Raghib Allie-Brennan

At yesterday’s public hearing on Senate Bill 647, we heard a wide range of perspectives on how this proposal could impact energy costs, consumer protections, and funding for key programs.

Last week, we held a public hearing on HB 7040, the bill I introduced to tackle unfair insurance denials and ensure access to life-saving medical treatments. While I had originally pushed for immediate legislative action, the bill was converted into a study to examine health carrier coverage guidelines, utilization review practices, and mandated coverage for critical treatments.

Tomorrow, the Energy & Technology Committee will hold a public hearing on several important bills aimed at addressing energy affordability and the public benefits charge. These proposals could have a direct impact on your utility costs, and I want to ensure your voice is heard.

Today, I met with members of the Connecticut Sentencing Commission for an update on the subcommittee that Chair Stafstrom and I requested be created to examine sentencing outcomes in domestic and intimate partner violence cases.

This past week, I made two important votes—one to support increased special education funding and another to ensure essential services continue for those in need. Both decisions were guided by a commitment to fiscal responsibility, long-term sustainability, and ensuring real, lasting results for Connecticut residents.

On Monday, I was proud to vote for a bill allocating $40 million in funding to special education, giving immediate support to more than 140 school districts in our state and helping to provide the highest quality education for our students.

I want to take a moment to address Duracell’s recent announcement about relocating its Global Research & Development Headquarters from Bethel to Atlanta.

House and Senate leadership have announced that both chambers will vote next week on an immediate $40 million in state funding to support Special Education needs for the current fiscal year. This funding, allocated through the Excess Cost Grant program, will be distributed using a tiered reimbursement structure that prioritizes the most financially strained cities and towns. The House will convene on Monday, February 24, and the Senate on Tuesday, February 25.