Raghib Allie-Brennan

Our Bill to Hold Insurers Accountable Moves Forward & Human Trafficking Legislation Update

View this email in your browser Dear Neighbors, I’m excited to share that yesterday, HB 7040—the bill I introduced to address unfair insurance denials—passed out of committee and is now heading to the House floor for a vote!   This bill was inspired by Daniel Pearson, a young man from the Danbury area whose insurance company denied him life-saving heart surgery. His story is just one of many, and it’s clear we need stronger oversight and transparency in how insurers make these critical decisions.   HB 7040 directs the Insurance Commissioner to examine how Connecticut’s insurance coverage guidelines compare to other states, assess the transparency of the utilization review process, and evaluate whether insurers should be required to cover life-saving treatments. By gathering this critical data, we can identify gaps in the system and build a stronger case for real reform to ensure patients receive the care they need without unnecessary denials or delays.   While I had hoped for direct policy changes this session, this study is a crucial step toward real reform and will help us push for stronger action next year.   I’ll keep you updated as we move toward a vote on the House floor. Thank you for your support in this fight to put patients over profits! The recent human trafficking bust in Danbury is a stark reminder that this heinous crime is happening right here in our communities. Connecticut has taken significant steps to combat human trafficking, but there is still more to do.    In recent years, Connecticut has strengthened its laws, including Public Act No. 21-103 (2021), which increased penalties for traffickers, expanded victim protections, and mandated training for professionals to recognize trafficking cases. The state has also launched specialized task forces, such as the Regional Human Trafficking Recovery Taskforce (2023) and the Hartford Human Trafficking Recovery Taskforce, bringing together law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim service organizations to dismantle trafficking networks.   I am working with my colleagues in the General Law Committee on SB 971, which would require hotels, motels, and inns to implement state-led standardized human trafficking prevention training and establish civil penalties for non-compliance. The hospitality industry must be a partner in stopping trafficking, and this legislation ensures that every lodging facility is held accountable. The Danbury case makes it clear: We must do more. I remain committed to strengthening laws, supporting victims, and working with law enforcement to stop human trafficking in our state.    If you or someone you know is in danger, please contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733.  Read about the recent incident here Sincerely, Raghib Allie-Brennan State Representative Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences