Travis Simms

As we wrapped up the last six months of work, one of the most talked about issues was the state budget, but equally important are many measures we passed that may be of interest.

We’re just a few days away from a new law taking effect that will help contribute to a better environment. Our statewide efforts to curb the use of single-use plastic bags goes into effect on Aug. 1.

A number of new laws took effect this month that address various issues.

The General Assembly’s regular session ended June 5th with a balanced budget and other significant legislation. I’d like to highlight some of the issues we addressed in the new state budget and other impactful legislation.

Connecticut has the third-highest accumulated student loan debt in the country and the financial burden that our college graduates must shoulder after growing up here is driving many of them to other states where housing and the cost of living is cheaper.

I am pleased to report the House passed legislation that will facilitate minority teacher recruitment and retention across the state.

We passed a bill requiring the instruction of climate change in our public schools. It would be included in the science curriculum and based on guidelines consistent with the Next Generation Science Standards.

After many hours of debate over the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) legislation, House Democrats passed a bill which was already approved by the Senate. It now goes to the governor for his signature.