2009 Press Releases

October 20, 2009

REP. LONNIE REED HONORED BY AARP

At a ceremony in Southington today, AARP recognized State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) for championing consumer protections that will curb investment fraud.

“This year was a difficult one for Connecticut as state and national fiscal crises forced difficult choices by our leaders,” said AARP Connecticut State Director Brenda Kelley.  “AARP appreciates the leadership of Rep. Reed during these difficult times and thanks her for advancing legislation and services that protect and enhance the lives of older adults in Connecticut.”

Rep. Reed received AARP’s Legislative Achievement Award for her work on a new law to prohibit financial consultants and life insurance agents from claiming to be certified as senior citizen advisors unless their training has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.  Violators will now face possible penalties that include loss of their license, fines of up to $5,000 and up to two years imprisonment.

According to Rep. Reed, “These phonies give themselves titles such as Senior Advisor or Elder Consultant and lure older investors with fancy marketing materials complete with gold seals. They have been known to sell 80 year olds products such as annuities that don’t begin paying out for ten years.”

Rep. Reed introduced this bill after a family member was defrauded by someone calling himself a Certified Senior Financial Specialist.  Connecticut is only the third state to pass such legislation.  California and Massachusetts have similar laws.

Rep. Reed said, “This is a huge national problem. Americans 65 and older hold $65 trillion, the largest pool of assets ever amassed by an aging population.  And they are especially vulnerable targets during such uncertain economic times.  I am proud that the General Assembly voted unanimously to protect our citizens.  And I am grateful to AARP for their support and for this honor.”

AARP is nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organizations that helps people 50 and over improve the quality of their lives.  They have 40 million members nationally and over 600,000 members in Connecticut.

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District.  Rep Reed sits on the legislature's Energy and Technology, General Law, and Planning and Development Committees.

Tom Clark, AARP volunteer from Branford, and Rep. Reed.

October 2, 2009

REP. RICHARD ROY AND REP. LONNIE REED RESTORE
IMPORTANT FUNDING FOR LONG ISLAND SOUND

Hartford - Rep. Richard Roy (D-Milford) and Rep. Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) successfully restored and redirected funds into the state budget to protect Long Island Sound through an account titled the Long Island Sound account.

“I appreciate legislative leadership’s quick and thoughtful response to our request concerning the protection of the integrity of Long Island Sound,” Rep. Roy said.  “I am pleased to have been able to work with my colleague, Rep. Lonnie Reed to hasten this critical legislation.”

“This is especially important because Long Island Sound lovers participated in the program with full faith that the funds would go to Sound preservation and education,” Rep. Reed said.

The account is funded through a surcharge on commemorative Long Island Sound automobile license plates in addition to the regular fees levied for registration of a motor vehicle.  Among activities and programs supported are restoration and preservation of tidal wetlands, public access, shellfish and finfish habitat preservation and education to enhance public awareness of the importance of the Sound. 

“I have a special interest in this legislation as two previous State Representatives, Rep. Peter Smith and Rep. Raymond Collins, both from Milford, introduced the original legislation in the late 1980s to create the account,” Rep. Roy added.

“The people of Branford are well known for their devotion to Long Island Sound,” Rep. Reed said. “It is a matter of fairness and of restoring public trust that we act to make certain their support goes into the intended account.”

July 20, 2009

LEGISLATURE OVERRIDES VETO OF LONG ISLAND SOUND COMMISSION BILL

State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) announced that both houses of the Connecticut legislature voted [overwhelmingly] today to override Governor Rell’s veto of a bill that would establish a Bi-State Long Island Sound Commission.  Senate Bill 1078, An Act Establishing a Bi-State Long Island Sound Commission, passed the house 105 to 37and the senate 31 to 5.

“I was extremely disappointed in Governor Rell’s decision to veto this popular bi-partisan effort,” said Rep. Reed.  “We defeated Broadwater and Islander East, but they will not be the last threats to Long Island Sound.  This commission offers a long-term solution to protecting and preserving the Sound and creates a mechanism for working together on regional energy challenges.”

“This is smart legislation that will help conserve state resources but more importantly, it will build a cohesive and necessary alliance with Connecticut's Long Island Sound co-owner-- New York” said Leah Schmalz, Director of Legislative and Legal Affairs for Save the Sound.  “This collaboration is a vital element if we are to truly protect our treasured landscape."

“For people living on the shoreline of Connecticut, Long Island Sound is our most significant quality of life issue,” State Senator Ed Meyer (D-Guilford) said. “This bill brings Connecticut and New York together to deal with Long Island Sound issues of environment, ecology and energy.  It’s a good bill for the shoreline, the state, and for our future generations.  I am pleased that the override passed on a bipartisan by a vote of 31-5 in the Senate.”

The bill establishes a commission that would review major environmental, ecological and energy issues involving Long Island Sound and make recommendations to Connecticut and New York lawmakers.

Rep. Reed added, “During the campaigns to stop Broadwater and the Islander East pipeline, we developed many wonderful relationships with folks in New York.  This commission is a great way to build on those relationships and to continue working together for regional solutions that make sense for everyone on both sides of the Sound.”

Before joining the Connecticut General Assembly this year, Rep. Reed was a statewide environmental leader who co-founded Hands Across Our Pond, an initiative that helped bring Connecticut and New York together to oppose the Broadwater liquefied natural gas barge and 23 mile long pipeline proposed for Long Island Sound.  She also authored Connecticut's first anti-Broadwater resolution that was approved by Branford and subsequently by cities and towns throughout Connecticut and New York.  The bill repeals the Bi-State Long Island Sound Marine and replaces it with a bi-State Long Island Sound Commission.  The commission will operate under the Department of Environmental Protection and provide an annual report of its findings to the legislature and the governors of both Connecticut and New York.  

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District.  Rep Reed sits on the legislature's Environment Committee, General Law Committee, and the Planning and Development Committee.

July 13, 2009

LEGISLATORS WORK TO REDUCE SENIOR FRAUD

By Harriet Jones
WNPR

Seniors are becoming bigger and bigger targets for scammers, but officials are working to reverse the trend.

Connecticut has a new law on the books aimed at helping seniors avoid becoming victims of financial fraud.

The measure means it’s now illegal to pose as a specialized financial adviser for seniors, unless you have genuine accreditation.

The legislation mirrors that being passed in other states like Florida and California.

June 11, 2009

REP. REED JOINS GOV. RELL FOR SIGNING OF GREEN CLEANING BILL
Bill Requiring Green Cleaning Products in Schools Signed Into Law

Reps. Lonnie Reed and Chris Lyddy
with Governor Rell at bill signing.

State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) joined Governor Rell today for the signing of the Green Cleaning Products in Schools Act, that requires local and regional school districts to use non toxic agents to clean schools.  The ceremony was held at Vernon Center Middle School in Vernon.

"Kids and harsh chemical cleaning products are an unhealthy combination," said Rep. Reed who cosponsored the legislation.  "The spikes in asthma and other allergy conditions that we are seeing among student populations and the mounting evidence about the future health consequences of inhaling or absorbing powerful compounds throughout the school day are all concerns that can and should be addressed by greening our cleaning."

"This law will help ensure a healthy environment for everyone who walks through the doors of public schools in Connecticut," said Gov. Rell.

The types of cleaning products covered in this legislation include general purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, floor finishes, floor strippers, hand cleansers and soaps, but does not impact any disinfectant, disinfecting cleaner, sanitizer or other antimicrobial products.  Products must meet nationally certified guidelines and will be approved by the state Department of Administrative Services (DAS) that purchases green cleaning products for state buildings. Schools will have the opportunity to buy in bulk through DAS.

Gov Rell added, "Thank you to legislators and the advocates who made this bill happen."

"Every child, teacher, staff member and custodian has a right to a safe and healthy school environment," said Rep. Reed. "This legislation helps us fulfill our responsibility to protect our citizens."

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District.  Rep. Reed sits on the legislature's Environment Committee, General Law Committee, and the Planning and Development Committee.

May 30, 2009

SHORELINE WOMEN LEGISLATORS TEAM UP TO FIGHT
FOR PROPER USE OF OBSTETRICAL ULTRASOUND
Legislation Passes House and Senate

Legislation to crack down on non-medical facilities that offer entertainment ultrasounds to pregnant women backed by State Representatives Deb Heinrich (D-Madison & Guilford), Patricia Widlitz (D-Guilford & Branford), and Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) passed the Senate by consent today.  It will now head to the Governor for her signature.

“Ultrasound is a medical tool that comes with risk,” Rep. Heinrich, the introducer of the legislation, stated.  “These non-medical facilities are telling pregnant women that there is no risk.  The medical community does not agree and the legislature does not agree. Ultrasounds for pregnant women should be used solely for medical and diagnostic purposes and only with a prescription from a licensed medical professional.”

“Medical procedures should not be used for fun,” adds Rep. Widlitz.  “I remember when X-rays were used to see if children’s feet fit into shoes.  Then they found out that X-rays were harmful and banned the use of those medical devices in shoe stores.  We cannot allow this misuse of prescriptive medical devices to endanger unsuspecting pregnant women.  In my opinion this is one of the most important pieces of legislation to come before the chamber this session.”

“This is a serious public health issue involving unnecessary medical scanning that was literally flying under the radar or more correctly, under the sonar.  I am proud to have joined forces with two of my shoreline colleagues to help better protect our citizens,” said Rep. Reed.

The legislation is aimed at a growing trend of “boutique” operations that purchase ultrasound equipment over the internet and then offer “keepsake” pictures and videos for pregnant women.

The FDA agrees, stating in an opinion that discourages the use of ultrasound for non-medical purposes like these, “Ultrasound energy delivered to the fetus cannot be regarded as completely innocuous.  Lab studies have shown that diagnostic levels of ultrasound can produce physical effects in tissue such as mechanical vibrations and rise in temperature.”  They go on to say, “Persons who promote, sell or lease ultrasound equipment for making “keepsake” fetal videos should know that FDA views this as an unapproved use of a medical device.  In addition, those who subject individuals to ultrasound exposure using a diagnostic ultrasound device (a prescription device) without a physician’s order may be in violation of State or local laws or regulations regarding use of a prescription medical device.”

The EPA adds, “Exposing the fetus to ultrasound with no anticipation of medical benefit is not justified.”

Three prominent Connecticut doctors added their voices in support of the bill. 

"Prenatal ultrasound examinations should be limited to appropriately trained medical professionals for medical purposes.  Hospitals and medical facilities take great care to be sure that both ultrasound equipment and ultrasound technologists meet the highest standards for safety of both the woman and the unborn baby. In addition, maintenance and care of the equipment are carefully monitored for safety... I applaud the introduction of this bill and lend my heartfelt support to this effort,” Dr. Margretta Seashore, Director, Genetic Consultation Service and Director, Biochemical Disease Detection Laboratory, Department of Genetics; Yale University School of Medicine, another champion of the bill, stated.

Joshua Copel, M.D., Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science and Pediatrics at Yale School of Medicine and Vice Chairman of Obstetrics at Yale New-Haven Hospital submitted, “I am currently the President of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, a multidisciplinary society of over 7,500 physicians, sonographers and scientists dedicated to the safe and effective use of ultrasound….the machines are used at these non-medical facilities are bought from unknown sources and are not required to undergo any specific maintenance to ensure proper performance.  The individuals performing the scans may or may not be trained professional sonographers, so there is no way to ascertain their knowledge of the potential for ultrasound bioeffects on the developing fetus, or their ability or willingness to practice safe sonography.”

Edmund Funai, M.D., Associate Chair, Clinical Affairs, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Co-Chief Section of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Associate Professor Yale School of Medicine and Chief of Obstetrics at Yale-New Haven Hospital had this to say when he offered his testimony to the Public Health Committee, “Although there are no confirmed biological effects on patients caused by exposures from present diagnostic ultrasound instruments, the possibility exists that such biological effects may be identified in the future.  Thus ultrasound should be used in a prudent manner to provide medical benefit to the patient.”  He added, “Please note that ultrasound is a form of energy used for many purposes in industry and medicine…at very high levels, ultrasound is used to shatter kidney stones.”

May 28, 2009

REP. REED ANNOUNCES BILL CREATING
LONG ISLAND SOUND COMMISSION PASSES HOUSE

State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) helped lead passage of a bill in the House of Representatives that creates a Bi-State Long Island Sound Commission.  Senate Bill 1078, An Act Establishing a Bi-State Long Island Sound Commission, unanimously passed the house last evening. 

“We defeated Broadwater and Islander East, but they will not be the last threats to Long Island Sound,” said Rep. Reed.  “This commission offers a long-term solution to protecting and preserving the Sound and creates a mechanism for working together on regional energy challenges.”

"Long Island Sound is Connecticut's greatest natural resource, and this bill will assure cooperation between Connecticut and New York and the protection of the Sound's water quality, ecology and good environment generally,” said State Senator Ed Meyer (D-Guilford), the Senate Chairman of the Environment Committee.  “Further, the bill will hopefully prevent any further attempts like Broadwater to industrialize the Sound."

“This is smart legislation that will help conserve state resources but more importantly, it will build a cohesive and necessary alliance with Connecticut's Long Island Sound co-owner-- New York” said Leah Schmalz, Director of Legislative and Legal Affairs for Save the Sound.  “This collaboration is a vital element if we are to truly protect our treasured landscape."

The bill establishes a commission that would review major environmental, ecological and energy issues involving Long Island Sound and make recommendations to Connecticut and New York lawmakers.

Rep. Reed added, “During the campaigns to stop Broadwater and the Islander East pipeline, we developed many wonderful relationships with folks in New York.  This commission is a great way to build on those relationships and continue working together to find regional solutions that make sense.”

Before joining the Connecticut General Assembly this year, Rep. Reed was a statewide environmental leader who co-founded Hands Across Our Pond, an initiative that helped bring Connecticut and New York together to oppose the Broadwater liquefied natural gas barge and 23 mile long pipeline proposed for Long Island Sound.  She also authored Connecticut's first anti-Broadwater resolution that was approved by Branford.

The bill repeals the Bi-State Long Island Sound Marine and replaces it with a bi-State Long Island Sound Commission.  The commission will operate under the Department of Environmental Protection and provide an annual report of its findings to the legislature and the governors of both Connecticut and New York.  The bill passed the State Senate last week and now awaits the Governor’s signature.

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District.  Rep Reed sits on the legislature's Environment Committee, General Law Committee, and the Planning and Development Committee.

May 22, 2009

REP. REED’S LEGISLATION COMBATING FINANCIAL SCAMS PASSES HOUSE

State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) announced her bill protecting senior citizens from financial crimes was unanimously approved with a bi-partisan vote of the House of Representatives today.

Rep. Reed’s bill would prohibit financial consultants and life insurance agents from claiming to have certification or training in advising senior citizens unless their degree has been granted by a legitimate entity recognized by the state.

“Seniors are often targeted by unscrupulous hucksters who use bogus titles such as ‘Certified Senior Advisor’ and ‘Certified Elder Planning Specialist’ to pretend they have high-level training or special knowledge of how retirees should invest their money," said Rep. Reed.  “Many of these phony credentials are created by companies that sell financial products and conferred on their sales forces to gain advantage.”

Citizens 55 and older make up 70% of our nation’s investors.  Americans 65 and older hold $65 trillion, the largest pool of assets ever amassed by an aging population, according to the Government Accountability Office.

“As senior wealth has grown, so have bogus programs providing these so-called credentials,” said Rep. Reed. "Some of these advisors don’t even take a pretend course.  They just make up a title and prey on seniors.”

Rep. Reed introduced this bill after an older member of her family was defrauded by someone calling himself a Certified Financial Specialist.

“He was a retired corporate executive and very savvy,” Rep Reed said. “If he could be scammed, I knew this could happen to anyone. And I knew that there ought to be a law against such deceptive practices."

Rep. Reed expressed gratitude for the bi-partisan support she received from her House colleagues as well as from the State Departments of Banking and Insurance.

The bill will now go to the State Senate for consideration.  If Connecticut passes this bill, it would be join California and Massachusetts who have similar laws.

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District.  Representative Reed sits on the legislature's Environment Committee, General Law Committee, and the Planning and Development Committee. 

May 6, 2009

WIDLITZ, REED ANNOUNCE STIMULUS MONEY AVAILABLE FOR BRANFORD

State Representatives Patricia Widlitz (D-Branford, Guilford) and Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) announced that the state has allocated to the Town of Branford a total of $108,926 in federal stimulus money for use in energy efficiency programs.

Under federal guidelines, the funds can be used towards energy audits, retro fits, energy distribution, establishing financial incentives to encourage energy efficiency, or developing a conservation and efficiency strategy.  The town can choose how to use this funding based on a way that suits it best.

“This is an excellent way to bring federal stimulus dollars home to Branford and put it to good use in a way that will benefit the town,” Widlitz said.  “It also has the added gain of increasing energy efficiency in the town and thus reducing municipal operating expenses.”

“This is a worthwhile federal energy efficiency program, and the associated stimulus money which comes at a time when our town needs it the most,” Reed said.  “Whenever we can bring dollars back into Branford it’s a win.”

In order to secure the funding, the town is required to provide the State Office of Policy and Management (OPM) with a plan by May 26 outlining its proposed usage of the funds.

May 5, 2009

SHORELINE LEGISLATORS GAIN APPROVAL OF BILL IMPROVING SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT PROGRAMS

The House of Representatives has approved legislation introduced by State Representatives Patricia Widlitz (D-Branford, Guilford), Deb Heinrich (D-Madison, Guilford), and Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) that will require stores to prominently display a sign explaining the details of any senior citizen discounts that it may offer.

The lawmakers said the legislation was necessary because although many stores offer senior discounts, few make the discount well-known, and many consumers are reluctant to ask the cashier if they qualify because they don’t want to verbally disclose their age in front of other people.

“I’ve heard from many people who are reluctant to ask the cashier whether or not they qualify for a discount because they don’t want to state their age,” Widlitz explained.  “By simply posting a sign, it will be easier for seniors to find out if they qualify.  This legislation is good for consumers and will also benefit businesses that offer seniors an incentive to patronize their stores.”

Under the legislation, stores will be required to post the sign in a conspicuous place, such as the store entrance or at the cash registers.

“This legislation is a no brainer.  Retailers should be required to post senior discounts in a visible location,” Heinrich said.  “It would be helpful for our seniors to know when they are eligible for a discount and especially helpful not to have to be asked their age in front of a line of customers.”

“Seniors should be able to enjoy the savings they deserve with a simple process that respects their dignity,” Reed stated.  “In this economy, every dollar saved matters more than ever, particularly for folks living on fixed incomes.”

Guilford resident Joe Wonoski testified in support of the legislation earlier this year at the State Capitol, telling lawmakers that posting these signs would be similar to the signs that explain a store’s return policies.

“This proposed legislation would not require businesses to offer senior pricing, nor does it attempt to standardize any eligibility requirements,” Wonoski told lawmakers.  “The only requirement would be that the owner make it known what the policy is, if at all.”

The legislation next needs to gain the approval of the State Senate.

April 30, 2009

SHORELINE WOMEN LEGISLATORS TEAM UP
TO FIGHT FOR PROPER USE OF OBSTETRICAL ULTRASOUND
Legislation Passes House of Representatives

State Representatives Deb Heinrich (D-Madison, Guilford), Patricia Widlitz (D-Guilford, Branford), and Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) overwhelmingly passed a bill out of the House of Representatives today that will crack down on non-medical facilities that offer entertainment ultrasounds to pregnant women.

“Ultrasound is a medical tool that comes with risk,” said Representative Heinrich.  “Ultrasounds for pregnant women should be used solely for medical and diagnostic purposes and only with a prescription from a licensed medical professional.  If you go to their websites, you will notice that these businesses will claim that ultrasound is perfectly safe.  They tell women that there is no risk.  The medical community does not agree.”

“Medical procedures should not be used for fun,” adds Representative Widlitz.  “I remember when X-rays were used to see if children’s feet fit into shoes.  Then they found out that X-rays were harmful and banned the use of those medical devices in shoe stores.  We cannot allow this misuse of prescriptive medical devices to endanger unsuspecting pregnant women.  In my opinion this is one of the most important pieces of legislation to come before the chamber this session.”

“This is a serious public health issue involving unnecessary medical scanning that was literally flying under the radar or more correctly, under the sonar.  I am proud to have joined forces with two of my shoreline colleagues to help better protect our citizens,” said Representative Lonnie Reed.

The legislation is aimed at a growing trend of “boutique” operations that purchase ultrasound equipment over the internet and then offer “keepsake” pictures and videos for pregnant women.

The FDA agrees, stating in an opinion that discourages the use of ultrasound for non-medical purposes like these, “Ultrasound energy delivered to the fetus cannot be regarded as completely innocuous.  Lab studies have shown that diagnostic levels of ultrasound can produce physical effects in tissue such as mechanical vibrations and rise in temperature.”  They go on to say, “Persons who promote, sell or lease ultrasound equipment for making “keepsake” fetal videos should know that FDA views this as an unapproved use of a medical device.  In addition, those who subject individuals to ultrasound exposure using a diagnostic ultrasound device (a prescription device) without a physician’s order may be in violation of State or local laws or regulations regarding use of a prescription medical device.”

The EPA adds, “Exposing the fetus to ultrasound with no anticipation of medical benefit is not justified.”

Two prominent Connecticut doctors added their voices in support of the bill.  Joshua Copel, M.D., Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science and Pediatrics at Yale School of Medicine and Vice Chairman of Obstetrics at Yale New-Haven Hospital submitted, “I am currently the President of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, a multidisciplinary society of over 7,500 physicians, sonographers and scientists dedicated to the safe and effective use of ultrasound….the machines are used at these non-medical facilities are bought from unknown sources and are not required to undergo any specific maintenance to ensure proper performance.  The individuals performing the scans may or may not be trained professional sonographers, so there is no way to ascertain their knowledge of the potential for ultrasound bioeffects on the developing fetus, or their ability or willingness to practice safe sonography.”

Edmund Funai, M.D., Associate Chair, Clinical Affairs, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Co-Chief Section of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Associate Professor Yale School of Medicine and Chief of Obstetrics at Yale-New Haven Hospital had this to say when he offered his testimony to the Public Health Committee, “Although there are no confirmed biological effects on patients caused by exposures from present diagnostic ultrasound instruments, the possibility exists that such biological effects may be identified in the future.  Thus ultrasound should be used in a prudent manner to provide medical benefit to the patient.”  He added, “Please note that ultrasound is a form of energy used for many purposes in industry and medicine…at very high levels, ultrasound is used to shatter kidney stones.”

The bill will now proceed to the Floor of the Senate for a vote.

April 14, 2009

REP. REED & AG BLUMENTHAL FIGHT
FOR THE REMOVAL OF TOXINS IN BABY BOTTLES

State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) joined Attorney General Richard Blumenthal and other public officials to call for the phasing out of Bisphenol A (BPA) from children’s products, including baby bottles. Rep. Reed spoke in spoke in support of House Bill 6572 (An Act Concerning Banning Bisphenol-A in Children’s Products and Food Products and Prohibiting Certain Alternative Substances) outside the Legislative Office Building at a rally with a 20 foot baby bottle in the background. 

Rep. Reed helped steer the bill through the state legislature’s General Law Committee, which began meeting this morning as the rally got underway.  She reported to the cheering crowd that the bill had just won unanimous approval from all committee members present.

"As a breast cancer survivor who has followed the BPA issue closely, I am deeply troubled by laboratory tests showing that BPA feeds breast cancer cells, making them multiply,” Rep. Reed said.  “Clearly, children should not be ingesting this toxin.  At the very least, we must act now to protect our most vulnerable citizens.”

BPA is a chemical used to make epoxy resin and plastic products, including some kinds of baby bottles and food containers. Proponents of banning BPA say it has been inked to insulin resistance, reproductive problems, learning disabilities, and prostate cancer. Many companies have already stopped using BPA in their products and some retailers, notably Wal-Mart and Toys "R" Us, no longer carry baby bottles with BPA.

The bill will now go to the full House of Representatives for consideration. There are over a dozen states considering similar legislation to phase out BPA from food and beverage containers this year.

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District.  Rep Reed sits on the legislature's Environment Committee, General Law Committee, and the Planning and Development Committee. 

State Rep. Lonnie Reed speaks at a State Capitol rally in support of legislation that would ban products such as baby bottles and food containers made with the chemical bisphenol-A. Attorney General Richard Blumenthal (right) joined Reed in calling for the ban.

March 24, 2009

SEN. MEYER, REP. REED WELCOME $5.4 MILLION INVESTMENT
TO EXPAND BRANFORD TRAIN PARKING LOT

BRANFORD – State Sen. Ed Meyer (D-Guilford) and state Rep. Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) are proud to announce that the Branford Shore Line East Rail Station at 39 Maple Street will soon add 316 much-needed surface parking spaces, thanks to a new $5.4 million grant approved by the Obama Administration as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The project, which is “shovel-ready,” will take 18 months to complete and is expected to employ 50 people full-time during construction. The increased ridership afforded by the enlarged parking lot is also expected to benefit area businesses.

“In 2005, the Branford Shore Line East station received a much-needed facelift, but the lack of parking always remained a problem. It’s as if the station was a victim of its own popularity,” Sen. Meyer said. “I’m so pleased that President Obama and the State are recognizing the value and popularity of commuting by rail by making this significant commitment to increased parking. This project will be a real boon to commuters and businesses. It’s good for our environment, and it will save shoreline residents money as gas prices continue to rise.”

“As a commuter myself who frequently uses this train, I can tell you that it is packed to capacity,” Rep. Reed said. “People are really understanding and embracing mass transit. In addition to creating jobs and helping local businesses, this project is also a great way to move forward into the future as we seek to emerge from our troubled economy.”

The expanded parking lot will provide Branford-area commuters with increased opportunities to take Shore Line East, instead of driving, thereby avoiding typical delays on Interstate 95 and particularly with the traffic delays caused by the reconstruction of the Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge (the “Q-Bridge”) in New Haven.

The project will be built on a parcel of land that abuts the existing Shore Line East station, and it will be ringed by retaining walls and a storm-water pond. The lot will be accessed from a new arch-span bridge that will be constructed over a tidal wetland.

March 20, 2009

LAWMAKERS CHAMPION BILL TO LOWER ELECTRIC BILLS

State Representative Vicki Orsini Nardello (D-Prospect), the House Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee House, announced that a bill creating a state agency to coordinate Connecticut’s electricity needs passed the state legislature’s Energy and Technology Committee late yesterday. Despite extreme opposition from large energy corporations and their lobbyists, the bill passed 15 to 6. House Bill 6510, An Act Establishing a Power Authority, would establish the Connecticut Electric Authority (CEA).

“This bill is long overdue," said Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) “The idea here is to shake up the system by introducing a new entity that bi-passes the middlemen, such as hedge funds, and buys electricity directly from the generators. That savings can then be passed onto Connecticut consumers who currently pay among the highest electric rates in the continental US. This proposed CEA is designed to be lean and mean and proactive in going after the best wholesale prices available."

Brenda Kelley, the State Director of AARP Connecticut added, “AARP would like to commend members of the Energy and Technology Committee for their bi-partisan support in moving forward legislation to create a public power authority in Connecticut. HB 6510 has the potential to rein in Connecticut’s sky-high electricity rates and help taxpayers save up to 20 percent on their energy bills. We look forward to working with legislators from both sides of the aisle to create a public power authority that will bring transparency and competition to the electricity market and result in lower energy rates for consumers and businesses.”

Rep. Nardello said “A public power authority will return state control to the process of procuring electricity. The authority's primary mission will be lowering costs to ratepayers. It will also purchase or finance plants when necessary making sure that we have adequate power supply. The committee recognizes that ratepayers need relief from the high cost of electricity.”

The CEA would be authorized to provide a wide range of services, including purchasing electricity for Connecticut users, financing, building or buying power plants, and creating efficiency measures to lower costs. Having a single state agency responsible for these services, which are currently handled by a variety of different state agencies, would provide real long-term savings for both the state and Connecticut residents.

Electricity would continue to be delivered to consumers by United Illuminating and Connecticut Light and Power, but the CEA would purchase electricity in bulk for both residential and business users. Rates could be lowered by as much as 20%, providing some relief to Connecticut consumers, who currently pay the highest energy rates in the country. Neither the state nor Connecticut taxpayers would bear any additional costs as a result of this bill. It is funded by ratepayers who are expected to pay an additional $1.50 per year for the opportunity to save significantly on their monthly bills.

Attorney General Dick Blumenthal, AARP, and many consumer groups submitted testimony in support of this bill at public hearings over the past few months. The bill will now go to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District. Rep Reed sits on the legislature's Environment Committee, General Law Committee, and the Planning and Development Committee.

March 16, 2009

REP. REED & AG BLUMENTHAL CALL FOR COMMISSION TO PROTECT THE SOUND

State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) joined forces with Attorney General Richard Blumenthal and key legislative leaders to champion a bi-State Long Island Sound Commission. The proposed commission would review major environmental, ecological and energy issues involving Long Island Sound and make recommendations to Connecticut and New York lawmakers.

“Ensuring that Long Island Sound is protected was one of the reasons I ran for office last fall,” Rep. Reed said. “We said no to Broadwater and that project appears to be dead, but Broadwater will not be the last proposal to threaten the Sound.”

Rep. Reed added, "There are sane, responsible ways to meet our region's energy needs and they begin by choosing responsible projects that work for our citizens without destroying our environment."

Before joining the Connecticut General Assembly this year, Rep. Reed was a statewide environmental leader who co-founded Hands Across Our Pond, an initiative that helped bring Connecticut and New York together to oppose the Broadwater liquefied natural gas barge and 23 mile long pipeline proposed for Long Island Sound.

“New York and Connecticut worked together to defeat Broadwater proving that Long Island Sound does not divide us; it connects us,” said Rep. Reed. “Creating an effective bi-state commission builds on the relationships that blossomed during the battles against Broadwater and the Islander East pipeline. Connecticut and New York are poised to take advantage of new opportunities to work together for a future that includes abundant supplies of clean energy and a clean, robust environment.”

Senate Bill 1078, An Act Establishing a Bi-State Long Island Sound Commission, would repeal the Bi-State Long Island Sound Marine and replace it with a bi-State Long Island Sound Commission. The bill will face a committee vote in the state legislature’s Environment Committee and in the coming weeks make its way to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

Representative Lonnie Reed is serving her first term representing Branford’s 102nd District. Rep Reed sits on the legislature's Environment Committee, General Law Committee, and the Planning and Development Committee.

March 13, 2009

SHORELINE WOMEN LEGISLATORS TEAM UP TO FIGHT
FOR PROPER USE OF OBSTETRICAL ULTRASOUND

State Representatives Deb Heinrich (D-Madison, Guilford), Patricia Widlitz (D-Guilford, Branford), and Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) unanimously passed a bill out of the Public Health Committee today that will crack down on non-medical facilities that offer entertainment ultrasounds to pregnant women.

“Ultrasound is a medical tool that comes with risk,” said Representative Heinrich.  “Ultrasounds for pregnant women should be used solely for medical and diagnostic purposes and only with a prescription from a licensed medical professional.  If you go to their websites, you will notice that these businesses will claim that ultrasound is perfectly safe.  They tell women that there is no risk.  The medical community does not agree.”

“Medical procedures should not be used for fun,” adds Representative Widlitz.  “I remember when X-rays were used to see if children’s feet fit into shoes.  Then they found out that X-rays were harmful and banned the use of those medical devices in shoe stores.  We cannot allow this misuse of prescriptive medical devices to endanger unsuspecting pregnant women.”

“This is a serious public health issue involving unnecessary medical scanning that was literally flying under the radar.  I am proud to have joined forces with two of my shoreline colleagues to help better protect our citizens,” said Representative Lonnie Reed.

The legislation is aimed at a growing trend of storefront businesses that purchase ultrasound equipment over the internet and then offer “keepsake” pictures and videos for pregnant women.

The FDA agrees, stating in an opinion that discourages the use of ultrasound for non-medical purposes like these, “Ultrasound energy delivered to the fetus cannot be regarded as completely innocuous.  Lab studies have shown that diagnostic levels of ultrasound can produce physical effects in tissue such as mechanical vibrations and rise in temperature.”  They go on to say, “Persons who promote, sell or lease ultrasound equipment for making “keepsake” fetal videos should know that FDA views this as an unapproved use of a medical device.  In addition, those who subject individuals to ultrasound exposure using a diagnostic ultrasound device (a prescription device) without a physician’s order may be in violation of State or local laws or regulations regarding use of a prescription medical device.”

The EPA adds, “Exposing the fetus to ultrasound with no anticipation of medical benefit is not justified.”

Two prominent Connecticut doctors added their voices in support of the bill.  Joshua Copel, M.D., Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science and Pediatrics at Yale School of Medicine and Vice Chairman of Obstetrics at Yale New-Haven Hospital submitted, “I am currently the President of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, a multidisciplinary society of over 7,500 physicians, sonographers and scientists dedicated to the safe and effective use of ultrasound….the machines are used at these non-medical facilities are bought from unknown sources and are not required to undergo any specific maintenance to ensure proper performance.  The individuals performing the scans may or may not be trained professional sonographers, so there is no way to ascertain their knowledge of the potential for ultrasound bioeffects on the developing fetus, or their ability or willingness to practice safe sonography.”

Edmund Funai, M.D., Associate Chair, Clinical Affairs, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Co-Chief Section of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Associate Professor Yale School of Medicine and Chief of Obstetrics at Yale-New Haven Hospital had this to say when he offered his testimony to the Public Health Committee, “Although there are no confirmed biological effects on patients caused by exposures from present diagnostic ultrasound instruments, the possibility exists that such biological effects may be identified in the future.  Thus ultrasound should be used in a prudent manner to provide medical benefit to the patient.”  He added, “Please note that ultrasound is a form of energy used for many purposes in industry and medicine…at very high levels, ultrasound is used to shatter kidney stones.”

The bill will now proceed to the Floor of the House of Representatives.

January 7, 2009

REED SWORN IN AS BRANFORD’S NEW STATE REPRESENTATIVE
Appointed To Serve On Three Legislative Committees

State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) was sworn in by Connecticut’s Secretary of the State today as the new State Representative serving the 102nd General Assembly District in Branford.

The ceremony took place at the State Capitol in Hartford during the opening day of the 2009 session of the state legislature.

Rep. Reed has been appointed by newly elected Speaker of the House Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) to serve on the Energy and Technology, Planning and Development and General Law Committees.

“I am very grateful to the residents of the 102nd  District for giving me the honor of representing them in the General Assembly,” Rep.Reed said. “There is no question that we will be seriously challenged during the upcoming session, particularly on the budget and economic issues. However, I am confident that by working together we will succeed in reaching our goals and protecting our citizens. I pledge to listen and to work hard.”

The membership of the state legislature serves two-year terms. The 2009 legislative session ends on Wednesday, June 3.

Rep. Reed can be contacted by calling her office at the State Capitol, toll free, at 1-800-842-8267. E-mail is Lonnie.Reed@cga.ct.gov.