In the News
Police accountability law plays big role in Bristol investigation on two slain officers
Fox 61 -- October 18, 2022
It’s been just five days since the tragedy in Bristol, and already, we’ve seen body camera video, a report by the Office of the Inspector General, and cause of death information from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. So what has contributed to this expedited flow of information?
What President Biden's clearing of cannabis charges means for Connecticut
CT Post -- October 7, 2022
While thousands of people convicted for federal cannabis possession laws will be cleared by President Joe Biden's surprise blanket pardon this week that acknowledges a failure of the multi-decade war on drugs, Connecticut's 2021 retail-sales law already paved the way for similar cases here.
Here are the new CT laws going into effect October 1 – from dating apps to tethering dogs
CT Post -- September 26, 2022
Among the more than 70 new state laws that take effect on October 1, is a requirement that police notify the families of deceased people within 24 hours of their identification, or risk their jobs.
Garcia, 2 other insiders finalists for Bridgeport's top cop
CT Post -- September 21, 2022
What was billed as a wide-ranging search for a new police chief has resulted in three homegrown finalists from within the department, including Acting Chief Rebeca Garcia.
CT's top prosecutor opens criminal probe into troopers' fake ticket schemes
CT Post -- August 31, 2022
Connecticut’s top prosecution office on Wednesday announced the opening of a criminal investigation into new revelations by Hearst Connecticut Media Group that four state police troopers collectively created hundreds of fake traffic tickets to bolster their productivity and standing with supervisors.
At $249 per day in Connecticut, prison stays leave ex-inmates deep in debt
The Associated Press -- August 29, 2022
Two decades after her release from prison, Teresa Beatty feels she is still being punished.
When her mother died two years ago, the state of Connecticut put a lien on the Stamford home she and her siblings inherited. It said she owed $83,762 to cover the cost of her 2 1/2 year imprisonment for drug crimes.
After 10 years of rejecting the legal marijuana industry, Bridgeport will now welcome it
CT Post -- August 1, 2022
Connecticut’s largest municipality has reversed course and is now putting up the “welcome” sign for legalized cannabis businesses.
Members of the zoning commission this week approved amended regulations allowing recreational marijuana retail sales in a majority of the city’s commercial strips, undoing last fall’s vote that defined this new industry the same as strip clubs and pornography shops and hid the future storefronts away.
Bridgeport pilates studio gets $10K from women’s business group
CT Post -- July 2, 2022
At a recent visit to the city’s only Pilates studio, state Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, learned how to do double leg presses.
Connecticut's Democrat leaders condemn Supreme Court's 2nd Amendment ruling
CT Fox 61 -- June 23, 2022
The U.S. Supreme Court struck down a long-time restrictive gun law in New York on Thursday, upholding the 2nd Amendment.
Lawmakers call state police misconduct ‘a serious problem’ following Hearst CT series
Some question if more should be done beyond 2020 police accountability reforms
CT Insider -- June 15, 2022
State lawmakers say a Hearst Connecticut Media Group investigation into state police misconduct underscores the importance of major legislative reforms they approved in 2020 and raises questions about if more should be done to bring additional accountability to policing.
Drafted to prevent mass shootings, CT’s red flag law increasingly used to stop suicides, domestic violence
CT Insider -- June 13, 2022
After a car crash in February left her father face down in the snow with a six pack of beer left in his car, a New Haven woman called police concerned that her father was repeating the kinds of suicidal threats he had made in the past while dealing with alcoholism.
Lamont’s Vetoes Will Stand
CT News Junkie -- June 13, 2022
In short technical sessions Monday morning, the state legislature declined to take further action on either of the two bills vetoed by Gov. Ned Lamont following the 2022 legislative session.
Some CT Democrats support raising minimum age to buy rifles, shotguns
CT Post -- June 12, 2022
In the wake of two deadly mass shootings carried out by 18-year-olds, several key Connecticut lawmakers — all Democrats — said they would support an idea that has gained steam in neighboring New York: raising the minimum age for purchasing most firearms.
Connecticut expands its long-established red flag law
WSHU Public Radio -- June 2, 2022
Connecticut was the first state to pass a red flag law in 1999, after a shooting at the state lottery headquarters in Newington.
Connecticut’s legalized marijuana law is turning to the workplace. Are bosses and employees ready?
Hartford Courant -- May 27, 2022
Workplace-related provisions of Connecticut’s marijuana law take effect this summer, introducing job-related rules a year after adult recreational marijuana was made legal in the state.
Lamont says CT ‘could have done a better job’ with gun legislation as advocates push on national level
CT Post -- May 25, 2022
A somber Gov. Ned Lamont on Wednesday joined a survivor of the Sandy Hook School shooting, gun-safety advocates, members of Congress and state lawmakers in calling for long-delayed national gun-safety legislation in the wake of the Texas school massacre.
Bridgeport hoping to fill $7M budget hole with last minute boost in state aid
CT Post -- May 4, 2022
As the Connecticut budget came together this week, the fiscal plan for its largest municipality seemed to be suddenly falling apart, then salvaged.
Unions win final passage of Connecticut ‘captive audience’ ban. Business leader calls it ‘unconstitutional, anti-employer bill.’
CT Mirror -- April 30, 2022
One of organized labor’s two legislative priorities in 2022 — a ban on “captive audience” meetings that unions say are used to thwart organizing — won final passage late Friday night in the Connecticut House of Representatives.
Solitary Confinement Bill Headed To Lamont’s Desk Again
CT News Junkie -- April 29, 2022
In a divided vote late Thursday, the House approved legislation limiting the use of solitary confinement in Connecticut prisons, sending the bill to Gov. Ned Lamont, who vetoed a similar policy last year.
House Approves Youth Crime Bill With GPS Monitoring of Repeat Offenders
CT News Junkie -- April 28, 2022
After hours of emotional debate Thursday night, the Connecticut House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill aimed at reducing youth crime, which drew complaints from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.
CT death notification bill will help Lauren Smith-Fields’ family ‘sleep a little better at night’
CT Post -- April 27, 2022
As the state House voted unanimously Wednesday to require police to notify the families of deceased relatives within 24 hours, the family of Lauren Smith-Fields, whose death inspired the legislation, looked on with tears in their eyes.
Connecticut lawmakers consider a bill to protect transit workers from violent customers
CT Public -- April 5, 2022
On Monday, the Connecticut Judiciary Committee held a hearing on a bill that would protect state transit workers from being assaulted by violent customers.
Under the new rule, violators could be charged with aggravated assault and face up to five years in prison.
Time is running short for CT ‘aid-in-dying’ legislation
CT Post -- April 2, 2022
With just a month left in the legislative session, supporters of a bill that would allow terminally ill patients to determine when they might die is in a race with the calendar.
Next of kin notification bill based on Bridgeport cases will go to CT lawmakers for a vote
CT Post -- March 29, 2022
A key committee on Tuesday passed a bill that requires police to notify next of kin within 24 hours after a relative is found dead.
The legislation grew out of two instances in Bridgeport in which families said police failed to notify them about the death of a loved one.
Cannabis in CT: What to know about police stops, DUI, past arrests
CT Post -- March 24, 2022
So, back to that 295-page piece of legislation governing cannabis in Connecticut. It’s all important, but some pieces will affect the average person more than others. For parts four and five of this series, we’ll focus on those pieces.
Republicans lead opposition to Gov. Lamont’s crime, gun-safety proposals
CT Post -- March 14, 2022
Republicans on Monday criticized Gov. Ned Lamont’s firearms initiatives, charging that the proposed measures would violate the constitutional rights of gun owners.
Parents testify for police notice of deaths within 24 hours in Connecticut
The family of two Black women who died on the same day last year — Lauren Smith-Fields and Brenda Lee Rawls — said they were never contacted by police about the deaths.
NBC News -- March 10, 2022
The families of two Black women who died on the same day last December in Connecticut testified at a public hearing Wednesday in support of a bill that would require police to notify families of the death of a loved one within 24 hours of identification.
Bridgeport, New Haven legislators want end to billing of former inmates
CT Post -- February 17, 2022
Two state legislators joined a group of community activists Thursday is calling for the repeal of a 25-year-old law that requires some previously incarcerated individuals to help pay the cost of their incarceration.
State Sen. Gary Winfield, D-New Haven, and State Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, co-chairmen of the legislature’s Judiciary Committee, announced Thursday at a press conference their support of a bill repealing the incarceration lien law that requires those who have served time in prison to turn over assets from lawsuits or inheritances to the state.
Lamont proposes these gun-safety and anti-crime initiatives for CT
CT Post -- February 7, 2022
Gov. Ned Lamont on Monday proposed a wide-ranging series of anti-crime and gun-safety measures, including $64 million in new spending to hire more state and local police, reduce juvenile crime and revive a dormant gun-trafficking task force.
CT Republicans want to ease rules on cops, toughen laws on juveniles
CT Post -- February 2, 2022
House Republicans this week charged that Democrats have gotten too tough on cops and too lenient on juveniles, announcing a legislative agenda that would make youths who commit crimes more accountable, while ending some of the key police transparency requirements adopted by the General Assembly after the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020.
Lawmakers to Tackle Fentanyl Crisis
NBC-Connecticut -- January 30, 2022
When lawmakers return to the state capitol on Feb. 9, they will debate strategies to reduce the rise in fentanyl-related overdoses and deaths - which recently included a 13-year-old in Hartford.
Lawmakers mull strategies to cut the rise of fentanyl-related overdoses
CT Post -- January 27, 2022
With the continued flow of the highly lethal synthetic opioid fentanyl into Connecticut, and a death toll that includes most recently a young Hartford teen who overdosed in his school, state lawmakers are considering a variety of potential strategies, from an increase in drug counseling and treatment to tougher criminal penalties.
Bridgeport scrambles to salvage state funding for Bassick High
CT Post -- January 12, 2022
The delayed effort to move the nearly 100-year-old Bassick High School from the West End to a new South End building is facing another setback.
City officials are counting on state lawmakers to reauthorize tens of millions of dollars in reimbursement for the now more expensive project during the the Connecticut General Assembly’s upcoming session.
Lawmakers are being questioned following the shooting of two police officers
WFSB -- October 27, 2021
Connecticut residents are now questioning local law enforcement following two police officer shootings. One shooting happened in Norwich, the other in Hartford.
Attorney general won't investigate Moales' Bridgeport church foreclosure
CT Post -- October 19, 2021
The state attorney general’s office will not involve itself in the foreclosure action against the Prayer Tabernacle Church of God and Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, the East End churches run by Rev. Kenneth Moales Jr. and founded by his father, Bishop Kenneth Moales, Sr.
Judicial branch: No marijuana allowed in CT courts
Fairfield Citizen -- September 21, 2021
Head on over to the state Judicial Department website and you’ll likely see a warning, emblazoned in bright, red text: “No cannabis (marijuana) is allowed in a courthouse.”
Downtown Fairfield Avenue renamed in honor of late state representative
The CT Post -- August 9, 2021
The street that best personified former state Rep. Ezequiel Santiago’s ability to connect with people now bears his name, according to a former colleague.
State Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, who served in the legislature with Santiago, said the stretch of Fairfield Avenue downtown was where Santiago would go to listen to the people that lived in the 130th District, which he represented for a decade.
How legalizing recreational marijuana will affect past convictions in CT
The Middletown Press -- August 2, 2021
Four years ago, Luis Vega was arrested with marijuana.
“They pulled 28 full plants out of my little makeshift grow in my basement,” he said.
Vega said those marijuana plants were for his own personal, medical use. Vega, originally from the Bronx, N.Y., but is now a New Haven resident, suffers from Crohn's disease, he said.
The lines of connection: States make millions off phone-call fees from incarcerated people, but the cost can be even higher for their families
The Atlantic -- July 29, 2021
In the opening pages of her new memoir, Somebody’s Daughter, the writer Ashley C. Ford describes growing up with an incarcerated father, who was sentenced when she was just 10 months old. He would spend the next 30 years in prison; he was released in 2019. In the book, part of what Ford writes about is how so much of her life—and the lives of those around her—was shaped by his absence.
'Early intervention is prevention' | Governor Lamont signs bill to support work curbing community violence
Fox 61 -- July 27, 2021
Governor Ned Lamont and various Connecticut officials and advocacy groups gathered at Hartford Communities That Care on Main Street today to witness the ceremonial bill signing of new gun safety legislation.
Police accountability taking shape one year later
CT News Junkie -- July 22, 2021
By the time Gov. Ned Lamont signed the 2020 police accountability law on July 31, the New Britain Police Department had already adopted many of its reforms as part of an extensive policy review and rewrite years earlier, said Chief Christopher Chute.
Suburban lawmakers face renewed calls to address car thefts in Connecticut. Car stolen in West Hartford had 2-year-old child inside.
Hartford Courant -- July 21, 2021
Lawmakers in West Hartford and other suburbs are facing fresh calls to address a spike in car thefts the day after a16-year-old allegedly stole a vehicle that had a 2-year-old child inside.
Bridgeport seeks state accreditation for police force
The CT Post -- July 10, 2021
Before last year’s nationwide police reform protests had elected officials scrambling to scrutinize and improve law enforcement in Connecticut’s largest city and statewide, Bridgeport’s force was attempting to upgrade policies and procedures.
CT lawmakers pledge to tackle juvenile crime
The Middletown Press -- July 7, 2021
A bipartisan group of lawmakers emerged from an afternoon meeting on juvenile crime at the state Capitol Wednesday with a conciliatory tone, and announced there’s agreement on how to address repeat offenders who commit serious offenses, including providing judges with more information about prior arrests.
Bridgeport elections watchdog funded by state budget
CT Post -- June 22, 2021
Wanted: Someone who has the trust of this city’s various political factions and is unafraid to be impartial and intervene in election-related controversies.
The just-passed state budget includes $150,000 to hire an elections monitor in Bridgeport for this year and next.
Lamont Signs Cannabis Legalization Bill Into Law
CT News Junkie -- June 22, 2021
Connecticut became the 19th state to legalize recreational cannabis for adults Tuesday as Gov. Ned Lamont signed the bill, flanked by lawmakers during a ceremony at the state Capitol building.
Justice for All: Police departments embrace body cam advantages
News 12 -- June 16, 2021
Connecticut police departments have a July 1, 2022 deadline to be outfitted with body cameras and dash cams. But for many in the state, cameras are already a way of life. The Stamford Police Department implemented its program more than three years ago.
Lamont signs bill wiping out criminal convictions, but with an objection
The Middletown Press -- June 10, 2021
Gov. Ned Lamont signed into a law Thursday a controversial bill that wipes out the records of criminal convictions after 10 years, including some felonies — but his approval has strings attached.
The law is seen by supporters as a major step toward criminal justice reform, and by opponents as a violation of victims’ rights.
Expanded domestic violence protections pass House
CT News Junkie -- June 4, 2021
After more than two hours of discussion, Friday evening the House overwhelmingly passed a domestic violence reform package unofficially called “Jennifers’ Law” that expands the definition of domestic violence and provides new support for victims.
Prison phone call bill gets final passage in CT, goes to governor
CT Mirror -- June 3, 2021
Members of the House of Representatives voted 94-51 shortly after midnight on Friday to make it free for the 8,960 people in prisons and jails to call their loved ones, sending the bill to Gov. Ned Lamont’s desk.
Bill that expunges past records of 300,000 heads to governor
The Associated Press -- May 27, 2021
An estimated 300,000 people in Connecticut with misdemeanor and low-level felony records could ultimately have those convictions automatically erased under legislation that cleared the House of Representatives on Thursday.
For first time in Connecticut, investigators can demand people to talk. But there’s a big caveat. The investigative subpoenas can only be used on police
The Hartford Courant -- May 17, 2021
State prosecutors have pleaded for decades for a law enforcement tool their colleagues almost everywhere else in the country use routinely to crack open criminal conspiracies from gang murders to political bribery: An investigative subpoena that can be used to force reluctant witnesses to talk to investigators.
House Green-Lights ‘Red Flag’ Law Update
CT News Junkie -- May 12, 2021
The House voted Wednesday to update the state’s “red flag” law, which enables courts to issue risk warrants for police to seize firearms from potentially violent or suicidal people.
Bill would end racial designations on marriage licenses
The CT Post -- May 11, 2021
Marriage licenses would no longer require information on the race of people under legislation unanimously approved Tuesday by the House of Representatives.
Gun violence surged in Connecticut’s largest cities in 2020. Policymakers say it’s an epidemic that needs renewed attention
The Hartford Courant -- April 30, 2021
Following the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, state lawmakers passed some of the nation’s strictest gun control laws.
Yet the toll of gun violence in Connecticut’s largest cities has not stopped, leading for a call for a new state initiative to fund and implement programs to address the issue.
CT's "red flag" law is the only major gun bill moving forward this year
New Haven Register -- April 17, 2021
Connecticut’s “red flag” law is close to getting what Democrats see as critical updates for firearm safety.
This proposed revision to the current risk warrant law is the single biggest legislation raised on firearms this session, said State Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, who chairs the Judiciary Committee.
Risk Warrant Law May Get An Update
CT News Junkie -- April 7, 2021
The Judiciary Committee voted 27-11 Tuesday to move forward an updated version of the state’s risk protection warrant law.
Democrats advance reforms designed by Connecticut judges, attorneys to reduce racial bias in jury selection
The Hartford Courant -- April 6, 2021
A set of recommendations that would reform the way Connecticut trial juries are selected, including allowing recent felons and non-citizens to serve as members of a jury, received its first approval Tuesday from state lawmakers.
Lawmakers advance legal pot bill, but more changes promised
Associated Press -- April 6, 2021
Connecticut lawmakers on Tuesday advanced Gov. Ned Lamont’s proposal to legalize recreational marijuana, with legislative leaders cautioning that additional changes will likely be made to the legislation in the coming weeks.
Lawmakers move closer to legalizing marijuana in Connecticut
WFSB -- April 6, 2021
Legalizing recreational marijuana in Connecticut has moved a step closer.
On Tuesday, the Judiciary Committee voted ‘yes,’ most Democrats saying ‘yes,’ as most Republicans voted ‘no.’
Gov. Lamont’s cannabis bill passes out of Judiciary Committee, but not without changes
CT Mirror -- April 6, 2021
The Judiciary Committee voted narrowly Tuesday to advance a bill offered by Gov. Ned Lamont that would legalize recreational marijuana in Connecticut.
“The bill before us, I’m sure, will see additional revision as it moves through the legislative process and its next committee of assignment,” said Rep. Steven Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport and co-chair of the Judiciary Committee.
Automatic Erasure, Juvenile Parole Bills Advance
CT News Junkie -- April 6, 2021
Republicans and crime victims were left Monday rallying against the passage of two bills. One would allow those under 21 convicted of serious crimes to request parole and the other would automatically erase some criminal records.
Liable or not? Debate over COVID immunity playing out in CT
CT Post -- April 3, 2021
The debate over whether places like nursing homes, hospitals and companies should face liability for COVID cases is playing out in the state legislature.
Discussion over legalizing recreational marijuana continues in CT
WFSB Channel 3 -- April 1, 2021
The federal government considers it illegal but that’s not stopping states from legalizing recreational marijuana. New York just joined the list, so Connecticut is now surrounded by states where you can buy marijuana.
Judiciary Committee Sends Prison Phone Call Bill To Appropriations
CT News Junkie -- March 30, 2021
The Judiciary Committee voted along party lines Monday to move forward SB 972, which would make phone calls, emails and video visits to prison inmates free as of Oct.1, 2022.
Sudden windfall could help ease burden on Bridgeport taxpayers
CT Post -- March 21, 2021
How does it feel, after countless lean years, to finally hit the jackpot? This city is finding out.
Connecticut Legislature Approves New Police Deadly Force Guidelines
WNPR -- March 17, 2021
Connecticut representatives approved new guidelines for when police are allowed to use deadly force. The guidelines were approved last year after a series of protests over the police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.
House approves bill delaying changes to police deadly force rules
CT Mirror -- March 16, 2021
The House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill Tuesday that would delay changes mandating when police can use deadly force.
Changes to police accountability law move forward
NBC Connecticut -- March 8, 2021
Lawmakers took the first step Monday in modifying Connecticut’s groundbreaking and controversial police accountability law.
Connecticut lawmakers approve delaying police use of force law for 8 months, other tweaks to accountability bill passed last summer
The Hartford Courant -- March 8, 2021
In a compromise pushed by Connecticut police chiefs, a key legislative committee voted unanimously Monday to postpone a new law on police use of force by eight months.
State prosecutors say a proposed accountability law would strip them of discretion and politicize criminal justice
The Hartford Courant -- March 5, 2021
State prosecutors moved quickly Friday to challenge proposed new legislation that they say would erode their ability to make independent prosecutorial decisions while exposing them to political pressure.
Debate over legalizing Tasers and expanding gun seizures draws big online crowd of gun supporters, opponents
The Hartford Courant -- March 5, 2021
State lawmakers debated Friday over making it easier to take firearms away from troubled gun owners as they battled over the Second Amendment.
Mohegan tribe, Lamont reach deal on sports betting, online gaming
Stamford Advocate -- March 2, 2021
The Mohegan Tribal Nation has reached a solo deal with the Lamont administration for sports betting and online gambling, prompting two other gaming operators, including the tribe that owns Foxwoods Resort Casino, to lodge strongly worded objections.
Progressives, Lamont team signal compromise on marijuana bill
Danbury NewsTimes -- February 26, 2021
Tensions appeared to dissipate Friday between progressive Democrats and Gov. Ned Lamont’s administration on what an adult-use marijuana bill should look like.
Judiciary Committee hears testimony on changes to last summer’s police accountably bill
CT Mirror - February 22, 2021
Members of the Judiciary Committee heard testimony Monday from police officers and Connecticut’s top prosecutor on two bills that would make minor changes to the police accountability bill passed in the summer’s special session.
Connecticut's Use of Force Law Under Scrutiny Weeks Before it Takes Effect
NBC Connecticut - February 22, 2021
Part of Connecticut’s controversial police accountability law is getting a second look. Those in charge of putting the new rules into practice say the way it’s written right now may put officers who lay their lives on the line in more harm.
Connecticut chiefs, legislators seek delay in police use of force policy included in sweeping accountability law passed last summer
The Hartford Courant - February 22, 2021
With the law scheduled to change April 1, Connecticut police chiefs and lawmakers asked Monday for changes and an 18-month delay of the police use of force policy that was part of the sweeping accountability law passed last summer in response to high-profile police killings and racial justice protests.
After assault on U.S. Capitol, Connecticut lawmaker wants to overhaul laws against interfering with operations of state government
The Hartford Courant - February 11, 2021
In response to last month’s assault on the U.S. Capitol, a state lawmaker is proposing overhauling Connecticut’s laws governing those who interfere with the operations of state government.
Northern Correctional Institution, Connecticut’s first supermax prison, set to close this year
The Hartford Courant - February 8, 2021
Northern Correctional Institution, the state’s first supermax prison and a sprawling monument to the get-tough-on-crime era, will close July 1 as Connecticut’s prison population continues to decline, reaching a 32-year low.
Task force: CT cannabis industry should favor people charged with pot-related crimes
The Middletown Press - February 2, 2021
Minority communities that for generations have been targeted by law enforcement would receive major assistance to get into the marijuana business, under a plan that Gov. Ned Lamont will consider as he proposes full legalization.
Advocates push to end solitary confinement at CT prisons
Stamford Advocate – February 1, 2021
For Colleen Ward’s son, a struggle with correction officers put the accused parole violator in solitary confinement, where, she tearfully recalled, he died in March 2019.
Lamont put a quiet freeze on new judges. It's about to thaw.
CT Mirror – February 1, 2021
Gov. Ned Lamont, who has demonstrated little interest in the political nuances, benefits and occasional hazards entailed in appointing judges, is preparing to make his first class of nominations to a trial court system that has an unprecedented number of vacancies.
Key fobs, juvenile justice reform and repeat arrests: Towns and legislators look for solutions to plague of car crime in Connecticut
The Hartford Courant – February 1, 2021
Deluged with calls from residents victimized by car crimes, municipal leaders have called on state legislators to reform the juvenile justice system and get brazen thieves off the streets. Bills targeting repeat offenders and seeking longer detainment of car theft suspects have been introduced in the General Assembly.
Connecticut Supreme Court Justice Andrew McDonald approved by House for another 8-year term on high court
The Hartford Courant – January 14, 2021
After being defeated for chief justice in a bitter battle with Republicans in 2018, Justice Andrew McDonald was approved Thursday for another eight-year term on the Connecticut Supreme Court by the state House of Representatives.
Huge drop in traffic tickets in Connecticut from 2019-20; police blame pandemic and accountability law
The Hartford Courant – January 11, 2021
The number of traffic tickets issued for speeding, distracted driving and other violations plummeted last year, a drop that police attributed to both the coronavirus pandemic and the police accountability law.
Committee approves Justice McDonald for new term on state's highest court
The CT Post – January 11, 2021
The legislative Judiciary Committee on Monday confirmed Supreme Court Justice Andrew J. McDonald for a second eight-year term on the state’s highest court, despite a handful of negative Republican votes revealing lingering animosity from his failed nomination to become chief justice in 2018.
Governor Ned Lamont, state Representative Steve Stafstrom visit Goodwill of Western and Northern Connecticut's Bridgeport headquarters
Westport Hamlet Hub – October 29, 2020
Governor Ned Lamont and State Representative Steve Stafstrom today visited Goodwill of Western and Northern Connecticut’s Bridgeport campus to learn more about how COVID-19 has impacted the nonprofit’s programs and services, and how CARES Act funding has supported the organization during these challenging times.
Rep. Steve Stafstrom (opinion): Accountability law benefits police, public
The CT Post – October 14, 2020
As provisions of the police accountability bill that the Connecticut General Assembly passed last July take effect, and as we enter the final stretch of the election “silly season,” I again feel compelled to address misinformation being spread about the bill and the process that led to its passage.
Passing police reforms was hard. Making them work might be harder.
CT Mirror – July 31, 2020
Gov. Ned Lamont intends to sign a police accountability bill into law Friday, but the campaign to change police training and culture in Connecticut ultimately may turn on what comes next: How to implement, and possibly refine, a measure so bitterly fought by cops.
State Rep. Steve Stafstrom (opinion): What the police bill means for CT
The CT Post – July 29, 2020
This week, the state Senate followed the state House in passing HB 6004, An Act Concerning Police Accountability, a landmark bill on police reform which responds to the call for change that is sweeping our nation. There is a lot of misinformation circulating about both the contents of the bill and the process that led us to this so I wanted to try to set the record straight.
Bridgeport wins car tax reimbursement from the state
The Connecticut Post – April 11, 2018
Bridgeport is slated to receive $3.1 in supplemental car tax reimbursement money after the Bridgeport legislative delegation fought to secure the release of the funds from the state's Office of Policy and Management.
Legalizing recreational marijuana still a tough call for Connecticut
Fairfield County Business Journal – April 6, 2018
State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said there is public support for the legalization and regulation of marijuana, and it is not a partisan issue.
Bump stock ban bill moves to state House after vote
The Connecticut Post – April 3, 2018
State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said a legislative proposal that would ban bump stocks in Connecticut would ensure the safety of the state's residents and also honor the intent of the gun laws the legislature passes.
Lawmakers advance bills banning bump stocks, 'ghost guns'
The Connecticut Mirror – April 3, 2018
Connecticut lawmakers voted to move forward legislation that would ban bump stocks and untraceable firearms called "ghost guns."
Connecticut casino debate heats up
Yale Daily News – March 29, 2018
State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said if Connecticut is going to expand its casino gaming, the state needs to create a competitive bidding process.
Mayors of Bridgeport and New Haven object to state pay-outs for Hartford's debts
The Connecticut Post – March 23, 2018
State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said Bridgeport should discuss the benefits of entering into an agreement with the Municipal Accountability Review Board.
Legislation would create marijuana 'lounges,' and dispensaries across the state
The Hartford Courant – March 19, 2018
To stay competitive with surrounding states, state Rep. Steve Stafstrom it is vital to pass legislation that legalizes and regulations recreational marijuana for adult use during the 2018 legislative session.
Bridgeport senators, representatives speak in favor of casino
The Monroe Courier – March 15, 2018
The Bridgeport state legislative delegation spoke in favor of a bill that would permit an open, competitive process to expand casino gaming into Bridgeport during a public hearing on March 15.
Democratic lawmakers propose ban on bump stocks, 'ghost guns'
The Post Chronicle – March 1, 2018
Democratic members of the General Assembly's Judiciary Committee announced their intention to introduce legislation that would ban bump stocks and so-called "ghost guns." State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said passing this type of legislation would help ensure that the spirit and intent of the state's gun laws are being honored.
Lawmakers taking steps to fight gun violence
WTNH – February 5, 2018
To combat gun violence in Connecticut, lawmakers introduced two pieces of legislation that would ban bump stocks and "ghost" guns in the state.
Pols seek bump stock, 'ghost' gun ban
New Haven Independent – February 5, 2018
Lawmakers introduced a series of legislation aimed at banning bump stocks and "ghost" guns in Connecticut. State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said this legislation is intended to get illegal guns off of Connecticut's streets and to make sure that the spirit of state laws are being followed.
YMCA Alliance declares state Rep. Stafstrom a Legislative Champion
Bridgeport Daily Voice – November 30, 2017
Commending his commitment to the local community, the Connecticut Alliance of YMCAs has named state Rep. Steve Stafstrom as its 2017 Legislative Champion.
State Representatives speak to students
The Fairfield Mirror – November 29, 2017
State Reps. Steve Stafstrom and Cristin McCarthy Vahey spoke with Fairfield University students about the importance of becoming active in their communities.
City hopes third time is charm for thermal loop
The Connecticut Post – November 24, 2017
Lawmakers believe they have salvaged a major economic and environmental project for downtown Bridgeport, which would provide cheaper heat to neighborhood residents and large tenants such as Housatonic Community College, the University of Bridgeport, the Webster Bank Arena and People’s Bank.
Dash cams now a priority for Bridgeport police
WNPR – November, 17, 2017
Through legislation that passed during the 2017 legislative session, municipalities are able to tap into state funds to purchase body and dashboard cameras for its police departments. State Rep. Steve Stafstrom, a strong proponent of body and dashboard cameras, said the equipment helps increase police accountability and officer safety.
State’s prison population lowest in in more than two decades
The Connecticut Post – November 11, 2017
Connecticut’s prison population has decreased to 14,000 inmates – the lowest in 23 years. State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said this sharp decrease is the result of a series of initiatives that have led to the reduction in crime and decline in prison populations.
Bridgeport takes green energy lead with thermal loop
Fairfield County Business Journal – November 10, 2017
Through the construction of a thermal loop, Bridgeport will be able to use a network of underground pipes to distribute energy, produced by a fuel cell, to supply space heating and domestic hot water to the city’s downtown buildings. State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said this project will not only reduce the city’s carbon footprint, but it will also bring in $130 million in privately-funded economic development and generate $3 million in property tax revenue on an annual basis.
Library backers outmaneuver Bridgeport’s political machine
The Connecticut Post – November 10, 2017
Bridgeport voters backed a referendum requiring City Hall to set aside roughly an extra $2 million next year for libraries. Those extra dollars will allow libraries to maintain the status quo so they can continue to provide the same level of service, state Rep. Steve Stafstrom said.
Current conundrum over school funding could be a harbinger of tougher battles ahead
The Hartford Courant – September 10, 2017
As Connecticut continues to address its fiscal challenges, state Rep. Steve Stafstrom advocates for a new education funding formula that allocates more aid to the state’s underfunded schools.
Bridgeport lawmakers continue push for thermal heat loop
WSHU – August 2, 2017
Bridgeport lawmakers are continuing to push for a thermal heating loop in the city. Not only would this project provide cheaper energy and heating costs in the city’s downtown but it would help spur economic development, state Rep. Steve Stafstrom said.
State legislative session a success for Bridgeport
The Connecticut Post – June 15, 2017
During the 2017 legislative session, the Bridgeport delegation worked hard to pass bills that invest in the city’s entertainment venues, green infrastructure and restructure the city’s unfunded pension liabilities.
Connecticut bill that would help police buy body and dash cams moves to Senate
The New Haven Register – June 2, 2017
A bill that makes it easier for municipal police departments to access state funding for body and dashboard cameras has moved through the state House of Representatives for consideration by the Senate. This would ensure that police departments have the necessary policies and safeguards in place to protect our communities, state Rep. Steve Stafstrom said.
House finds unanimous support for increasing computer crime penalty
CTNewsJunkie – May 16, 2017
As computer extortion increases at a rapid rate in both the private and public sector, the state House of Representatives passed a bill that would increase penalties for the crime.
Bridgeport would get pension break
The Connecticut Post – May 9, 2017
Bridgeport taxpayers will save $70 million over the next 26 years, under legislation that will lower the city’s interest costs for $83 million in unfunded pension liabilities. State Rep. Steve Stafstrom said recently passed legislation will allow the city to restructure a portion of its unfunded pension liabilities, giving residents some of the financial relief they need.
State’s cities must be at the heart of an economic rebound
The Connecticut Mirror – April 4, 2017
For Connecticut to move forward and compete with the likes of New York and Massachusetts, we need to invest in our urban centers so they can be the economic drivers the state needs to grow its economy.
Probate court considers added protections to curb theft by court-appointed guardians
The Hartford Courant – March 13, 2017
During the 2017 legislative session, lawmakers proposed new reforms to protect the elderly and mentally ill from abuse. These new reforms include random state audits of conservator accounts and tougher ethical standards.
Police, lawmakers want gun carriers to show permit if asked
The Hartford Courant – March 7, 2017
State Rep. Steve Stafstrom advocated for legislation that would amend state law to require gun owners to show their pistol permit if they are stopped by police. Stafstrom said this bill is one way to increase public safety.
Interview with Connecticut state Rep. Steve Stafstrom
Meet the Leaders – January 4, 2017
During an interview with Meet the Leaders, state Rep. Steve Stafstrom said paying down Connecticut’s debt is his top priority for the 2017 legislative session.