Kevin Brown

Last week, we reflected on Constitution Day and the vital role that informed citizenship plays in our democracy. I’m pleased to announce the publication of my op-ed in the CT Mirror, which highlights the work of the Civics Education, Civics Engagement, & Media Literacy Task Force. It has been an honor to co-chair this task force and to collaborate with a diverse group of educators, policymakers, and advocates who share a common goal: to strengthen our democracy by empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary for active, informed participation.

In the op-ed, I outline the key findings and recommendations from our task force's report, particularly the urgent need to improve civics education in schools, promote greater civic engagement, and enhance media literacy among all generations. The stakes could not be higher, as we navigate an increasingly complex media environment that shapes public discourse and decision-making. Our recommendations aim to build a more resilient and informed electorate, ensuring that every citizen has the knowledge and agency to contribute meaningfully to our democracy.

I encourage everyone to click the image below and read the full op-ed. These efforts are not just about educating students, they’re about equipping people of all ages to understand their rights and responsibilities in an ever-evolving democratic society.

Click here to read the Civics Task Force Final Report.

With fall comes cooler weather, changing leaves, and a number of new laws hitting the books. Several measures passed during the 2025 legislative session and took effect on October 1. Below is a brief overview of some of these important changes!

There is good news for drivers, a new law is changing how towing works in our state, making it harder for cars to be towed from private property and easier for people to get their cars back if they are towed. Right now, state law lets towing companies start the process of selling a towed car worth $1,500 or less just 15 days after the tow, which is one of the shortest timelines in the country. That means if you don’t act fast, your car could be gone for good. The new law doesn’t change that 15-day starting point, but it adds more steps before a car can actually be sold. Now, tow companies have to make a real effort to contact the car’s owner and can’t finalize the sale until 30 days after the tow. 

We’ve updated our motorcycle and e-bike laws to reflect our continued efforts to promote public safety and adapt to emerging technologies on our roads. A new law raises the age from 18 to 21 for requiring motorcyclists to wear a helmet and raises the age from 16 to 18 and under for children to wear a helmet while riding bicycles, scooters and skateboards.

New regulations are also being introduced for certain high-powered electric bikes. Riders of e-bikes without pedals and equipped with batteries over 750 watts (25-28 mph) will now need a valid driver’s license to operate them. Additionally, e-bikes with batteries over 3,500 watts (35 mph to over 50 mph) will require registration and insurance, similar to motorcycles.

Follow the link below for the complete list and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is alerting everyone of a new scam where criminals impersonate the DRS with fraudulent text messages. They claim that you are owed a tax refund and must provide banking and other information to receive the money.

The DRS will NEVER send taxpayers a text message or seek to obtain information from taxpayers via text. If you have information on a tax-related scam, contact DRS by completing a referral form on the agency’s website.

Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to reach out to DRS at 860-297-5962, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. or by email at DRS@ct.gov.

Now that fall has arrived, Connecticut is about to glow with autumn color! Here’s what to expect and how to make the most of it:

• Litchfield Hills / Northwest CT: tends to peak earlier, so early October is ideal there
• Hartford & Central CT: mid‑October is often prime
• Connecticut River Valley: the color can linger a bit, making it great in mid‑to‑late October
• Coastal & Shoreline areas: later in October, sometimes up until Halloween

Click here for the full CT Fall Foliage Report so you know peak viewing times in each area of the state.

The CT Tourism Office has some great ideas on how to enjoy the season, click here for CT's Fall Foliage Road Trip Guide and links to hiking trails and click here for seven different CT Fall Foliage Drive Loops around the state and the peak times to take them.

Don’t miss your chance to soak in the season’s beauty!