fair share of state dollars,” Rep. Hennessy said. “Brownfield remediation is long overdue.  This project will spur economic development in a blighted area of this city.”

“Cleaning contaminated brownfield sites and putting them back into productive use will be a key factor in our efforts to increase the cities taxable grand list. This is an effective way to provide tax relief for our property and business owners,” Rep. Santiago said. “Adding to our public transportation infrastructure will help lower our carbon footprint, while the additional commuter traffic will provide opportunity for increased business at existing venues as well as a greater need for new businesses to be established.”

“This contaminated brownfield has been dormant for many years and it is great to see it finally getting some attention,” Rep. Stallworth said. “When you combine the remediation with a new train station, Bridgeport and residents are poised to reap many benefits from this project.”

The funds will support on site remediation efforts on the 7-acre parcel on Barnum Avenue and will help with the area’s revitalization initiatives. Bridgeport was the successful recipient of a Sustainable Communities Grant Award to explore the feasibility of a second station at this site. The planned station will serve to expand transportation options for commuters that have difficulties accessing the current downtown station.

We take great exception to the legislative Republican Congressional redistricting plan that moves the City of Bridgeport from the 4th to the 3rd Congressional District. The attempt - disguised as strengthening minority influence by increasing the number of minority residents in the 3rd District is nothing more than a political maneuver designed to create a Republican stronghold in the 4th.

One goal of redistricting is to strengthen minority influence in as many districts as possible. Currently, four of our five Congressional districts have significant minority influence. The Republican proposal runs counter to that philosophy, reducing minority influence in two districts.

Also, under their scheme, Republicans maintain that Bridgeport would join New Haven as a “community of interest.” In fact, for decades we have shared interests - economic, social, political - with the cities and towns of Fairfield County and the 4th Congressional District. Those ties are strong, and should remain so.

Finally, the 4th has been represented by Democrats and Republicans over the years. Until recently, it was dominated for decades by Republican representation. Republican efforts to configure this district as their own are transparent and unworthy of the process.

Bridgeport's own Robert DeForest represented Connecticut's 4th District in Southwest Connecticut over a hundred years ago. Bipartisan teams of redistricters have kept Bridgeport in the Fairfield County-based 4th District since the modern process began in 1965. We strongly urge the redistricting panel or judges, whoever may ultimately decide, to recognize Bridgeport’s central and historic role in Fairfield County and keep it in the 4th Congressional District. The issues facing Bridgeport and all of Fairfield County are too important to be lost in an unnecessary political shuffle.

“I am very excited to support this Jobs bill which focuses on helping small businesses and reduces their tax burden. As a small business owner for the past 22 years, I can honestly say that this bill will help sustain and expand existing businesses, stimulate job growth and attract new business entrepreneurs to Connecticut,” Rep. Grogins said. “I also look forward to welcoming Jackson Labs to Connecticut. Their success will be our success. This state of the art facility for research and testing in genomic medicine will create thousands of job opportunities in the area of bio-science for Connecticut residents, and put our state on the world map in this rapidly growing field.”

“I am pleased to support this bill because many of my constituents have emphatically stressed to me the importance of jobs,” Rep. Ayala said. “The State of Connecticut is not just standing by any longer - we are providing leadership to create jobs to get through this rough economy and to prepare CT for a brighter future.”

"Although I am very pleased with the legislation to help create jobs and bring Jackson Labs to Ct, I believe we need to stimulate economic development in our urban centers, especially Bridgeport. I am glad we are moving forward to begin the process of cleaning up our Brownfield properties. We need to get these old industrial sites back and contributing to the future of CT,” Rep. Hennessy said.

“These bills were made into law in order to both make the necessary investments in infrastructure which allows CT to be the home of one of the most technologically advanced research facilities in the world and to incentivize training and job creation in the private sector,” Rep. Santiago said. “These are steps which are necessary to take advantage of the budding bioscience industry and to assure the private sector that CT is indeed open for business and that the Legislature is willing to work towards a friendlier business climate. I plan to work to ensure that the people and businesses in Bridgeport take full advantage the resources made available through this legislation.”

"I'm glad to see us take a strong act concerning an issue that is important to all of us -- jobs. Though this is not a perfect step, it is a giant step in a direction that is good for the citizens of Connecticut,” Rep. Stallworth said. “These two bills will have a great impact on employment in particular and the economy in general, as well as a great step in the area of medical research."

“These two pieces of legislation follow what the governor was committed to for economic development to attract business in the state, put people back to work, and jump start the economy,” Rep. Clemons said.

“Also, Jackson Labs will make the state competitive with others in the biomedical field.  Hopefully, the research will lead to personalized treatment and more effective combating and curing of today’s and tomorrow’s diseases.”

The goal of the legislation is to jump-start job creation and foster long-term economic growth. Incentives for small business, cutting red tape, incentives for innovation, economic development tools and workforce development and training are all addressed in the bill.

One of the key components of the legislation is the Small Business Express Package which will make $50 million/year available to small businesses through incentives, grants and loans.

Another vital component is aligning programs at vo-tech schools, community colleges and universities with high demand job needs of employers, including the state’s manufacturing technology companies.

Other components of the jobs bill include:

• Consolidating and increasing the tax credit for new hires
• Incentivizing investments in emerging technology (Angel Investors)
• Building innovation centers in key cities and investing in innovative ventures
• A second “First Five” program
• Cutting the business entity tax
• Streamlining the business permitting process
• Remediating old industrial sites/brownfields
• Computer upgrades to foster seamless communication between business and the state
• Workforce development, education and training
• Allowing the  Airport Authority to designate new Development Zones
• Investments in roads and bridges
• Replenishing the Manufacturing Assistance Act (MAA)
• Main Street commercial centers improvement initiative

In addition, the legislature signed off on Jackson Laboratory’s plan to build a $1.1 billion research facility at the UConn Health Center campus in Farmington. The State of Connecticut will invest $291 million and Jackson Laboratory will raise the balance of $860 million for the project.

According to the state Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), the project is expected to create over 660 positions at Jackson Laboratory in Farmington within 20 years. DECD estimates more than 4,600 bioscience jobs would be generated through spin-off companies, and another 2,000 would be added to local service and area retail stores. The project would yield more than 840 construction jobs as well.

The free-admission festival will feature live music from various local groups, mariachi bands, arts & crafts, food and many special guests to make this a fun-filled day for the entire family.

“I encourage everyone to come join us Sunday, to celebrate Ecuadorian’s rich culture and support the efforts of this growing community in our city,” Ayala said.

WHAT: First Ecuadorian Festival

WHEN: Sunday, September 25th from 10am to 6pm

WHERE: Went Field Park in Bridgeport

For additional information please contact: Ligia Alvarado (203) 673-5795

“The Bridgeport port has always been an important tool for economic development for the City and will be the economic driver to spur further development. Housatonic Community College has always been an important partner with the City and, in these tough economic times, where our constituents are going back to school to further enhance their skills, it is important the school be able to continue expanding and enhancing their facility to meet student needs,” Rep. Ayala said.

“I would like for Bridgeport to regain its prominence as a major hub of maritime economic activity that its deep-water port afforded in its active years. Steel point harbor development has been a priority for some time as a jobs engine and to reduce congestion on our major thoroughfares,” Rep. Clemons said. “Housatonic community college is an excellent learning environment and integral part of the community that is steadily growing in enrollment from when I attended. I will continue to support investment in this school which is a key component of a viable community.”

“This important funding is critical to further Bridgeport’s economic development plan. These improvements will make Housatonic Community College a state of the art educational institution in our city. Investing in our deep water ports is valuable for Bridgeport’s future in making our city a key destination for tourism in Connecticut,” Rep. Grogins said.

“The funding for Housatonic will be to begin refurbishing the original tech building due to the anticipated continued increase in student enrollment. This school is important to the city as a gateway for Urban residents to access affordable higher education,” Rep. Hennessy said. “I am also pleased funding was allocated for a port study. This is long overdue as a port development goes hand-in-hand with the overall strategic plan to address and preserve the watershed and create good jobs.”

“There is a reason why enrollment at Housatonic Community College has increased dramatically in recent years. Affordable tuition, convenient location by the cities’ transportation hub and a great faculty are just some of them. Many people I know in the district I represent and abroad have used the education they have received at Housatonic to improve their quality of life. Working to help with the expansion and renovation will be necessary to accommodate the needs of the growing student body,” Rep. Santiago said. “It is important for us to keep the deep water port designation if the Bridgeport Harbor port is to remain a viable source of commerce and trade in our region. There are jobs that currently rely on the ports operation and we must take advantage of opportunities to create new jobs through economic development strategies that are vital to Bridgeport residents. Growing our local tax base through economic development is a way to decrease the current tax burden on our residential home owners.”

The State Bond Commission approved $1,000,000 to study economic development strategies in several port cities including Bridgeport. Bridgeport officials have long worked on marina development due to its strategic waterfront location.

Another item on the agenda for Friday is funding in the amount of $4,669,770 for the implementation of phase III of the master plan for renovations and additions and renovations of the 183,000 square foot Lafayette Hall at Housatonic Community College. The project includes new and renovated science labs, an expanded the library, new computer labs and general purpose classrooms.

The funding will allow for the construction of a parking garage for approximately 90 cars at its community Health Center in Bridgeport and will create a number of construction related jobs.

“I am pleased and thank Governor Malloy for prioritizing this funding for Optimus Health Care’s parking facility improvements,” Ayala stated. “This will alleviate some of the traffic and space congestion on East Main Street and will promote business access.”

Optimus Health Care is located at 982 East Main Street and offers a variety of medical services such as pediatrics, obstetrics, dental, HIV, social services, laboratory and administration with an adjacent building housing adult medicine, psychiatry and podiatry care.

“Many people come in and out of this facility on a daily basis. I am confident that this new two-deck parking facility will improve care for many patients who rely on this particular center for their health care needs,” Ayala said.

HARTFORD — The all­white committee of lawmakers who are redrawing the state’s political boundaries are getting a pair of minority advisers.

House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan, D-Meriden, announced Tuesday that he named Reps. Toni E. Walker, D-New Haven, and Andres Ayala, D-Bridgeport, to advise House Democrats on the legislature’s redistricting committee.

The bipartisan panel of eight representatives and senators is preparing to revise congressional and General Assembly districts based on latest federal census.

The pair will advise Donovan and Rep. Sandy Nafis, D-Newington, the other House Democrat on the redistricting committee, about issues affect­ing blacks and Hispanics. Walker, an African-American, joined the legislature in 2001. Ayala, a Latino, is now serving his third term.

“Latinos and African Americans are the two largest minority groups in our state. We need to fully understand the impact of proposed changes on African-American and Latino communities throughout Connecticut,” Donovan said.

He said he and Nafis will also work with advocacy groups and others to help draw up the 151 House districts.

State law sets a Sept. 15 deadline for the legislature to adopt a redistricting plan based on the Reapportionment Committee’s recommendations. A two­thirds vote in each chamber is required for approval.

If the legislature cannot agree on a plan, a nine-member Reapportionment Commission is named. Essentially, the redistricting committee gets a ninth member.

The commission must prepare a plan no later than Nov. 30. If this panel cannot agree, the state Supreme Court becomes involved. The state constitution authorizes the high court to require the commission to complete a plan, or the court can draw district boundaries itself.

Some of the benefits include a solution to the pension plan, funds for the Ralphola Community Center and manufacturing grants.

“Bridgeport would be faced with pension obligation payments that could exceed $20 million without this legislation,” Rep. Ayala said. “That translates into cuts to municipal services as well as possible increases in local taxes.”

The proposed legislation provides a different framework within which the City must fund the pension plan so the pension plan can continue to pay the retirement benefits. The pension plan currently covers 866 retirees and 33 remaining active employees.

The legislation changes the funding ratio requirements under existing law and instead institutes an actuarially accepted methodology for payments into the pension plan. The city will be required to contribute a minimum of $7 million to the plan for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2012 and to make future contributions at actuarially required levels under actuarially accepted methodology for subsequent fiscal years.

The current administration has made significant contributions over the last few years - $6.2 million in 2009, $4.7 million in 2010 and $7 million in 2011. However, a weak economy over the past 10 years has negatively affected the pension fund and the city's revenues have substantially declined.

The Ralphola Taylor Community Center YMCA has received a $300,000 state grant. The Community Center YMCA serves the entire community with educational and recreation programs for youth and adults, including computer classes high school equivalency classes (GED) and a violence prevention program.   It is a family resource center with a full service medical facility in conjunction with the Bridgeport Community Health Center.

“I am very happy that I was able to work with the House leadership to receive this funding,” Rep. Clemons said. “This will go a long way in providing much needed services in the district.

In addition, Bridgeport will receive $839,881 dollars that would have been lost due to changes in the Manufacturing Machinery & Equipment reimbursement to municipalities (MME) in the governor’s budget. Bridgeport and other cities with heavy industry and large manufacturing bases would have been disproportionately affected. A fund was created that combines retail sales, hotel stays, home sales, cabaret and car rental taxes.

“Changes to the MME reimbursement would have had the potential to greatly affect Bridgeport and other cities whose budgets rely on these state funds. Our municipal budget might have been affected by upwards of $800,000 in lost revenue,” Rep. Santiago said. “I am pleased my colleagues were able to unite against this proposed change to come up with alternate options.”

Participants will gather at Captain’s Cove Seaport for the four mile walk in Bridgeport this Saturday, May 21. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the walk will start at 9:30 a.m.

“I look forward to a very exciting day as we all come together to help those less fortunate with their housing needs,” Ayala said. “Any contribution counts toward the elimination of homelessness in our communities Let’s offer all the support we can to our friends and their families.”

The funds raised will support programs and services offered by Alpha Community Services, including family emergency shelters, case management, job training, and continuing education classes.

"This sort of language is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in the Bridgeport Police Department. The incident will be thoroughly investigated and dealt with immediately," said Bridgeport Police Chief Joseph L. Gaudett Jr.

Added Mayor Bill Finch: "I applaud Chief Gaudett for his swift action on a matter of such a serious nature. I await the outcome of his department's investigation on this issue. But let me be clear, offensive or culturally insensitive remarks will not be tolerated without swift and significant discipline."

Quinn did not return calls for comment.

In February, Quinn, a longtime personality at WICC radio in Bridgeport, was appointed by Finch to the $69,909 position.

In an email posted just after noon, Quinn suggested that news organizations would be better served hiring a cartoonist rather than requesting so-called mug shots of arrested persons.

"Why wait for mug shots?" he wrote in his email. "I've got a better idea than calling me and seeing if we have pictures of what, invariably, turn out to be some of the ugliest critters on God's green earth. You guys should hire a cartoonist and he could create a whole set of characters then just pop one on the screen to fit the appropriate crime…"

Among the names he suggested were "Miguel the Murderer (kind of a skinny rat wearing a dirty T-shirt)" and "Hector the Home Invader (A weasel wearing a fedora)."

A short time later Quinn emailed an apology: "Guys … I'd like to apologize for the earlier email about cartoon characters rather than mug shots. Poor sense of humor on my part ¦ no intention to be demeaning of anyone just my Thursday stupid pill. In any event, I sincerely apologize."

State Rep. Andres Ayala Jr. (D-128) said he was "deeply troubled," by Quinn's actions.

"The comments, so-called jokes and language used by Mr. Tim Quinn in his e-mail have crossed the line of respect, consideration, professionalism and trust," said Ayala in a statement issued Friday. "He undoubtedly has offended the many Latinos in the state and especially those who have chosen to live in our city with his lack of judgment and poor sense of humor."

Ayala said "it is important to keep in mind that one-third of the city's population is Latino and the manner in which he referenced Latino names is unacceptable. As a spokesman for the City of Bridgeport Police Department he should have displayed better judgment as a representative of our city."

He said he would be awaiting the outcome of the department's investigation and urged Gaudett to deal with the matter in the "strongest manner possible."

"We cannot stand by in silence when comments of this nature insult, hurt and patronize our citizens," said Ayala.

Scot Esdaile, the president of the Connecticut chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, said Quinn's joke was offensive and his group will investigate.

"I think that he's totally out of line," Esdaile said. "We need individuals in those types of positions that stand for freedom, justice and equality."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

The comments, so-called jokes and language used by Mr. Tim Quinn in his e-mail have crossed the line of respect, consideration, professionalism and trust. He undoubtedly has offended the many Latinos in the state and especially those who have chosen to live in our city with his lack of judgment and poor sense of humor.

It is important to keep in mind that 1/3 of the City's population is Latino and the manner in which he referenced Latino names is unacceptable. As a spokesman for the City of Bridgeport Police Department he should have displayed better judgment as a representative of our city.

We cannot stand by in silence when comments of this nature insult, hurt and patronize our citizens.

As a City employee who speaks on behalf of the Chief of Police, Mr. Quinn must be held accountable for his actions. I urge the Chief to deal with this matter in the strongest manner possible to ensure that racial comments are not tolerated or accepted. I, together with others who have spoken against this absurd action, await the outcome of the department’s investigation.”

HARTFORD -- Time and again Tuesday as the clock ticked toward midnight, the Republican House minority knocked their heads against the 99-member wall called the Democratic majority.

But after Democrats crushed 11 amendments, the 52-member minority gave up on changing a budget that becomes Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's first major victory since taking office in January.

After nearly 10 hours of debate, Democrats gave the governor a 83-67 vote to approve a range of tax hikes and erase a looming $3.3 billion deficit.

Fifteen Democratic House members including Rep. Paul Davis of Orange, Kim Fawcett of Fairfield, Richard Roy and Kim Rose of Milford and Jonathan Steinberg of Westport voted against the bill.

"There are no gimmicks in this budget," said House Majority Leader Brendan Sharkey, D-Hamden, in the traditional summing up of the debate just before midnight. "It fully funds our pensions. There's no borrowing, there's no one-time revenue."

Andres Ayala Jr., D-Bridgeport, leader of the city's delegation, said the budget importantly retains state aid, including Educational Cost Sharing money for public schools.

"The reason why I support this budget and the Bridgeport delegation supports the budget in this time that budgets are being cut and hurting cities, is because this doesn't do it," Ayala said in an interview late Tuesday. "This budget delivers that support to our city. It's a natural that we support it."

The approval of the budget sends it to Malloy's desk. He told reporters Tuesday morning that he wasn't sure whether he would sign it right away.

The House vote comes just days before the first round of layoff notices to state employees that Malloy is preparing in case unions balk at givebacks and he is forced to seek $2 billion in savings through job terminations and other tactics.

One by one, Republican House members rose and teed off until, after five hours, they offered a balanced budget that would not raise taxes as the debate moved into the evening.

"I am constantly asked how we can ever consider more of a tax burden on our people," said Rep. DebraLee Hovey, R-Monroe. "Where's the common sense?"

Rep. Themis Klarides, R-Derby, said the Democratic budget would be too much of a burden.

"It is hypocritical to tell people we are helping them and on the other hand increasing their fees," Klarides said.

Rep. T.R. Rowe, R-Trumbull, said the seeds of the proposed tax hikes go back to 1991, when lawmakers adopted the personal income tax.

"Here we are 20 years later making the same short-sighted mistakes," Rowe said, calling the impending House action a "legacy" vote. "We're raising the sales tax, we're raising income tax rates, we're creating new taxes. It's very disappointing. I fear that this is going to be a sad day for Connecticut. It's going to be an unfortunate legacy for the governor and for this Legislature."

Debate on the two-year, $40.1 billion proposal began at about 2 p.m., less than 12 hours after the Senate voted 19-17 to raise taxes by $2.6 billion, including higher income-tax rates and a new 6.35 percent sales tax.

House Minority Leader Lawrence F. Cafero Jr., R-Norwalk, led the opposition. During a 15-minute monologue toward the start of the debate, Cafero said that Connecticut residents are in a tough spot and the wide range of tax hikes will make life that much tougher.

"They just can't afford government anymore," Cafero said. "It's too big. They keep paying and paying and paying." He complained that rather than reducing the current $19.3 billion budget, the Democratic package would spend $19.8 billion in the fiscal year that starts July 1, then $20.3 billion the next year.

"There's a better way," he said, setting up the introduction of the GOP budget proposal, which he called the antithesis of a Democrats' first-year tax hike of $1.8 billion, including increases in fuel taxes.

"Isn't there some compromise between zero and $1.8 billion?" Cafero asked. "What are you doing to us?"

The three Senate Democrats who voted against it after an 11-hour debate included Sen. Gayle S. Slossberg, D-Milford, who said there were several reasons she opposed Democratic leadership and the governor.

"People are struggling as it is," Slossberg said in an interview. "If you can't pay for what you already have, you can't spend more."

She said the state should not increase spending. "It's not right," she said. Slossberg also opposes merging several of the so-called watchdog agencies including the Office of State Ethics.

Slossberg said that new taxes, combined with higher spending, are too much for the state at this time. "Anyone who says you can balance the budget without new taxes isn't telling the truth," she said. "But you can't spend more money and raise taxes at the same time."

Malloy made a rare trip to the usually closed-door Democratic caucus Tuesday afternoon to give them a pep talk.

"This is a momentous moment," Malloy said to a packed caucus room. He warned them that minority Republicans would make attacks during the hours of debate.

"Things will be said that simply are not true," Malloy said, noting that former Gov. M. Jodi Rell left lawmakers facing a $3.5 billion deficit. "This budget represents a lot of very hard decisions having been made. I know not everyone can be as happy as some other people are," Malloy said. "I know that there are issues that I will continue to work with your leadership on."

Throughout the afternoon Republicans attacked the Democratic package as bad medicine for a state that's still faltering in the recession, with a 9.1 percent unemployment rate.

Malloy, in a statement after the vote, said it is now up to his administration to gain the union concessions.

"I remain hopeful that we'll get there," he said. "If we don't, I remain committed to presenting an alternative budget to the General Assembly in the next couple of weeks."

The four mile walk will be held May 21 at Captain’s Cove Seaport in Bridgeport on May 21. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and walk will start at 9:30 a.m.

“It is an honor to be working again with Alpha Community Services and thank them for giving the opportunity to serve as chair of this important event,” Ayala stated. “We will be working hard to get all the support necessary to make this walk as memorable as all the other ones have been. Homelessness is a tragedy that keeps impacting our communities, our families and friends. We need to find ways to end it.”

The program offers several services and temporary options including housing, to those who find themselves in this devastating situation.

“I encourage everyone to join us on May 21, and to help us spread the word to have an unprecedented number of people participating with us that day,” Ayala said.

The funds raised will support programs and services offered by Alpha Community Services, including family emergency shelters, case management, job training, and continuing education classes.

HARTFORD — Scared off by estimates that a study of Bridgeport's long-vacant vaudeville-era theaters would cost about $619,000, a legislative committee Monday voted to require state officials to perform the study with existing funds.

Under an amendment suggested by minority Republicans, the tax-writing Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee approved the study, which the state Department of Economic and Community Development would have to complete by Jan. 1 with funds from its normal operating budget.

The bill moves to the House for further action.

Bridgeport lawmakers said that the Palace and Majestic theaters, located on Main Street north of downtown, are crucial to the city's revival.

"This is a very important aspect of Bridgeport moving forward, providing entertainment and a center for our economic development," said State Rep. John F. Hennessy, D-Bridgeport.

Sen. L. Scott Frantz, R-Greenwich, said that if the multimillion-dollar renovation is beyond the means of the state, the study might also be ill-advised. "The question I think we have to ask, is it worth doing the study for $619,000?" Frantz said. "If it's an affordable amount, then you can make a much stronger argument that the study is worth doing."

Hennessy responded that the bill expressly referred to the DECD's use of "existing funds." Sen. Gary D. LeBeau, D-East Hartford, a committee member who is also the co-chairman of the legislative Commerce Committee, confirmed Hennessy's assessment.

But Williams, ranking member of the committee, said that the nonpartisan Office of Fiscal Analysis put the $619,000 price tag on the study.

"I think some people have made the case that revitalizing downtown Bridgeport is an important piece of the economy of southwestern Connecticut," Williams said, proposing an amendment requiring the DECD to accomplish the study within its normal workload and budget.

"All I'm suggesting is that we clarify in the bill that this be done within available appropriations at DECD," Williams said. "All I'm asking is that what everyone here is saying, actually happens."

"I've heard concerns about the price tag and I've heard concerns about what the city of Bridgeport has done or would like to do or would like to add on," said Rep. Andres Ayala Jr., D-Bridgeport, a finance committee member who leads the city delegation.

"This redevelopment of two movie theaters is but just a piece of what our downtown Bridgeport redevelopment is," Ayala said. "So, in essence, when you ask about what the investment of the city is, I'd say there are millions of dollars invested into redeveloping that Bridgeport downtown.

"We all know and understand there has been a tremendous amount of flight from urban centers out to suburbs," he said. "And we really believe, in the city of Bridgeport, that the development that should take place in the state of Connecticut ought to be smart development, and we ought to be going back into our urban centers and we ought to make sure we redevelop our cities."

Williams' amendment was approved in a voice vote of the committee.

The city of Bridgeport has owned the twin theaters as part of its downtown development plans. Hennessy said a new roof was put on the structures about 15 years ago.

The Beaux arts-style Palace, originally called the Loew's Poli Theater, opened in 1922 and was once the biggest venue in the state, seating about 3,600 for live entertainers including Mae West. It closed about 35 years ago.

HARTFORD — Many critics believe Gov. Dannel Malloy's budget taxes too much or too little, but the plan approved Thursday by the legislature's Finance and Appropriations committees won over area lawmakers on both sides of the debate.

State Rep. Andres Ayala Jr., D-Bridgeport, voted for the budget on the Finance Committee even though he and 64 Democratic colleagues unsuccessfully petitioned leaders to raise the top income tax rate to 7 percent.

"In a perfect world, that would be my desire," Ayala said Thursday. Malloy would only go as high as 6.7 percent.

And state Sen. Bob Duff, D-Norwalk, a fiscal conservative who expressed concern over the governor's recent decision to salvage a property tax credit by shifting more taxes onto the wealthy, also voted yes.

"This budget has a blueprint for the future, which budgets in the past have not had," Duff, an Appropriations Committee member, said. "It really spares communities from raising property taxes because of cuts in state funding."

State Sen. Carlo Leone, D-Stamford, who as a member of the House of Representatives has previously opposed tax hikes, said the state's fiscal woes are far worse and the budget spreads the effect beyond Fairfield County.

"The proposal was to go 'middle of the road,' " Leone, who sits on the Finance Committee, said. "Would I choose not to do this if we had a better alternative? Yes."

State Rep. Kim Fawcett, D-Fairfield, joined a handful of Democrats who voted against the budget Thursday.

Fawcett acknowledged it was a tough decision because the Appropriations Committee, of which she is a member, adopted some of her recommended cuts.

"We just haven't had a serious enough conversation about how to reduce spending and find savings to justify the tax increases," Fawcett said.

Newly elected state Rep. Charlie Stallworth, D-Bridgeport, who replaced veteran legislator Christopher Caruso, opposed the budget on the Finance Committee.

"I probably still have the dust of the campaign on my shoes & but I promised the people that I would be a team player and an independent thinker," Stallworth said. "One thing they said to me was, 'Don't raise taxes and don't create any new taxes.' "

Two senators — Ed Meyer, D-Guilford and Joan Hartley, D-Waterbury — also bucked Malloy and Democratic leadership in part because the governor still has to achieve $2 billion in labor concessions.

But state Rep. Patricia Billie Miller, D-Stamford, an Appropriations Committee vice-chairman, said, "We're confident the governor will get the concessions."

Republicans on the Finance Committee Thursday found themselves at odds with major CEOs from Fairfield County and Hartford. While the GOP argues new taxes will hurt job creation, the governor and Democratic leaders have been touting budget endorsements from the Business Council of Fairfield County and the heads of Travelers, Aetna, Cigna, The Hartford and, United Technologies.

State Sen. Toni Boucher, R-Wilton, recalled hearing from, "a small business owner — not the CEO of Aetna or these larger firms — (who) was brought to tears because he was on such a thin margin and a small increase was a tipping point for him."

State Rep. David Scribner, D-Brookfield, hoped as the budget heads to the General Assembly, "That we won't only recognize five corporate endorsements and their employees."

"I think of the 100,000 employees who lost their jobs in the state of Connecticut," Scribner said.

“I am excited to host our 2nd Latino Advocacy Day at the State Capitol,” Ayala said. “This is an event that I began planning a couple of years ago, and I am pleased to see it grow and become an important event here in Hartford. I thank the governor and my legislative leadership for their support and commitment to the Hispanic community.”

The group hosted Governor Dannel P. Malloy and other state leaders, including Speaker of the House Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) and Majority Leader Brendan S. Sharkey (D-Hamden), to bring attention to the commitment and work Latino community agencies perform in their respective area of service.

Speaker Donovan said, “I commend Rep. Ayala and the Latino Caucus for this great event, where we come together to learn more about the important services offered by various Latino agencies. We share the same goals of improving our communities and ensuring that essential services are kept in place.”

This year’s theme, Latino Agencies ARE the Safety Net, is looking to build stronger relationships with state government and finding ways to preserve vital services to the vast Latino community they represent.

Several Latino agencies and individuals from across the state participated at this event and joined in the celebration. Many advocated and discussed the importance and relevance of the growing Hispanic population in the state and state government.

There are currently nine Latino legislators in the General Assembly: Reps. Ayala (D-Bridgeport), Ezequiel Santiago (D-Bridgeport), Minnie Gonzalez (D-Hartford), Hector Robles (D-Hartford), Kelvin Roldan (D-Hartford), Jason Rojas (D-East Hartford), Bobby Sanchez (D-New Britain), Juan Candelaria (D-New Haven) and David Aldarondo (D-Waterbury).

The group will host Governor Dannel P. Malloy and other state leaders, including Speaker of the House Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) and Majority Leader Brendan S. Sharkey (D-Hamden), to bring attention to the commitment and work Latino community agencies perform in their respective area of service.

This year's theme, Latino Agencies ARE the Safety Net, is looking to build stronger relationships with state government and finding ways to preserve vital services to the vast Latino community they represent.

WHO:    Rep. Ayala, Latino legislators and LPRAC to host Governor Malloy and State Leaders

WHAT:  Press Conference to kick off 2nd Latino Advocacy Day

WHEN:  Wednesday, March 30th 10:00 am

WHERE: Legislative Office Building Room 2D

“This is important legislation that I am pushing forward in light of the several recent cases of bed bug infestations around our state and nation,” Ayala said.

The bill would require businesses to pass store and mattress inspections as well as tougher penalties to those who don’t. “This is particularly essential because many of the consumers who choose to buy re-manufactured merchandise do so because they can’t afford to buy new,” Ayala said.

“Whether it’s personal preference or the lack of money to buy a brand new set, individuals who choose to buy re-manufactured mattresses from local small businesses, should be reassured that they are purchasing a clean mattress that is free of bed bugs,” Ayala noted.

The proposals seek to strengthen the reliability of Connecticut’s elections by requiring more involvement and communication between local Registrars of Voters and the Secretary of the State’s office. Under the proposed legislation, every municipality in the state would be required to report to the Secretary of the State’s office how many ballots they purchase for elections, and certify that they have taken into account factors such as tight races that may augment voter turnout.

“I commend Secretary Merrill for her leadership in addressing election reform and particularly support Bill 942, which requires municipalities to have an emergency action plan in place should a ballot shortage occur, as well as a requirement to report to the Secretary of the State’s office the number of ballots ordered,” Ayala said.  “As a Bridgeport resident and an elected official, I experienced what our city  went through this past election with the ballot shortage, which clearly prompted a new course of action as it relates to this process.”

The proposals currently under consideration are:

• Raised Bill 942 “An Act Concerning the Integrity of Elections”
• House Joint Resolution 88 - Constitutional Amendment
• Raised Bill 938 “An Act Concerning Technical and Minor Changes to Elections”
  Raised Bill 6330 “An Act Concerning Certain Revisions to Election Related Statutes”

State Senator Anthony Musto (D-Trumbull), who currently serves as interim chair of the Select Committee on Children, raised the concept with the support of Representative Andres Ayala, Jr. (D-Bridgeport).

Under the proposal, DCF would be required to provide a noncustodial parent with a copy of any complaint not later than five days after disclosing a report and notice to a custodial parent.

“Noncustodial parents have a significant interest in the health and well-being of their child, despite their custodial status,” said Senator Musto. “Parental involvement is important in cases involving the treatment of children. When it’s in the best interest of the child, noncustodial parents should be kept apprised of proceedings.”

“I would like to thank Senator Musto for his support and willingness to embrace this legislation in order to work together on it this session,” said Representative Ayala. “This is a very important issue that I have been advocating for during the last few years, and I am heartened to see interest in moving it forward. I believe noncustodial parents have the right to know when a state agency is in contact with their children, especially if that agency is DCF.”

The legislation will be drafted and presented at a public hearing before the Select Committee on Children in the coming weeks of the session.

The 2011 regular legislative session adjourns on June 8.

Currently serving his second term, Senator Anthony Musto represents Bridgeport, Trumbull and Monroe in the state Senate, where he serves as chair of the Human Services Committee and interim chair of the Select Committee on Children.

Rep. Ayala, currently serving his third term in the General Assembly, is well known in the community - having served in Bridgeport’s City Council as Council President.

“It is a great honor to have the support of my Bridgeport colleagues to be the chair of the delegation and I appreciate their trust,” Ayala said. “We continue to face serious challenges, but I am confident that together we will be able to achieve successful and desirable results for our city as we move along during these difficult times.”

“I have found that building consensus among different groups of people works best when we are looking to positively impact the community,” Ayala noted. “It has worked for me in the past and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues as we tackle the issues before us.”

Ayala will be meeting periodically and will work closely with each member of the delegation to ensure that city projects in the legislature move forward and successfully for the benefit of Bridgeport’s residents.

Representative Ayala serves on the Regulations Review, Public Health, and Finance and Revenue & Bonding Committees. He has also been named to serve as Chairman of the Transportation Bonding Sub-Committee of the Finance Committee and has been appointed Assistant Majority Leader.

Members of the Bridgeport delegation are: Representatives Don Clemons (D-District 124), Auden Grogins (D- District 129), Jack Hennessy (D-District 127), Ezequiel Santiago (D-District 130) and Senators Edwin Gomes (D-District 23) and Anthony J. Musto (D-District 22).

“I am honored that Rep. Sharkey appointed me Assistant Majority Leader as we prepare for the beginning of the 2011 session,” Ayala said. “We continue to face important challenges, but I remain confident that together we will find alternatives that will help us move forward.”

“I am very pleased to see that Andres Ayala has accepted this leadership position”, House Majority Leader Brendan Sharkey (D-Hamden) said. “He is an experienced and committed colleague joining our leadership team in the House of Representatives and is eager to get to work.”

Andres Ayala was sworn in today to his third term representing Bridgeport’s 128th Assembly District during the opening day ceremonies at the State Capitol.

In addition, Ayala will serve on Regulations Review Committee and will continue to serve on the Public Health, and Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committees. He has also been appointed to serve as Chairman of the Transportation Bonding Sub-Committee of the Finance Committee.