Jonathan Steinberg

A variety of new state laws that were passed during the 2024 legislative session went into effect with the new year on January 1.

Winter and colder temperatures mean rising energy costs, but there are several programs available to residents struggling to afford their heating bills.

Effective January 1, 2025, the hourly minimum wage in the state will increase from $15.69 to $16.35.

A 2019 law (PA 19-4) passed by the legislature aligns Connecticut’s minimum wage to a percentage change in an economic indicator called the federal employment cost index. According to the Department of Labor the employment cost index rose 4.2% for the current fiscal year ending June 30, resulting in a 66-cent increase to the state’s minimum wage.

Access Health CT's (AHCT) Open Enrollment period for health insurance began this month and runs through January 15, 2025.

Connecticut residents can shop, compare, and enroll in health insurance plans or renew their coverage online, in-person or by phone. Dental insurance is also available through AHCT.

There is good news for low and moderate-income families in Connecticut looking to buy their first home as a popular homeowner assistance program is now accepting a new round of applicants.

In addition to selecting candidates for public office, voters are being asked to decide if absentee ballots should be expanded to all voters.

Allowing “no excuse” absentee ballot voting in the future is a state referendum question on this year’s ballot. Currently in Connecticut, voters must apply for an absentee ballot and provide a reason for needing one, such as illness or being out of town on Election Day.

All year round, but particularly this month, together let’s bring attention to and raise awareness about the tragedy caused by breast cancer and domestic violence.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time for reflection on trends in breast cancer research, prevention, and treatment.

On a beautiful fall morning just like today, tragedy struck 23 years ago as an orchestrated terrorist attack on our country took place.

It is one of the those days we all remember exactly where we were and what we were doing when the news of the attack broke. For those not old enough to remember or those not yet born, it is a day that will live in history books and lessons forever.