We are closing in on the end of the 2025 legislation session, and we are getting work done. In the past week alone, we passed legislation to support seniors and warehouse workers. We took action on a practical climate bill that will aid in protecting our environment. I have included a listing of bills that passed during this session so far.
You can keep track of our work there. I've also included a couple of important reminders, such as Mental Health & Wellness Day at the Capitol, which I'm hosting, and the CGA Kickball Classic at Dunkin' Park on Monday, where Democrats and Republicans will come together for fun and a worthy cause.
Speaking of worthy causes, standing with Pratt & Whitney workers certainly fits the bill for me.
You are invited to attend the 3rd Annual Mental Health & Wellness Fair at the Capitol on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, and May 5th being Maternal Mental Health Day. The day kicks off with a press conference at the North Lobby of the State Capitol at 9:30 AM, and the fair will begin shortly after at 10:00 AM.
Please click on the image below to hear what the bill does from my colleague, House Labor and Public Employees Committee Chair and State Representative, Manny Sanchez (D-New Britain).
Labor and Public Employees House Chair and State Rep. Manny Sanchez Discusses HB6907
I proudly support the Pratt & Whitney workers who went on strike this week. These workers, merely seeking fair wages, benefits, and job security, are union brothers and sisters in the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). Please see the press release from the Middletown delegation below.
On the first day of Mental Health Awareness Month, we stood together; state leaders, mental health professionals, and individuals with lived experience, for a powerful press conference hosted by Comptroller Sean Scanlon.
We recommitted ourselves to the vital work of breaking stigma, expanding access, and supporting every person’s right to mental health care. The work continues and so does our dedication.
The House voted in favor of HB 5004: An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors.
As our state is increasingly feeling the impacts of climate change, it is the legislature's job to enact meaningful change for the safety of our residents and to emerge as a leader in climate solutions.
This bill takes a comprehensive, practical, and equitable approach to protecting our environment - from homes and schools to jobs and land. It sets clear goals, removes barriers, and puts people and sustainability first, all through the lens of affordability.
Setting new goals for greenhouse gas emissions reductions—including an economy-wide net-zero target by 2050—without imposing costs on ratepayers
Supporting clean energy jobs and businesses through tax incentives, rebates, and a council to guide workforce transitions
Developing strategic plans and expanding access to clean technologies
Expanding loan and grant programs to include more climate-smart projects and ensuring funds benefit low-income residents and renters
Developing plans that address the triple impact of reducing energy costs, lowering emissions, and supporting climate resilience
Encouraging nature-based solutions for reaching our greenhouse gas reduction and other climate goals
The time is now to pass impactful legislation to counter the effects of climate change.
HB 5004 is a wide-ranging measure that focuses on affordability, energy efficiency, and developing a clean economy, and I was proud to cast my vote in favor.
The bill must now pass the Senate and get signed into law by the governor.
The State of Connecticut expanded the benefits it provides to firefighters to include free, enhanced cancer screenings. That means More than 900 firefighters enrolled in the state employee health plan and Partnership Plan will now have free access to a comprehensive, full-body scan once every two years. Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes, and these regular screenings will help keep them healthy and keep their minds at ease. Any firefighter enrolled on the state employee health plan or Partnership Plan who is seeking more information can visit carecompass.ct.gov to connect with a representative, schedule an appointment, and find providers in their area.
Last Wednesday marked the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, with the fall of Saigon - and the Connecticut House of Representatives unanimously passed (146-0-5) what we call the “HERO Act.” The HERO Act (HB 6442) is the result of a bipartisan effort and is a comprehensive package of legislation that reflects collaboration, listening, and a deep, collective respect for those who wore the uniform and served our country.
Among the bill’s components:
Designate November as Veterans’ Month to reflect on and celebrate their military service
Waive fees for the Purple Heart license plate, ensuring accessibility for those who have earned one of our nation’s highest military honors
Create two new commemorative plates - one honoring women veterans and another recognizing the Borinqueneers - providing long-lasting public recognition of their historic contributions
Free license renewals for veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs will evaluate how to improve and address shortcomings in available dental services for veterans
Accelerate nursing home placement for service-connected veterans
Improve school transitions for military families with children requiring special education services
Our veterans were willing to sacrifice everything – including their lives – for this country. They deserve to be seen, valued, and never forgotten.
Shopping SMALL is a BIG deal! Celebrating Connecticut's small businesses and the entrepreneurs who drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen our communities. Their resilience and dedication are the backbone of our state's economy.
Honoring all mothers and mother figures today. Your love makes the world a better place. No matter what today looks like for you, I am sending you love.
