Rep. Tercyak presenting a citation to Edward Kozlowski.

"Today, some 10 million people call themselves Polish Americans, tens of thousands of them calling Connecticut home," House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) said. "Polish Americans enrich the lives of all of us, through enormous contributions to American life as leaders in business, music and the arts, media, politics, religion and every facet of American society. Today, we honor the people of Polonia, the American Polish community. We are grateful for their contributions to the life of our communities, and are a richer people because of their presence among us."

“I want to take a moment to recognize Stanley Krawiec’s work in organizing the first Polish Day. I also want to say how proud I am that my father, Tony Tercyak, took on the responsibility of hosting Polish Day after we lost Stan,” said Rep. Tercyak. “Polish Americans have contributed immeasurably to Connecticut and to the nation. And today we are taking time as a state to honor the Polish American community and to honor four individuals who have made a difference.”

Patricia Archie, Ursula Brodowicz, Edward Kozlowski and Hank Stratton (in absentia) were presented with state citations honoring their lasting impact on the community at a midday ceremony as part of the Polish Day celebration.

Joining Speaker Donovan and Rep. Tercyak at the ceremony were Governor Dannel P. Malloy, Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman, State Comptroller Kevin Lembo, and Consul Malgorzata Kozik from the Polish Consulate in New York.

“One out of every four women in college is sexually assaulted and too many of these assaults are not reported. This bill ensures that students receive information about what, besides rape, constitutes assault and hopefully will persuade more victims to get help,” Rep. Tercyak said.

The bill requires colleges to adopt policies on sexual assault and domestic violence, including information about a victim's rights to notify law enforcement, how to receive campus assistance in making the notification and how to obtain restraining orders.

It also requires colleges to outline disciplinary procedures, including clear language advising students that victims can request that disciplinary proceedings begin promptly, that they may be accompanied to proceedings by an advisor or support person of their choice, and that they may keep their identities confidential as permitted under state or federal law.

Rep. Tercyak pointed out that many of the provisions in the bill are already required under a federal law known as the Clery Act. The Clery Act requires colleges and universities to publish an annual report that discloses campus crime statistics and school policies related to crime and reporting. It also requires campuses to issue “timely warnings” when they become aware of a crime or series of crimes that could impact the college community.

According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Justice, students decline to report sexual assaults because they fear reprisal (40%), they do not want other people to find out (47%), they don’t believe the incident is serious enough to report (65%), or they don’t know how to report it (14%).

The bill goes next to the Senate.

"I'm proud to stand here with families and my legislative colleagues to help to promote the early diagnosis and treatment of autism. Over the past few years we've made major strides to improve health care for children who suffer from autism such as requiring insurance coverage for autism services, and I look forward to continuing that work," said Rep. Tercyak.

Autism Awareness Day is an annual event to draw attention to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and affected individuals and families. This is the 8th Autism Advocacy Day at the State Capitol.

Tercyak added, “When I first was elected, Sharon Beloin-Saavedra asked me to raise awareness by just saying the word, ‘autism,’ in education meetings at the Capitol—look how far we have come.”

Autism is characterized by impaired social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and unusual, repetitive, or severely limited activities and interests. ASDs include Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (usually referred to as PDD-NOS).

“Working families are especially hard hit by spiking gas prices. Since January, prices have risen 15%,” said Rep. Tercyak. “This bill caps the state tax and ensures that the savings are passed on to Connecticut consumers—not to the big oil companies.”

Rep.Tercyak explained that the legislation specifically prohibits oil wholesalers and distributers (those who pay the gross receipts tax) from passing on anything purporting to be based on the tax for the portion of any sales price over $3.00 per gallon.

“Any type of overcharging by the oil companies will now be considered a Connecticut Unfair Trade Practice Act (CUTPA) violation with hefty fines,” said Rep. Tercyak.

Large wholesalers in violation of profiteering statutes have much greater impact on consumers than individual retailers, so the legislation specifically grants the commissioner of the Department of Consumer authority to impose CUPTA fines of up to $10,000 upon large gasoline wholesalers and distributors who are in violation of profiteering laws.

The state’s petroleum profiteering law was also amended by today’s legislation to include an automatic trigger, based on extreme wholesale price increases, for price gouging protections to go into effect.

The bill, which is now headed to the governor for his signature, institutes similar profiteering protections in regards to home heating oil.

“This will prevent seniors and people with disabilities from losing their benefits next week,” said Tercyak, who led debate on the House floor. “A welcome increase in social security benefits threatened to make thousands of Connecticut residents ineligible for certain Medicare benefits, but now we have rectified that. With so many seniors struggling to make ends meet, this modification will be a real lifesaver and allow them to continue to receiving medical care. I urge my colleagues in the State Senate to approve this change as soon as possible.”

The bill, which now moves to the State Senate, raises the income limit for the Medicare Savings Program in order to accommodate an anticipated 3.6% Social Security income cost of living increase (COLA) which takes effect on March 1.

Tercyak said there was an income adjustment for Medicare Savings Program enrollees scheduled for October 1, but the COLA taking effect on March 1 would have put some beneficiaries over the program’s income limits, causing them to lose some or all of their coverage.

The Medicare Savings Program helps seniors and people with disabilities pay for their Medicare co-pays and deductibles.

When municipal payments for charter school students are factored into the new aid formula, New Britain has the fourth-largest proposed funding increase in the state, just behind Waterbury, Hartford and Bridgeport.

Gov. Malloy proposed increasing New Britain’s 2012 Education Cost Sharing (ECS) grant from $73.93 million to $76.58 million – another $245 per-pupil – as part of his state budget address delivered yesterday on the opening day of the 2012 legislative session.

New Britain legislators said the proposed ECS increase will be put to good use.

“I strongly endorse the governor’s position that every child in Connecticut deserves access to a quality public education, no matter where they live. That has not always been the case in some of Connecticut’s poorer cities and towns,” Sen. Gerratana said. “It is folly to think that money doesn’t play a key role in equalizing some of that achievement gap. So I welcome the governor’s proposed additional ECS funding, and I welcome his concurrent demand that these funds be accounted for as part of an overall educational reform process.”

“The Governor and the New Britain state delegation made a commitment to better fund education, especially in underperforming urban districts like New Britain,” state Rep. Rick Lopes said. “Increasing the education performance in New Britain is the most important thing we can do as legislators. It decreases our local tax burden while improving the abilities and opportunities of our students.”

“This is great news for New Britain’s children. Our city will see almost a four-percent increase in school funding under this proposal and that’s real money,” said state Rep. Peter Tercyak. “Although our schools could use more help, this is an important step in the right direction. I thank Governor Malloy for his strong support for public education.”

“While I am pleased to see the state stepping in and doing its part to support and promote education, we still have a lot of work to do to bring more state resources to New Britain’s education system,” state Rep. Robert Sanchez said. “I am committed to keep working until we find a balance that will help us achieve our educational goals. Municipalities struggle with the budgetary impact of funding education and the influence it has on mill rates imposed on property owners. This proposal eases some of that burden while putting in place beneficial educational reforms that we welcome with open arms.”

“The governor’s commitment to New Britain is impressive,” said state Rep. Betty Boukus. “This is an investment in our students’ futures that will pay dividends.”

Governor Malloy announced his proposed ECS funding changes on Wednesday as part of his broader proposals to reform education in Connecticut from early childhood through college.

He proposed spending an additional $50 million in ECS funding for public schools, nearly $40 million of which will go to newly-established ‘Alliance Districts’ made up of the state’s 30 lowest-performing school districts – conditioned upon the districts’ implementation of key education reform strategies. An additional $4.5 million in competitive funding will be offered to all districts – with a preference for the 30 Alliance districts – to enable even more ambitious innovations and deeper reforms.

A total of 130 towns will receive more ECS funding than they did in 2011-2012; no town will see funding drop from 2011-2012 levels.

“It is critical that we get to the schools that are really struggling—and do it quickly,” Gov. Malloy said Wednesday. “We can get good teachers into classrooms, and hire the best superintendents and administrators, but we must address the overarching resources issue and fund the programs that will directly reach the kids who are at a disadvantage because their school is underperforming. We have held towns harmless, no one is losing ECS funding—which sends a clear signal to our children that we will make the investment and deliver on our promise of high-quality education for every student in Connecticut.”

State Rep. Peter Tercyak, on left, joined AT&T's Kinson Perry in presenting New Britain's Community Mental Health Affiliates President Raymond J. Gorman with a check from the AT&T Foundation to purchase 75 wireless notebook computers to improve client services.

“CMHA provides critical care to the New Britain community and these new laptops will make it easier for them to continue providing children and families with the vital mental health and support services they need,” said Rep. Tercyak. “CMHA really needs all the support it can get in this difficult economy when more people than ever need their help. AT&T deserves special recognition and thanks for continuing their philanthropy and community investment in this tough economy.”

“AT&T was extremely pleased that Representative Tercyak recommended CMHA. He understands his community well and we rely on him to indicate where areas of need exist. The arena of telemedicine is ripe for applications such as this one,” said Kinson Perry, Area Manager for AT&T External and Legislative Affairs.

The wireless notebooks will allow CMHA's clinicians to provide mental health services in the field to clients. Severely mentally ill clients often have barriers to accessing care, such as lack of transportation or difficulty functioning in society. This technology will enable clinicians to provide services in patients’ apartments or shelters, improve clinical efficiency and productivity with immediate remote access to charts and medical records. It will also decrease clerical time, reduce errors, and improve billing accuracy and timeliness in serving this particularly at-risk population.

“Through Representative Tercyak's support and the AT&T Foundation's generosity, CMHA is bringing telemedicine technology to community behavioral healthcare. With these new notebooks, decisions will be made in the field with greater accuracy and efficiency, thereby providing better care to our clients,” said CMHA President and CEO Raymond J. Gorman.

Tercyak said that these laptops will make it easier for CMHA to be compliant with the new Federal Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) electronic medical records guidelines.

Founded in 1975, New Britain based CMHA is a community-oriented not-for-profit providing mental health care and addiction services for children and adults. Dedicated to improving the quality of life for Connecticut’s residents, CMHA has 18 locations in northwest and central Connecticut, including 10 in New Britain.

State Rep. Peter Tercyak, on left, joined AT&T's Kinson Perry in presenting New Britain's Community Mental Health Affiliates President Raymond J. Gorman with a check from the AT&T Foundation to purchase 75 wireless notebook computers to improve client services.

“CMHA provides critical care to the New Britain community and these new laptops will make it easier for them to continue providing children and families with the vital mental health and support services they need,” said Rep. Tercyak. “CMHA really needs all the support it can get in this difficult economy when more people than ever need their help. AT&T deserves special recognition and thanks for continuing their philanthropy and community investment in this tough economy.”

“AT&T was extremely pleased that Representative Tercyak recommended CMHA. He understands his community well and we rely on him to indicate where areas of need exist. The arena of telemedicine is ripe for applications such as this one,” said Kinson Perry, Area Manager for AT&T External and Legislative Affairs.

The wireless notebooks will allow CMHA's clinicians to provide mental health services in the field to clients. Severely mentally ill clients often have barriers to accessing care, such as lack of transportation or difficulty functioning in society. This technology will enable clinicians to provide services in patients’ apartments or shelters, improve clinical efficiency and productivity with immediate remote access to charts and medical records. It will also decrease clerical time, reduce errors, and improve billing accuracy and timeliness in serving this particularly at-risk population.

“Through Representative Tercyak's support and the AT&T Foundation's generosity, CMHA is bringing telemedicine technology to community behavioral healthcare. With these new notebooks, decisions will be made in the field with greater accuracy and efficiency, thereby providing better care to our clients,” said CMHA President and CEO Raymond J. Gorman.

Tercyak said that these laptops will make it easier for CMHA to be compliant with the new Federal Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) electronic medical records guidelines.

Founded in 1975, New Britain based CMHA is a community-oriented not-for-profit providing mental health care and addiction services for children and adults. Dedicated to improving the quality of life for Connecticut’s residents, CMHA has 18 locations in northwest and central Connecticut, including 10 in New Britain.

When municipal payments for charter school students are factored into the new aid formula, New Britain has the fourth-largest proposed funding increase in the state, just behind Waterbury, Hartford and Bridgeport.

Gov. Malloy proposed increasing New Britain’s 2012 Education Cost Sharing (ECS) grant from $73.93 million to $76.58 million – another $245 per-pupil – as part of his state budget address delivered yesterday on the opening day of the 2012 legislative session.

New Britain legislators said the proposed ECS increase will be put to good use.

“I strongly endorse the governor’s position that every child in Connecticut deserves access to a quality public education, no matter where they live. That has not always been the case in some of Connecticut’s poorer cities and towns,” Sen. Gerratana said. “It is folly to think that money doesn’t play a key role in equalizing some of that achievement gap. So I welcome the governor’s proposed additional ECS funding, and I welcome his concurrent demand that these funds be accounted for as part of an overall educational reform process.”

“The Governor and the New Britain state delegation made a commitment to better fund education, especially in underperforming urban districts like New Britain,” state Rep. Rick Lopes said. “Increasing the education performance in New Britain is the most important thing we can do as legislators. It decreases our local tax burden while improving the abilities and opportunities of our students.”

“This is great news for New Britain’s children. Our city will see almost a four-percent increase in school funding under this proposal and that’s real money,” said state Rep. Peter Tercyak. “Although our schools could use more help, this is an important step in the right direction. I thank Governor Malloy for his strong support for public education.”

“While I am pleased to see the state stepping in and doing its part to support and promote education, we still have a lot of work to do to bring more state resources to New Britain’s education system,” state Rep. Robert Sanchez said. “I am committed to keep working until we find a balance that will help us achieve our educational goals. Municipalities struggle with the budgetary impact of funding education and the influence it has on mill rates imposed on property owners. This proposal eases some of that burden while putting in place beneficial educational reforms that we welcome with open arms.”

“The governor’s commitment to New Britain is impressive,” said state Rep. Betty Boukus. “This is an investment in our students’ futures that will pay dividends.”

Governor Malloy announced his proposed ECS funding changes on Wednesday as part of his broader proposals to reform education in Connecticut from early childhood through college.

He proposed spending an additional $50 million in ECS funding for public schools, nearly $40 million of which will go to newly-established ‘Alliance Districts’ made up of the state’s 30 lowest-performing school districts – conditioned upon the districts’ implementation of key education reform strategies. An additional $4.5 million in competitive funding will be offered to all districts – with a preference for the 30 Alliance districts – to enable even more ambitious innovations and deeper reforms.

A total of 130 towns will receive more ECS funding than they did in 2011-2012; no town will see funding drop from 2011-2012 levels.

“It is critical that we get to the schools that are really struggling—and do it quickly,” Gov. Malloy said Wednesday. “We can get good teachers into classrooms, and hire the best superintendents and administrators, but we must address the overarching resources issue and fund the programs that will directly reach the kids who are at a disadvantage because their school is underperforming. We have held towns harmless, no one is losing ECS funding—which sends a clear signal to our children that we will make the investment and deliver on our promise of high-quality education for every student in Connecticut.”

In conjunction with the Working Group of State Legislators for Health Reform, hundreds of lawmakers from across the nation joined forces to announce and demonstrate their support of the Amicus Brief. The legislators’ brief argues that the Constitution gives broad power to the federal government to act in cases where a national solution is necessary. The ACA capitalizes on state innovations by setting a minimum coverage floor and giving states considerable policy flexibility.

“I’m honored to stand here supporting the Affordable Care Act which protects the rights of sick children by preventing the big insurance companies from denying children with pre-existing conditions health insurance, dropping insurance coverage for people when they get really sick, and capping the amount of health insurance coverage any one person may use in a lifetime,” said Rep. Tercyak.

The ACA has already provided benefits to children with pre-existing conditions, who can no longer be denied health insurance; individuals who cannot be kicked off their policies when they get sick; and young adults who can stay on their parents’ policies until age 26. More residents will save money on their health care when the law is fully implemented in 2014.

“I am proud that our state is moving forward to implement the Affordable Care Act. It is making a difference in the lives of our constituents already: thousands have benefitted from the protections against insurance company abuses, lower out of pocket costs for seniors and tax credits for small employers,” Speaker Donovan said. “Health care is a national problem that no state has been able to solve alone—it requires a federal partner and a national solution. Our implementation efforts should not be derailed by baseless constitutional challenges.”

The show of support for the Affordable Care Act in Connecticut was part of a larger demonstration of support for the law across the nation this week, as over 500 state legislators representing all 50 states signed on to the Amicus Brief defending the law. The brief will be filed this Friday and was prepared in conjunction with the Working Group of State Legislators for Health Reform (a national group of state legislators working to advance health reform and implement the Affordable Care Act), Progressive States Network, and the Constitutional Accountability Center.

The full text of the Amicus Brief will be available at: www.progressivestates.org/ACAamicus

The Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain is slated to receive $5 million for planning, design, land acquisition, development and construction of a cancer treatment center. The funding will also go toward renovations and upgrades of its oncology unit, and a Permanent Regional Phase One Clinical Trials Unit.

“I’m proud and thankful our leadership is providing funds for the cancer center in New Britain,” said State Representative Tim O’Brien (D-New Britain, Newington). “It’s critical to advance high tech and healthcare job growth into New Britain’s economic future.”

These funds were requested to provide a grant-in-aid to The Hospital of Central Connecticut as part of the UConn Health Network and Bioscience Initiative bill passed by the Legislature.

“This investment in a new cancer treatment center right here in New Britain couldn't come at a better time," said state Senator Terry Gerratana (D-New Britain), who is Senate Chair of the Public Health Committee. "Not only does this mean jobs and development, it is the culmination of a promise we made only a few months ago to begin re-making the health sciences sector in Connecticut. The people at Jackson Laboratories have recognized that, too, and it's one of the reasons why we have been able to move forward so quickly and so decisively on a new future for Connecticut's economy."

“With this bonding money, New Britain will improve our capacity for cancer treatment and enhance the hospital's well deserved reputation for excellence,” said State Representative Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain). “It's the right time to build.  Lower construction costs and needed jobs.”

Rep. Betty Boukus (D-Plainville, New Britain, Bristol) said, “I want to thank Governor Malloy for placing on the Bond Commission agenda funding for the cancer center at the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain. For many patients, the ability to receive quality care close to home is so important.”

The Hospital of Central Connecticut has an accreditation as a Teaching Hospital Cancer Center by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and an accreditation with Commendation from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.

An additional item on the bonding agenda for New Britain is part of an overall $1.5 million upgrade to judicial buildings across the state. $225,000 will modify the New Britain courthouse lobby heating system.

“These funds are welcome news to New Britain as work on the new and upgraded hospital units and improved courthouse lobby heating system will bring much needed jobs,” Rep. Robert Sanchez (D-New Britain) said. “This support for the infusion of activity in our local economy is very encouraging.”

The State Bond Commission is scheduled to meet at 10:45 a.m. Friday, October 28th in room 1-E of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

New Britain Reps. Tim O'Brien & Peter Tercyak at the Human Solidarity, Polish Solidarnosc Exhibit at the state capitol in Hartford.

“It was an exciting time for the Polish people and the Polish American community who worked with the American labor movement to support Solidarity as they struggled for freedom,” said Rep. Tercyak. “I’m honored to host this exhibit that pays tribute to those brave men and women who took Pope John Paul II’s words to heart to ‘be not afraid’ and stood up to totalitarianism.”

"The Polish Solidarity movement was an inspiration to people everywhere working for democracy and human dignity," said Rep. O'Brien. "This display is a fitting tribute to the people of Poland who sacrificed so much for a better future. It was an honor to sponsor it."

"These inspired individuals motivated a generation," said Rep. O'Brien. "Their accomplishments continue to show what is achievable when people stand together for a great cause."

“Human Solidarity, Polish Solidarnosc”, an exhibit organized by the Polish Studies Program at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain was installed at the capitol.

The exhibit, which was created in 2010 to mark the thirtieth anniversary of the Polish Solidarity movement, was a joint Polish and American project carried out under the auspices of the Consulate of the Polish Republic in New York. It portrays the history of Solidarnosc through maps, photos, press clippings and a narrative that also makes connections with the history of the American labor movement.

Poslowie do Stanowej Izby Reprezentantow, Peter Tercyak I Tim O’Brien oddaja hold Niezaleznemu Samorzadnemu Zwiazkowi Zawodowemu Solidarnosc.

Poslowie Peter Tercyak I Tim O’Brien reprezentujacy New Britain w Stanowej Izbie Reprezentantow przy wspolpracy Katedry Studiow Polskich i Konsulatu RP w Nowym Jorku byli gospodarzami wystawy o histori zwiazku zawodowego Solidarnosc na Stanowym Kapitolu w Hartford.

“To byl niezwykle wazny okres czasu dla Polakow w kraju jak rowniez dla Polsko-Amerykanskiej spolecznosci ktora razem z Amerykanskim ruchem zwiazkowym popierala Solidarnosc w jej walce o wolnosc’ powiedzial posel Tercyak. “ Jestem dumny z tego iz mialem zaszczyt byc gospodarzem tej wystawy ktora oddaje hold tym niezwykle odwaznym ludziom, ktorzy gleboko wzieli sobie do serca slowa Papieza Jana Pawla II aby “nie lekac sie” i sprzeciwic sie totalitarnemu systemowi rzadzenia.

“Polska Solidarnosc byla inspiracja dla wielu ludzi na calym swiecie w walce o demokracje i godnosc ludzka,” powiedzial O’Brien. Ta wystawa jest swietnym holdem dla Polakow ktorzy tak duzo poswiecili dla lepszej przyszlosci. To byl honor byc wspolgospodarzem tej wystawy.”

“Te niezwykle osoby zmotywowaly cale pokolenie,” powiedzial O’Brien. “ Ich sukcesy pokazuja nam co jest do osiagniecia kiedy ludzie walcza razem o wspolny, wspanialy cel.’

“Ludzka Solidarnosc, Polska Solidarnosc”, wystawa zorganizowana przez Katedre Studiow Polskich w Central Connecticut State University miala miejsce pod koniec wrzesnia na Stanowym Kapitolu.

Wystawa, wykonana w 2010 roku uswietnia 30-a rocznice powstania NSZZ Solidarnosc i jest wspolnym projektem Polsko-Amerykanskim pod auspicjami Konsulatu Generalnego RP w Nowym Jorku. Wystawa pokazuje historie Solidarnosci przez historyczne fotografie, mapy, wycinki z gazet oraz poprzez opisy wydarzen ktore lacza Polska Solidarnosc z Amerykanskim ruchem robotniczym.

The Academy improvements consist of: re-grading, resurfacing and drainage improvements to the parking lot; a canopy for the pick up/drop off area; and various heating, ventilation and air conditioning and wiring improvements.

The project is expected to create or retain approximately five construction- related jobs.

 “We’re not just investing in building improvements, we are investing in improving the children who attend the Ben Franklin Academy and who will go on to become high school and college graduates and our next-generation workforce,” said state Sen. Terry Gerratana (D-New Britain), who is Co-Chairman of both the Children’s and the Public Health Committees. “Better facilities make for a better learning environment and better outcomes. It’s the most basic of investments we can make.”

 “The Human Resources Agency is vital to the New Britain community and the services provided by HRA lift the quality of life for our city’s residents and our community as a whole,” state Rep. Tim O’Brien (D-New Britain, Newington) said. “These funds will provide for overdue improvements to HRA’s facilities and save this agency operating money that can be used to provide these much-needed services.”

 “Early childhood education is a proven success—it helps children succeed both in and out of the classroom,” said state Rep. Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), who is House Chair of the Human Services Committee. “I am proud to support this funding and will continue working to make sure these programs are properly funded.”

 “Our economy depends on quality, affordable childcare,” state Rep. Betty Boukus (D- Plainville) said. “Parents can’t make it to work if they don’t have a place like the Ben Franklin Early Childcare Learning Academy providing these valuable services.”

The mission of the Human Resources Agency of New Britain, Inc. (HRA) is to improve the quality of life by helping people achieve economic and social potential; responding to the causes and conditions of poverty; and building stronger individuals, families and communities in the greater New Britain area.

Operating since 1964, The HRA is a nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors comprised of equal representation from the public sector (elected officials), the private sector (business and community organizations) and the neighborhoods (residents served by programs).

For more information, please visit: http://www.hranbct.org.

“This is a very significant neighborhood revitalization initiative that will improve quality of life in our city by turning dilapidated former public housing into an attractive neighborhood. And the construction work rehabilitating this neighborhood will create many, much-needed jobs in our community,” said Rep. O’Brien. “Once again, Gov. Malloy has shown strong leadership in job-creation and community investment by taking a project that languished under former administrations and getting it done.”

“Increasing the supply of affordable and accessible housing for young people and working families is a key component of our long-term economic plans and will help keep Connecticut competitive and encourage job creation here," Governor Malloy said. "This is an excellent example of the ways in which we can revitalize our communities and encourage job growth and development by making smart, strategic investments.”

Both housing developments are owned by the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) and the Authority has made the decision to direct funding to remake the dilapidated housing. Addressing the blighted conditions at the projects, that fell into disrepair under the city Housing Authority, has been a priority for Rep. O’Brien and former State Senator, now Commissioner of Administrative Services Donald DeFronzo and the steadfast advocacy and community organizing of the Corbin-Pinnacle Resident Council.

"Our neighbors who live at Corbin and Pinnacle Heights have been waiting a long time for this investment," said Senator Gerratana. "We are excited and appreciative to have the Governor support a project that will not only improve the quality of life for residents, but also create high-quality construction jobs in New Britain. As Connecticut continues its economic recovery, we must be prudent in deciding which projects to make investments. There's no question this is a win-win for local families and the economy."

The public housing complexes built in the late 1940's and early 1950's under the State Moderate Rental Housing Program, were prioritized in Connecticut Statute and have been declared an "exceptional priority" by the CHFA.

"Good Quality, public housing is key to New Britain's long term success," said State Representative Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain). "This funding will not only provide homes to hundreds of New Britain families, but it will also create jobs—hundreds of good paying construction jobs right away. I'm confident that the many electricians, bricklayers, plumbers and construction workers on this jobsite will spend money at our local restaurants and businesses here in New Britain."

"People are struggling to keep their homes and families together in the turmoil of the current economy," Rep. Sanchez said. "I am pleased to see much needed funding allocated for this housing project at this critical time. It will surely strengthen the stability of our communities and help to keep our families together."

Simon Konovar Company and The Richman Group were chosen by CHFA to perform the $80 million project, which will be done at one time rather than in phases. It is part of sweeping changes that include the total demolition of the Pinnacle Heights project, which the city is planning to use for economic development. When the remade housing is completed, the old public housing will be converted to 301 rental homes. Existing residents will be eligible to return to their improved homes. Groundbreaking is planned for early fall.

Moving forward, the project needs:

• Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner approval
• Tax abatement agreements from the City of New Britain
  

“In addition to the huge number of construction workers this project will put on the job,” said State Representative Tim O’Brien (D-24), “It is critical that this important rapid transit line will connect New Britain to our region and our regional economy. This will serve as the core of a good strong plan to build New Britain’s economy and create good-paying jobs for the future.”

"We are in dire need of a good transit line from New Britain to Hartford and it's my belief that this busway will serve our two cities for many years. The busway will create jobs (some temporary, others permanently) and will definitely free up some congestion on I-84. This will also help in economic growth for our two cities and the state in general," said State Representative Bobby Sanchez (D-25).

"Rapid bus systems have proven successful in other places. We can do it too,” said State Representative Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain). “This will put regular middle class people to work right away as the economy continues to recover.

Rep. O’Brien added, “Having a modern rapid transit system through New Britain gives businesses a strong reason to locate and create jobs in our city. It is part of making our whole state economically efficient and competitive. I am very glad that New Britain is being put at the center of the modern economy instead of being cut out of it, like we have been.”

The legislators pointed out that some politicians from other towns are opposing these forward-thinking plans for cheap political gain, adding that our state is presently suffering from following a plan not to invest in our transportation infrastructure resulting in one of the lowest job-creation rates in the nation.

Maggie Adair, the Executive Director of the CT Early Childhood Alliance, with Rep. Peter Tercyak who was named a "Children's Champion" during a recent ceremony at the State Capitol.

The organization selected Tercyak for this recognition because of his support of legislation during the 2011 session of the General Assembly aimed at improving the educational, health and emotional well-being of young children in Connecticut.

“Head Start and early childhood development programs lay a strong foundation for future success both in and out of the classroom. Making sure that the state supports these types of programs has been a priority for me and I will to continue fighting to make sure children’s programs remain a priority at the legislature,” said Tercyak.

"The CT Early Childhood Alliance is honoring Representative Peter Tercyak for his strong commitment to making children’s issues, including early learning, health, safety and economic security, a priority here at the Capitol and within his home district," said Maggie Adair, CT Early Childhood Alliance Executive Director. "We, along with the children and families in Connecticut who benefit from their actions, thank him for that commitment."

The Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance is a group of organizations and individuals committed to improving developmental outcomes in the areas of learning, health, safety and economic security for children ages birth to eight. Member organizations provide care and education for nearly 20,000 children. The Alliance’s goal is for all children born in Connecticut to enter kindergarten healthy, eager to learn, and ready for school success.

 “DiLoreto expansion is an exciting project, enhancing the quality of one of our great local schools,” said Rep. O’Brien.  “The DiLoreto community has worked hard on this project for many years, and this funding will bring those dreams to fruition. It’s my hope that the city of New Britain will begin the construction work this summer.”

The expansion and renovation project will enhance the capability of the DiLoreto Magnet School - which is built around a vibrant dual language theme - to serve students throughout New Britain, from grades pre-K to 8.

“I’m pleased the DiLoreto project made it through the process,” said Rep. Boukus, Chairwoman of the Bonding Commission. “This is a win-win for New Britain and for the DiLoreto community.”

"DiLoreto is one of the most popular and oversubscribed magnet schools in New Britain," Sen. Gerratana said. "This expansion is necessary and it will certainly help accommodate the demand for the dual language curriculum there. This is very exciting and long overdue."

“This is an outstanding project that will help the New Britain school district enhance the education quality at DiLoreto Magnet School. I’m pleased that funding is now available and that the School District can start construction soon,” said Rep Sanchez.

“The Board of Education has been working with the City and State for the past two years to make the DiLoreto expansion project a reality,” said Sharon Beloin-Saavedra, President of the New Britain Board of Education. “I would like to thank everyone who supported this project and understood the importance of it. Having a specialty program pre-K-8 Dual Language School is a high priority of the Board's and the facility needed to meet the needs of the students.  This school will prepare students for the global market place.”

The funding is part of a school construction package passed by the Connecticut General Assembly this month.

“Veterans and their families have sacrificed so much defending our democracy. This is just a small way to honor them and make things a little easier for their families,” said Tercyak.

The legislation (SB 1069) allows a deceased veteran's spouse, child, or parent to request a copy of a veteran’s death certificate at ‘no cost’. The current $20 fee would be waived for one certified copy of a veteran's death certificate either from the municipality where the death occurred or from the Department of Public Health's State Office of Vital Records.

The bill overwhelmingly passed the house on a bipartisan basis 144-1 and was previously approved by the senate. It awaits the governor’s signature.

“It is important to stand up for working families,” said State Representative Tim O’Brien (D-New Britain, Newington). “We have sent a message that Connecticut values its workers and people won’t lose their jobs because of sick family members or if they become ill. I’m sure I’m not alone in my desire not to be exposed to a sick worker at a restaurant because he or she had no choice but to come to work.”

“I have worked in the Human Services field for over 30 years and have heard from many clients that lost their jobs due to illness or due to a family member’s illness because they did not have sick days,” said State Representative Robert Sanchez (D-New Britain). “This legislation is the right thing to do for many employees in our state.”

“This is not simply a good thing for Connecticut’s workers—it is good for the health of everyone in the state,” said State Representative Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), House Chair of the Human Services Committee. “People will no longer have to choose between having their paycheck cut or going to work sick. By giving folks the basic right to stay home when they are sick, we are preventing disease from spreading to their co-workers or the public.”

The earliest service workers can begin accruing sick leave is January 1, 2012. The workers must have worked for the employer for at least 680 hours and worked an average of at least 10 hours a week for the employer in the most recent completed calendar quarter.

“It’s an historic moment,” House Speaker Christopher Donovan (D-Meriden) said. “This is the right thing to do. People who work get sick and they deserve to be protected.”

The bill now heads to Governor Malloy who has promised to sign the bill into law.

Suppose there was a way to provide more children with better health care and save taxpayer money at the same time-wouldn't it make sense for the state to embrace such an option?

Of course it would. That's why for years many state lawmakers have been pushing Connecticut's Department of Social Services to use a Primary Care Case Management program for children in the HUSKY program.

PCCMs are simply a way of providing health care that is centered on the patient and puts doctors in charge of medical decisions. This model improves health care outcomes and reduces costs by having a primary care doctor coordinate care with specialists, hospitals, and pharmacists to reduce duplication, avoid errors and ensure patients follow through with their treatment plans. Having someone to manage care is proven to keep patients healthy and out of expensive emergency rooms.

Traditionally families in HUSKY, Connecticut's health insurance program for children and teenagers up to age 19, choose a plan managed by one of three insurance companies. This means that in most cases insurers, not doctors, are in charge of patients' medical care and decisions.

We at the legislature in 2007 created a trial program to allow some HUSKY families to opt for a PCCM plan that would allow the state to pay primary care providers directly for their services--costing taxpayers significantly less than the three plans run by private insurers.

Unfortunately, former Governor M. Jodi Rell resisted the PCCM option despite the fact that similar programs are functioning in a majority of states. DSS staff erected a variety of high barriers to ensure that very few doctors and HUSKY families participate in the program.

That's why I was overjoyed last month when Governor Dannel P. Malloy broke with Rell's failed policies and announced the entire HUSKY program for about 400,000 Connecticut residents would be moved to a care management model.

Under Malloy's plan the state will pay directly for all HUSKY health care services beginning in 2012, instead of leaving this to privately run insurance companies with high overhead and a direct financial interest in denying needed treatment.

It's cheaper and kids will be healthier-sound good? Although it probably sounds good to you and most folks, there are a still a few key administrators at DSS who don't think it is such a good idea. These bureaucrats seem bent on undermining quality healthcare that would save taxpayers' money.

Over a month after Governor Malloy's announcement, not one of the barriers preventing HUSKY families from using the PCCM model has been removed. For example, enrollees who do not choose a plan are being assigned to one of the three private insurers only to be moved again to a new plan in less than a year.

The governor's budget chief has unequivocally endorsed PCCM saying it needs to be ramped up for 2012, but there are many other barriers that DSS staff has still not removed, like prohibiting doctors from initiating conversations with their own patients about the PCCM option.

At a March 11 public meeting, a DSS official was asked to explain why it had taken no action to expand the PCCM pilot in light of the Malloy Administration's announcement. In response, he boldly declared: "PCCM does not meet my standards."

DSS has a new Commissioner, Roderick L. Bremby, and I am hopeful that Commissioner Bremby will make sure the old attitudes of DSS bureaucrats do not prevent more children from receiving quality better health care and saving taxpayer's money.

Led by Public Health Committee House Chair, State Rep. Betsy Ritter (D-Waterford/Montville), Insurance House Chair, Rep. Robert Megna (D-New Haven) and Rep. Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), Human Services House Chair, testimony was heard, including from Speaker of the House Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) on sweeping health insurance reform measures on the legislative agenda this session.

“With major changes on the horizon in the way we think about and provide healthcare, innovative legislation that provides for preventative care, lowering costs and increasing efficiencies should be top priorities this session,” Public Health Chair Ritter said. “I am pleased that Connecticut has taken the lead in this effort, and I am eager to play a major role in support of legislation that will help us move our state in the right direction.”

“This is an exciting time in the history of healthcare for the people of Connecticut,” said Rep. Megna, who is the House chair of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee. “Not only are we evolving into a healthcare system that provides access and affordability for tens of thousands of Connecticut residents, but we are also giving financial relief to the taxpayer and small businesses with the passage of these bills.”

“Skyrocketing insurance rates are crippling Connecticut’s small businesses and wreaking havoc with municipal budgets throughout the state,” said State Rep. Tercyak, House Chair of the Human Services Committee. “Bulk purchasing of health insurance is the remedy—it will bring lower rates and better health care.”

“Today is an important day as we move to advance consumer based health care reforms in our state that will provide real choices and affordable opportunities for individuals, small businesses and the nonprofit sector,” Speaker Donovan stated. “If the financial challenges of the last few years have taught us anything, it is that healthcare is an economic issue for municipalities and for businesses large and small.”

The following bills were included on the agenda:

• HB 6308 (Raised) - An Act Establishing The Connecticut Healthcare Partnership.
• HB 6305 (Raised) - An Act Concerning Implementation Of The Sustinet Plan.
• HB 6323 (Raised) - An Act Making Conforming Changes To The Insurance Statutes Pursuant To The Federal Patient Protection And Affordable Care Act, And Establishing A State Health Partnership Program.
• SB 921 (Raised) - An Act Establishing A State Health Insurance Exchange.
• HB 6322 (Raised) - An Act Concerning State Prescription Drug Purchasing.

As House Chair of the Human Services Committee, Terycak will oversee all legislation relating the Department of Social Services (DSS)—the state’s largest agency accounting for around 25% of the state’s budget and the Department of Children and Families (DCF), including institutions under their jurisdiction.

“The economic turmoil of the past few years has caused a steady increase in demand for safety net programs at the same time the state revenue has fallen. Although we must push for increased efficiencies in all state agencies, we cannot balance the budget on the backs of Connecticut’s working families and seniors,” said Tercyak. “I’m honored that Speaker Donovan has chosen me to lead such an important committee. I am committed to maintaining critical services that state residents need in these challenging times.”

The Human Services Committee will hold its first meeting of the year on Tuesday, January 11th at 3:00 p.m. in Room 1E of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

Tercyak, a Democrat, was first elected to represent New Britain’s 26th Assembly District in a special election in 2003.

He also serves on the legislature’s Energy & Technology Committee and Public Health Committee.

One million dollars is on the agenda for the New Britain Boys & Girls Club for renovations. One of the oldest Boys Clubs in the country, the New Britain chapter serves more than 2,701 children in the city and is in need of a new roof, a new heating and ventilation system and a new safe bus turnaround.

The YWCA of New Britain is slated to receive $500,000 to go toward major renovation projects slated for its downtown location. The project is expected to invest approximately $10 million into the city of New Britain and to create significant 12-to-18 month jobs while allowing the YWCA to expand programs and services.

Additionally, $979,968 is slated for approval to repair three bridges over Willow Brook in New Britain, to be issued through the state’s Local Bridge Program, and to receive another installment of Town Aid Road funding totaling $382,169, which can be used for local road improvement projects.

“These organizations play significant roles in our community,” said Senator Donald DeFronzo (D-6). “They impact the lives of children and vulnerable families in and around New Britain. It’s critically important that we use our limited bonding resources in areas where they have the greatest positive impact. Each of these projects will create jobs now and in the future, while addressing the need for youth services and pre-school education well as local capital improvement. These are important investments in New Britain today and important investments in our future. I want to thank Governor Rell for including these items on her last bond agenda.”

“I’m glad to see these important projects on the Bond Commission agenda,” said Representative Peter Tercyak (D-26), “and I hope everybody whose happy about these worthy projects we’ve supported remembers this the next time someone tries to get them to complain about the state’s level of bonding.”

“In addition to supporting the important mission of these community organizations, this construction funding will create jobs and help our economy,” said Representative Tim O’Brien (D-24). “Through their missions, the Boys & Girls Club and the YWCA help make New Britain a stronger community, especially for children and families. I was proud to advocate for this funding.”

“I'm happy that our delegation was able to help these worthy organizations that serve the people of New Britain,” Representative John Geragosian (D-25) said. “They all play an important role in helping New Britain’s families”

The State Bond Commission will meet on Friday, December 10, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. in Room 1E of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

University of Connecticut President Michael Hogan issued a statement Wednesday applauding legislation to support construction of a new patient bed tower at the UConn Health Center and renovation of current facilities at the John Dempsey Hospital.

"This is a historic moment in the life of our Health Center and the University of Connecticut," Hogan said.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell said the vote "represents a critical leap forward not just for a state-of-the-art John Dempsey Hospital in Farmington, but for a health network with incredible reach throughout Connecticut and thousands of new jobs that will be associated with the network and the hospital."

U.S. Sen. Chris Dodd said the vote by the state senate "brings us one step closer toward helping John Dempsey Hospital provide a new level of patient care and making Connecticut a national leader among health care providers. We still have a lot of work ahead of us, but I plan to work closely with the governor, the state legislature, UConn, and our local hospitals to compete and secure the federal funding available for this project."

Dodd said he was confident that by working together, "we can make a strong case for this funding and create a center of health care excellence."

Hogan called the vote "the happy outcome of many years of hard work on the part of UConn's administration and board of trustees."

During the past three years, Hogan has worked closely with CEOs of regional hospitals affiliated with UConn's School of Medicine to develop collaborative strategies to address the fiscal challenges at the Dempsey Hospital.

Hogan said he was grateful to the governor and the bi-partisan leadership in the General Assembly.

The legislation provides $207 million in additional UCONN 2000 funds for the construction of the bed tower and renovations of hospital facilities, as well as $30 million to support collaborative initiatives, including a shared Simulation Center at Hartford Hospital, an Institute for Primary Care at St. Francis Hospital, a Health Disparities Institute, national designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Network, an Institute for Nursing Excellence and support for the Connecticut Institute for Clinical & Translational Science.

The university board has approved the proposal and helped garner legislative support in the last few months as the bill moved through the House and then the Senate.

"It has truly been a team effort," Hogan said, but acknowledged that there is still work to do, specifically applying for $100 million in funding from federal or private sources.

State Sen. Donald DeFronzo, D-New Britain, was instrumental in the passing of the measure, which includes a cancer center for Hospital of Central Connecticut. DeFronzo said he believes the University of Connecticut is already engaged in private fund-raising while working on submission for federal funds.

"There is a reasonably good chance we'll get the $100 million," said DeFronzo, "but there are no guarantees. Everything is contingent on that."

Dodd included a provision in the health care reform legislation that was recently signed into law by President Obama. This provision allocates $100 million for the construction of a university hospital that provides research, inpatient and outpatient services.

UConn is one of several hospitals in the country that qualify for the grant. The hospital must be affiliated with an academic health center at a public university. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will decide which institution receives the program's funding.

"This was one of those times that made me proud to be a member of the New Britain delegation," said state Rep. Peter Tercyak, D-New Britain.

The bill includes a $5 million infusion for the construction of a cancer treatment center within the city of New Britain, renovations to the oncology unit at the Hospital of Central Connecticut and creation of a permanent regional Phase I clinical trials unit in New Britain.

The bill also includes $2 million for renovations to patient rooms at Bristol Hospital.

"The major problem with the original proposal-and with the previous proposals devised for the University of Connecticut Health Center-were that they failed to take into account the regional impact of this proposal," said Senator DeFronzo. "We needed a plan that not only worked for Connecticut's major health care institutions but for all of central Connecticut. This plan addresses the greater needs of the region and provides support for facilities in New Britain and in Bristol that are just as vital to the quality of care in central Connecticut as UConn and the Hartford-based hospitals. It was critically important to me that any legislation we ultimately gave our approval to was a comprehensive approach. I fought for these regional initiatives, and I'm very pleased with the final outcome of this bill."

"I'm happy we were able to work together to give this bill some additional scope, and provide benefits for hospitals and medical facilities all across the state," Senator Colapietro said. "After discussing the needs of Bristol Hospital with CEO Kurt Barwis, we were able to secure funds for renovations in some of the patient rooms. With support for an improved UConn Health Center, bioscience enterprise zones and medical facilities in Bristol, New Britain and elsewhere, this bill makes a great investment in the future of Connecticut's health care system."

The legislation also creates a new enterprise zone enveloping Hartford, portions of Farmington, large sections of New Britain and Bristol for the development of bioscience and biotechnology industries. Qualifying bioscience business startups would receive and 80 percent credit if located within the new enterprise zone.

Further, both Bristol Hospital and the Hospital of Central Connecticut would share in the network development at the participating hospital, which include Hartford Hospital, John Dempsey, St. Francis and the Connecticut Children's Medical Center.

"This legislation is a large investment in the creation of high technology and biotech jobs in our area," said Representative Tim O'Brien (D-New Britain).

"This is great news for Bristol Hospital and the Hospital of Central Connecticut, their patients and our region," Representative Betty Boukus ( D-Plainville, Bristol, New Britain) said. "We are making sure our local hospitals get the funding they need to thrive."

"Good things can happen for our cities when we work together as a team," said Representative Frank Nicastro, Sr. (D-Bristol/Forestville) stated. "We let them know our concerns and what we felt should be done to resolve issues in our community hospitals."

"First, I want to thank Don DeFronzo for making a good proposal even better for New Britain," said Representative Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain). "The Hospital of Central Connecticut was already working toward having a top notch cancer center. Now, in collaboration with UConn and our other partners, we will build a cancer center here in New Britain that will be part of a 'comprehensive cancer center' per the standards set by the National Institute of Health. There are potentially life-saving clinical trials that are only available in our area at Sloans-Kettering, Yale and Dana Farber, because they are 'comprehensive cancer centers.' Soon, we will have that level of care in New Britain."

The legislation-House Bill 5027, An Act Concerning the University of Connecticut Health Center's Facilities Plan-was approved in final action tonight in a 28-to-7 vote in the Senate. It was previously approved in the House of Representatives and now goes to Governor M. Jodi Rell for consideration.

The 2010 regular legislative session adjourns tomorrow, May 5.

HARTFORD - A plan for $362 million in new construction and renovations at the University of Connecticut Health Center along with some benefits for Bristol got the green light Tuesday.

Moments after the state Senate approved the measure 28-7 Tuesday, a spokesman for Gov. M. Jodi Rell said she will sign it "as soon as it reaches her desk." That's expected within days.

The bill would create the UConn Health Network, in which area hospitals would collaborate in providing health care services.

The network would include the most prominent medical institutions in the Hartford region - the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain, Hartford Hospital, St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Bristol Hospital and Waterbury Hospital.

State Rep. Peter Tercyak, D-New Britain, said Tuesday that the measure includes $5 million for the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain to develop a cancer treatment center.

On Monday, Bristol legislators, citing its passage in the state House over the weekend, noted that it includes $2 million for new rooms and renovations at Bristol Hospital and would create a bioscience research district in the city.

The project "represents a critical leap forward - not just for a state-of-the-art John Dempsey Hospital in Farmington but for a health network with incredible reach throughout Connecticut and thousands of new jobs that will be associated with the network and the hospital," read a statement from Rell's office.

Under the legislation, a $236 million patient tower at UConn's John Dempsey Hospital in Farmington would be built, existing space at the hospital would be renovated at a cost of $96 million and $30 million would be spent on the network programs involving the area hospitals.

The UConn project is expected to create 5,000 health care jobs, add more classroom and lab space for students and address expected shortages in the medical and dental professions.

Key points of the project, according to Rell. "We are taking steps to put UConn's schools of medicine and dentistry into the top tier of academics and research. We are moving to increase classroom and lab space for those students and offset the shortages we expect in those essential professions. And we are setting the stage for enormous improvements in the health care we provide and tremendous growth in the number of people that industry employs."

"We are thrilled we will be receiving these funds, which are targeted for creation of a clinical research center for treatment of cancer," said Helayne Lightstone, director of corporate communications for The Hospital of Central Connecticut. "This research - known as Phase I trials - will allow patients to participate in studies of new drugs and treatments for cancers that haven't responded to other therapies. When you have cancer and standard treatments aren't working, this is an incredibly important option."

HARTFORD — In a bill hailed as a way to attract more sportsmen and women to the woods, Connecticut hunters would be allowed to use powerful revolvers starting this fall, under legislation that passed overwhelmingly Tuesday in the House.

The bill, which previously passed the Senate, moves to the governor for review and possible support.

If signed into law, it would allow hunters, for the first time, to use handguns ranging from .357 magnums to .50-caliber weapons. Semi-automatics would not be allowed.

"It's another opportunity for sportsmen to participate in hunting activity," said Robert Crook, president of the Coalition of Connecticut Sportsmen.

The legislation passed in a 113-34 vote.

The bill also includes a provision for hunters who bought licenses last year to receive credit on overpayment, after the Legislature acted in April to reduce fees. In all, about $1.15-million would be credited to hunters for their upcoming fall licenses.

Crook said 47 states allow hunters to use handguns. The expanded opportunity would require a special $5 fee.

"Why hand guns?" asked Rep. Maryanne Hornish, D-Granby, an animal-rights advocate who opposed the legislation.

"This still doesn't sound like a good idea to me," said Rep. Peter Tercyak, D-New Britain. "We have enough danger when it comes to hunting now. I just don't think this is safe."

In an unrelated bill that passed 126-22 and heads to the governor for review, pet owners who improperly tether their dogs, including the use of choke-style collars on stationary objects, for an "unreasonable period of time" would be liable for mandatory $100 fines for a first offense.

"I'm very pleased with the intent," said Rep. Jason Perillo, R-Shelton. "I'm just concerned about the way it's written." Proponents of the bill said that only owners who leave their animals untended would be in violation.

"To me this is a common-sense bill," said Rep. Auden Grogins, D-Bridgeport, who brought the bill to the House floor.

Tethered dogs would have to be allowed eight feet of walking space.

Rep. Tercyak said the bill, which now goes to Gov. M. Jodi Rell for her signature, gives tenants more of a voice in how decisions are made that affect their dwellings and living conditions.

"Residents of public housing all around the state are involved in making their communities better places to live," Rep. Tercyak said. "They really do care and work hard to make the conditions of their housing better. They deserve more of a voice in how decisions affecting their lives and homes are made."

Under the bill, An Act Concerning the Selection of Tenant Commissioners (SB 320), tenants residing in units owned or managed by a housing authority are allowed to form a tenant organization that would recommend tenants to sit as a member or commissioner on a public authority board of directors.

The bill also eliminates a length-of-residency requirement and permits any tenant who lives in authority owned and managed housing or who receives housing assistance in a program directly administered by the authority the right to serve as a commissioner. 

Led by Rep. Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), legislators will celebrate Polish Day at 11 a.m. Monday in the Hall of the Flags at the State Capitol. The event will mark the 219th anniversary of Poland's Constitution.  

The ceremony will also honor the late president of Poland, Lech Kaczynski, his wife and 94 other Polish dignitaries and members of the plane crew who lost their lives April 10 in a plane crash.

Additionally, lawmakers will honor Irena Sendler, a heroine who saved nearly 2,500 Jewish children during the Nazi-German occupation of Poland during World Wall II, Frederic Chopin, the famous composer, and Polish Americans who have made significant contributions to society.

The crew and 96 passengers, including Poland's leaders, died April 10 when a Polish Air Force Tupolev aircraft crashed near Smolensk, Russia.

The victims included Poland's President Lech Aleksander Kaczynski and his wife Maria Kaczynska; the chief of the General Staff of the Polish Army, Franciszek Gagor, and other senior military officers; the president of the central bank of Poland; the deputy minister of foreign affairs; government officers; vice speakers and members of parliament; senior members of clergy; and descendants of those who were killed in the Katyn forest massacre.

The victims were en route from Warsaw to attend an event to mark the 70th anniversary of the Katyn mass murder.

In 1940, more than 22,000 Polish nationals, members of the military, doctors, professors, lawmakers, police officers and other Polish public servants imprisoned by the Soviet NKVD were executed.

"Connecticut has a large Polish population," said Tercyak, who is Polish. "We have well over 300,000 who have immigrated. Over the weekend we saw Connecticut's Polish people pull together as a result of this tragedy."

Tercyak thanked everyone for their expressions of support as the Polish community copes with the loss.

"This would have been a historic week in dealing with this massacre without this tragic loss," he said.

NEW BRITAIN - State Rep. Peter Tercyak, D-New Britain, praised students and others who led the effort to restore funding for the licensed practical nurse program in the state's vocational technical high schools.

As part of the state's deficit mitigation compromise measure, the state House of Representatives voted Tuesday to restore funding for the program beginning July 1. The state Senate voted Wednesday and sent the measure to Gov. M. Jodi Rell for her signature.

"This came about because of the hard work of students who would not give up in their efforts to get money restored for the LPN program," said Tercyak, a registered nurse. Tercyak said Rell's earlier plan to eliminate state funding for the LPN program would not only have hurt job growth but also public health.

Suspended by the governor, the LPN program has been dormant since Jan. 1.
Tercyak stressed the need for qualified nurses.

"All of us should be working as hard as we can to save this important job training program," he said. "LPN's are the backbone of our state's nursing home care. The nursing home industry depends on qualified graduates of this program."

In 2006, the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration correctly estimated that Connecticut would be short by more than 11,000 registered nurses in 2010. By 2020 it is projected that this number will double, leaving the state with fewer than half the nurses it needs.

In addition, the average age of nurses is higher in Connecticut than in other states. Many students who enroll in nursing programs come from other states and return after graduation, or they take nursing jobs in more affordable states.

According to the state Department of Labor there are more than 300 openings for licensed vocational and practical nurses each year. These jobs often pay a salary of more than $50,000.

The LPN program administered at a state technical high school costs each student about $5,000. According to Tercyak, enrollment in a private, licensed practical nurse education program would cost a student approximately seven times more - tuition few potential nursing students can afford. He said the current program graduates more than 300 nurses every 16 months.

As part of the state's deficit mitigation compromise measure, the House of Representatives voted Tuesday to restore funding for the program in the next fiscal year beginning July 1. The Senate voted Wednesday and sent the measure to Gov. M. Jodi Rell for her expected signature.

"This came about because of the hard work of students who would not give up in their efforts to get money restored for the LPN program," Rep. Tercyak, a registered nurse, said. "The current students, who will not benefit from the compromise, worked hard out of concern for the students of the future."

Rep. Tercyak said Gov. M. Jodi Rell's earlier plan to eliminate state funding for the LPN program would not only hurt job growth but also public health. 

The LPN program was suspended by the governor and has been dormant since Jan. 1.

"There is a need for qualified nurses and all of us should be working as hard as we can to save this important job training program," Rep. Tercyak said. "LPN's are the backbone of our state's nursing home care," Rep. Tercyak said. "The nursing home industry depends on qualified graduates from the state's LPN program."

According to the state Department of Labor there are more than 300 openings for licensed vocational and practical nurses each year; jobs that often offer an average annual salary of over $50,000.

The LPN program at a state technical high school costs each student about $5,000.  Attending a private licensed practical nurse education program would cost a student about seven times as much; a price that many of the students would be unable to afford.  The current program produces over 300 nurses every 16 months.

NEW BRITAIN - State Rep. Peter Tercyak, D-New Britain, a licensed and registered nurse for more than 25 years, is calling for cuts to the state's licensed practical nursing program to be restored.

Joined by state Rep. Betty Boukus, D-Plainville, the two are echoing calls from the bipartisan LPN Legislative Working Group to reinstate the LPN program at the state's vocational technical high schools.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell suspended the program during a round of recent budget cuts leaving the program dormant since the beginning of the year.

Tercyak was confronted on the issue Tuesday at the New Britain Senior Center by Ann Mikulak, president of the Citizen's Properties Owner's Association.

"We need to have funding for more LPN's restored," Mikulak said. "As seniors we need the services they perform and without them what is going to happen to us if we get sick?"

Tercyak said he agreed that funding should be restored, and hoped the governor would reconsider her stance.

"LPN's are the backbone of our state's nursing home care," Tercyak said. "The nursing home industry depends on qualified graduates from the state's LPN program."

According to Boukus, the LPN programs at a state technical high school costs each student about $5,000.

Attending a private licensed practical nurse education program would cost a student about seven times as much - a price that many of the students would be unable to afford.

"These cuts hurt job growth and public health," Boukus said. "There is a need for qualified nurses and we should be working as hard as we can to save this important job training program."

The LPN Working Group, formed by state Senate President Donald Williams, is considering various ways to reinstate the program that produces more than 300 nurses every 16 months.

NEW BRITAIN - The city's legislative delegation got a taste Tuesday of what the next General Assembly session may bring: demands for spending cuts alongside demands to protect programs.

About 15 people came to a public forum at the senior center and several urged legislators to keep funding social service programs that benefit the city's large population of poor and elderly.

Others insisted the General Assembly should show more leadership in cutting costs to close the $500 million deficit projected in this year's budget.

"It's getting worse, and everyone is waiting for someone else to do something," said Helene Groman, a board member of the Citizen Property Owners Association of New Britain. "I expect you people to have the answers. All I can see is everyone is passing the buck."

But state Sen. Donald DeFronzo, Rep. Tim O'Brien and Rep. Peter Tercyak - all Democrats - said the General Assembly endorsed $200 million in spending cuts that Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell still hasn't implemented.

Ann Mikulak, president of the taxpayers association, said that as a retired state employee, she'd be willing to skip her cost-of-living pension increase to help balance the budget. Tercyak replied that legislators can't negotiate contracts, and that only two people have the authority to negotiate a cost-of-living increase giveback: the head of her union and Rell.

"I can no more do that than I can stop someone for speeding," Tercyak said.

DeFronzo said the city's delegation will work to maintain state aid to education, Dial-a-Ride, nursing homes, after-school programs, domestic violence shelters and the Spanish Speaking Center. He said the budget dispute between Rell and the General Assembly is not merely partisan, but reflects fundamental policy differences.

"The governor wants [tax] breaks for the wealthy," he said. "There's a fundamental difference in values and perspectives."

When Tercyak asked "To balance the budget, what benefit are you getting now that you're willing to give up or reduce?" the audience was silent.

"We've been hearing politicians say 'cut the waste' since Richard Nixon," said Tercyak. "Show me the waste and I'll go after it."