Refundable Child Tax Credit Proposal, Access Health CT Broker Academy, and CT History Day Judges Needed

February 20, 2026



We are hard at work at the Capitol, with daily committee meetings in full swing and another session day scheduled for next week. Our days are long and productive, centered on carefully reviewing proposed legislation, listening to testimony from constituents and subject-matter experts, and working collaboratively with colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Every discussion and vote is guided by our commitment to addressing the issues that matter most to our community and ensuring thoughtful, responsible decisions on their behalf.
 


Refundable Child Tax Credit

I am proud to be one of the over 77 legislators backing House Bill 5134An Act Establishing a Refundable Child Tax Credit. The proposal calls for a fully refundable child tax credit of $600 per child, for up to three children, available to families earning up to $100,000 for single filers and $200,000 for joint filers. The measure would deliver meaningful, immediate relief to working families across Connecticut.
 
More than 550,000 children would benefit, with approximately 75% of families qualifying statewide. Connecticut is the only state with a personal income tax that does not adjust for family size, a refundable credit is essential to ensure fairness. Making the credit fully refundable guarantees that families who owe little or no income tax still receive the full benefit.
 
If passed, this policy will both provide financial relief and serve as an economic stimulus, encouraging families to spend the credit quickly on essential needs. 

Click the image below to hear my comments.


Access Health CT:
The Broker Academy

Access Health CT is committed to reducing health disparities across Connecticut. To support this mission, a free Broker Academy training program is being offered to empower community members and organizations to drive positive change. Participants will receive comprehensive training, have their exam fees covered, and be paired with a mentor, ensuring support at every step of the journey.

Minimum requirements to apply:

  • 18 years or older
  • High school diploma or GED
  • 1-3 recommendation letters Community service experience
  • Preference will be given to applicants who reside or work in underserved areas

Click here for more information and to sign up for notifications.

For questions, email  AHCT.BrokerAcademy@ct.gov

Click here to sign up for a virtual Broker Academy Info Session, multiple dates available.


Judges Needed for Connecticut History Day

A program called Connecticut History Day is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to serve as judges at one of its five Regional Contests. Judges play a crucial role in encouraging students as they share their historical research and creative work. Click here to learn more and sign up to judge at a regional contest.

Judges have the opportunity to meet students, evaluate and rank projects, and provide meaningful, constructive feedback to every participant. No prior judging experience is necessary, judges receive pre-contest training and clear materials to review in advance.

Contest day judging runs from 8:00 a.m. until the early afternoon with coffee, snacks, and lunch provided. Website and paper judges meet with students on contest day, but they review projects in the week prior to the event. Documentary, performance, and exhibit judges both view the project and meet with the students at the contest.


Vernon PD Hiring

Click here for more information and to apply for Entry Level Police Officer.

Click here for more information and to apply for Certified Police Officer.


Community Events

The opening reception for the Joy in Color exhibit is Saturday, February 21 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Art Center East (709 Hartford Turnpike). The exhibit runs until March 21.


Click here to buy tickets to Frozen.


Click here to apply for seasonal or permanent jobs with the town of Vernon.