Juan R. Candelaria

This week, the House and Senate passed an omnibus bill comprised of legislation introduced last year. Part of that bill includes a number of education provisions that passed by a wide margin in the House last year and unfortunately was not voted on in the Senate.

One part of this bill improves the state’s practice of crisis response drills to improve students’ physical safety and properly balance their psychological wellbeing. While schools must be prepared for an emergency, organizers must ensure these drills are conducted effectively and responsibly.

Another section creates a state seal of civics education and engagement to be earned on high school diplomas for students who demonstrate civics mastery in the classroom and community engagement.

At a time when civic engagement is alarmingly low in our country, this recognition will encourage students to learn more about the way our government works and the role they play in shaping society.

The House is BACK IN SESSION Feb. 26th. Our representatives are gearing up to pass critical legislation through May 6th. Follow along at CT-N.com and stay tuned for updates!

Governor Ned Lamont announced that the Connecticut Student Loan Reimbursement Program has opened a new grant round and is now accepting applications for student loan payments that were made during the 2025 calendar year.

Since launching its first grant round in January 2025, the program has awarded more than $2.2 million in reimbursements to borrowers statewide.

Eligible applicants can apply for reimbursement grants of up to $5,000 per year, with a maximum reimbursement of $20,000 over four years. Under the program, a new grant round launches each year, providing reimbursements for payments made during the preceding calendar year.

The House came back into session this week, where we will meet for the next three months to pass legislation to better our state. It was wonderful to see my colleagues and begin the work on behalf of our communities.

It's easier than ever to follow along and get involved. There are several resources you can utilize that will help you stay updated on the legislative process as it unfolds in Hartford.

Next week, the 2026 legislative session will officially get underway at the state Capitol. My legislative colleagues and I will begin several months of debate, deliberation, and decision-making on a wide range of key policy issues that will shape our state in the year ahead.

Watch the 2026 legislative session live on CT-N beginning Wednesday, February 4, at 10:00 a.m., with coverage of opening day. Live streams of subsequent session days and committee meetings are also available at any time.

Governor Ned Lamont activated Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol today at noon, and it will remain in effect until noon on Wednesday, January 28, due to a blast of extremely cold air that will impact the state during this period.

Please be reminded that warming centers throughout the area are available for individuals and families in need. You can search for them here. These locations provide a safe, heated space during extreme cold conditions.

Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a time to celebrate a life dedicated to service, courage, and hope. As we remember Dr. King’s powerful vision of equality and peace, we are called to carry his legacy forward through acts of kindness, justice, and community engagement.

A reminder that Access Health CT (AHCT), Connecticut’s official health insurance marketplace, announced the final deadline to enroll in a health or dental plan for 2026 has been extended to Saturday, January 31. The original deadline was Jan. 15. Customers who enroll now will have coverage starting Feb. 1. Customers can also renew their coverage.

Recent state and federal changes mean the amount of financial help available and who is eligible have changed. However, financial assistance is still available.