Marcus Brown

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 plenty to get to in the email below, so make sure to keep scrolling for more on: 

• New Laws
• Disability Employment Awareness Month
• COVID-19 Vaccines
• Northeast Public Health Collaborative
• Community Events

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at any time.

Here are a few of the upcoming changes:
 

Towing Rights

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. 

Safety Updates on E-Bikes and Motorcycles

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.
 
The state will introduce new regulations 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.

Empowering Police to Tackle Street Takeovers

New rules will take effect allowing police to increase penalties and fines for street racing and takeovers. Towns will be empowered to destroy confiscated vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, and mini motorcycles. Additionally, anyone with at least three violations could get their license suspended for two years.
 

Protecting Our Seniors

New legislation will protect our seniors by improving safety and transparency for those who are taking care of our loved ones. Long-term care facilities will be required to run background checks on criminal history and patient abuse for employees and volunteers. Residential care homes must now provide more information in notices to residents before an involuntary transfer or discharge.

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

This year marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Governor Ned Lamont has officially proclaimed October 2025 as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Connecticut, recognizing the contributions and achievements of residents with disabilities in the workplace.

Connecticut is a state that values inclusion and remains committed to fostering a workforce where individuals of all abilities are welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed. Inclusive employment benefits both employers and employees which in turn enriches the workplace and strengthens the community.

The Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services plays a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities find, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment. The department helps ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the workplace. Assistance for jobseekers with disabilities is available virtually and in-person, below are links to services:

• Department of Aging and Disability Services: information on employment and other services available to people with disabilities
• Department of Developmental Services: resources and job information for individuals with intellectual disabilities
• Visit one of the Connecticut Department of Labor’s American Job Centers (appointments are recommended)
• CTHires: serves as a one-stop resource to search for jobs, create a resume, and find training
• Attend one of several job fairs that are scheduled across the state

As we celebrate this month, let’s continue working together to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Governor Ned Lamont has implemented several executive orders to ensure that residents who wish to be vaccinated continue to have access to vaccines and that coverage remains uninterrupted under state-regulated health insurance policies. The actions will:

• Permit pharmacists to order, prescribe, and administer the vaccine.
• Establish statewide guidelines for who is eligible to receive the vaccine - Adults of all ages can receive COVID-19 vaccinations at pharmacies and medical practices while children between 6 months and 18 years of age can receive vaccinations through pediatric providers participating in the Connecticut Vaccine Program (CVP).

The accessibility of vaccines should not be determined by partisan politics. These changes will ensure that Connecticut residents and doctors alike have all the tools necessary to keep us healthy.

Click here to learn more.

Several Northeastern states and New York City have formally launched the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, a voluntary regional coalition aimed at improving coordination, sharing resources, and strengthening public health capacity and emergency preparedness.

Purpose & Goals:

• Promote evidence-based public health
• Build trust in vaccines and science
• Ensure equitable access to services
• Protect public health through data-driven decisions
• Joint planning on emergency preparedness, vaccines, data, labs, and workforce
• Coordinated guidance for healthcare workers during respiratory virus season
• Collaboration for 2026 FIFA World Cup public health readiness

The first in-person meeting was held this past August in Rhode Island. The states retain independence and may adapt initiatives to local needs. This collaborative aims to reimagine public health through shared innovation while respecting local autonomy.

Click here for more information.

On Friday, October 10 from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at Baldwin Plaza (Lightning Roadside Assistants, Cannon St.) come out for a night of dancing at Bailando Bridgeport. 

The goal is to draw Bridgeport residents into Downtown Bridgeport to celebrate Latin music during Hispanic Heritage Month and educate dancers about Bachata. Bailando Bridgeport features a night of dancing under the stars with music by WPKN DJ Luis Luna, dance instruction by Rebecca DeVos, and short performances by The Bachata Experience dancers. As always the event is free and welcome to everyone. So bring your dancing shoes and get ready to have some fun.

Civics 101 is a free, two-day workshop designed to build community power by increasing civic knowledge and engagement. Taking place on Saturday, October 18th from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. and Sunday, October 19th from 12:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. at the University of Bridgeport (126 Park Ave.), this workshop offers participants the tools and knowledge needed to get involved, stay informed, and take action in their communities.

As a special highlight, on Saturday evening, award-winning social justice leader Tamika Mallory will join us for a powerful conversation on grassroots organizing, strengthening national networks, and more. Tickets for the evening event are $35, but entry is free for anyone who attends the full Saturday workshop. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and lead! Click here to purchase tickets.