Kara Rochelle

The mental health and well-being of our community's youth and families has been a leading priority of mine. While we saw a rise in depression, anxiety, self-harm, and other forms of distress in young people prior to the pandemic, the increased isolation and uncertainty that has come from the past two years has exacerbated this issue. HB 5001 was developed as a bipartisan and collaborative effort to provide additional support, resources and structural change to the children's mental health system in Connecticut.

We celebrate the achievements, accomplishments and contributions Black Americans have made to this country, of which there are many, each February during National Black History Month.

A nor'easter is headed to Connecticut this weekend, bringing over 12 inches of snow starting Friday evening into Saturday. Connecticut's severe weather protocol is in effect until February 2. A winter storm could last several hours, cause power outages, and put older adults, children, and sick individuals at higher risk.

The Federal Government launched a website for Americans wanting to request free at-home COVID-19 testing kits. You can request your free COVID-19 testing kits at COVIDTests.gov. Up to 4 at-home tests per residential address may be requested. Tests are expected to ship within 7- 12 days of ordering through the United States Postal Service (USPS).

On Tuesday, the Connecticut State Bond Commission approved $12 million to match a federal grant to renovate the Derby-Shelton Multimodal Station! 

I am pleased to announce $200,000 for TEAM, Inc. to replace its elevator and windows at its headquarters building at 30 Elizabeth Street in Derby has been added to the Connecticut State Bond Commission's agenda for its meeting on December 21st!

I am pleased to announce that Connecticut's landmark Paid Family and Medical Leave Program applications are now being accepted for Connecticut residents who want to participate in the state’s program. Claims are being accepted for qualifying events that are happening on or after January 1, 2022.

I would like to wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving! As you gather with friends, near and far and give thanks for the many blessings received throughout the year, I hope your holiday is filled with peace, health and gratitude.