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Dear Neighbor,
With the final month of session almost here - it is crunch time for my fellow lawmakers and I at the capitol. Next week the House of Representatives will meet three times to vote on legislation we've been drafting for months.
As you know, this session I have been putting my focus towards legislation protecting our environment, improving public health, and advancing justice and equity in Connecticut.
This week I had the opportunity to get out into our community and participate in some great events furthering those goals. That includes, planting trees with community members in Groton, talking with students at UConn's Avery Point campus about these priorities, and more.
Here's what you can expect in this week's update:
- Out 'N About in the 41st District
- House in Session Next Week
- Earth Day Expo Begins Tomorrow at 11 a.m.
- Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday
- Raising Autism Awareness Event @ Capitol on Monday
- 3rd CT Food Insecurity Awareness Day is Wednesday
- Senior Day @ The Capitol May 8th
- New Generation of Marine Scientists, Stewards Fellowship
- 3rd Annual Mental Health & Wellness Day is Tuesday, May 20th
- The GOP's Bad Bill Draft
- CT Department of Transportation News
- Veterans Resources & Updates
- Congratulations Ernie!
- Fourth Annual CGA Kickball Classic is May 12th
- Community Events and Notices
Do not hesitate to contact me with any thoughts or concerns you may have at Aundre.Bumgardner@cga.ct.gov or 1-800-842-8267.
Sincerely,
Aundré Bumgardner
State Representative
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This morning, I had the joy of joining the Town of Groton Parks & Recreation, Public Works, and community members at the Groton Public Library to celebrate the 24th annual Arbor Day!
Together, we planted an Autumn Brilliance Shadblow Serviceberry—an ecologically valuable native tree that brings spring blooms, summer berries for birds, and brilliant fall color. It’s a small but mighty step toward growing a healthier, more resilient tree canopy for our town.
A recent tree inventory study confirmed that Groton’s urban forest is a vital asset, offering shade, cleaner air, and resilience against climate change. Our community values trees not just for their beauty, but for the sense of place, history, and connection they bring to every neighborhood.
In Hartford, I’m working to protect that canopy at the state level by advancing legislation to phase out invasive trees like the Callery pear and Norway maple—species that crowd out native habitats and weaken our ecosystems. Native trees like the one we planted today are essential to reversing those trends and restoring biodiversity in our communities.
Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and plant. Let’s keep growing Groton—one tree at a time. |
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Stopped by the UConn Avery Point campus this morning to speak with Kate Richard’s Human Rights class—grateful for the opportunity to share my journey in public service and discuss the importance of advancing justice and equity through policy.
I also had the chance to catch up with my friend Andrew Ely, Executive Director of Project Oceanology, about the impactful programming supported by the youth violence prevention funding I helped secure. From enrichment to a week-long spring break camp, they’re creating safe, empowering spaces for local youth.
Later, I met with UConn CIRCA Executive Director Jim O’Donnell and his team to discuss ongoing resilience projects in Mystic and emerging funding needs. It’s clear: when it comes to climate adaptation and coastal protection, it’s all hands on deck.
I was truly saddened to miss an important campus event later in the day focused on the impact of federal funding cuts and executive orders. Creating space for open dialogue, mutual support, and shared resources is more important than ever—and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who organized and participated in this critical conversation.
While I couldn’t be there in person, please know I stand firmly with the UCONN AP faculty and remain committed to advocating for the resources, protections, and support our public institutions and their people deserve.
It’s an honor to represent this incredible university—and all those working every day to serve our region—in the Connecticut General Assembly. |
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Coming up at the Capitol! The House will be back in session next week. Stay tuned for key updates, votes, and what’s on the legislative agenda.
Here are some great ways to stay informed:The Connecticut Network (CT-N) provides live, gavel-to-gavel coverage of legislative sessions. Watch sessions live on Roku, YouTube, or their website HERE. |
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The Earth Day Expo Returns! Join Us! 🌱
Tomorrow the Earth Day Expo returns to Groton Public Library, continuing what has become an annual tradition of community action and a celebration of sustainability. Last year’s event was a huge success, bringing together residents, organizations, and local leaders for a day of learning, advocacy, and engagement—and this year promises to be even better!
- 70+ vendors showcasing eco-friendly products and initiatives
- Five local schools engaging in hands-on environmental education
- Vegan food trucks serving delicious, sustainable meals
- Live coverage from WSHU Radio
- Opportunities to support legislative efforts at my table
- A discussion with students about protecting the planet and our local ecosystem
- Family-friendly activities, local representatives, and much more!
📍 Location: Groton Public Library, 52 Newtown Road, Groton, CT 06340
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
💰 Free entry!
I will also have information available on key legislative efforts, including:
- HB 5004 – The House Democrats’ priority climate bill—let’s get it to the governor’s desk!
- HB 6229 – My bill to eliminate polystyrene and reduce plastic waste
Other important environmental bills before the Connecticut General Assembly
This event has been a great way to demonstrate community engagement and commitment to sustainability year after year, and I’m looking forward to another incredible day of advocacy and action. See you there!
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This free event, open to the public, aims to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and address challenges faced by the autism community while advocating for legislative action and supportive policies.
The Program will feature insights from medical professionals, personal stories from individuals with autism and parent advocates, and discussions with legislators on current legislative efforts supporting the autism community.
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Program (Room 310)
Organizations from across the state will participate by sharing information about the resources and services they provide to the autism community. Of note: Resource tables will be set up as early as 9 a.m.
- 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Information & Resource Tables
Of note: Resource tables will be set up as early as 9 a.m.
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| Hosted by State Representative Jane Garibay and the Aging Committee on Thursday, May 8th at 10 a.m., Senior Day At The State Capitol is a chance to meet with legislators and learn about important programs and resources available for older adults in Connecticut. Enjoy refreshments, conversations, and community. Food and ice cream will be served. |
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| I am very excited about this fellowship opportunity for high school students 16 years of age or older. Please see below for more details. |
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| 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. |
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The NFL Draft is up and running, and teams will be looking for their next star while looking to avoid a first-round bust that could set back their franchise.
During the 2025 legislative session, House and Senate Republicans made a host of bills available for selection but they are a series of busts, which would set Connecticut back if passed and signed into law, so avoid this legislation! |
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announcing wrong-way driver detection maintenance and recertification on I-95 in North Stonington, Stonington, and Groton starting the evening, April 16, 2025.
The Wrong-Way Detection System uses video cameras to detect vehicles that are traveling in the wrong direction. If a vehicle is detected, wrong-way signs outlined with multiple sets of red lights are activated and begin flashing to alert the driver they are traveling in the wrong direction. Additionally, the system alerts the CTDOT Highway Operations Center and local State Police Troop barracks in real-time, allowing staff to monitor the activities of the wrong-way driver on the ramp.
The following locations are included in this project:
| Route/Interstate |
Town |
Location |
| I-95 Southbound |
North Stonington |
Exit 92 Off-Ramp to Route 2 |
| I-95 Northbound |
Stonington |
Exit 90 Off-Ramp to Route 27 |
| I-95 Northbound |
North Stonington |
Exit 92 Off-Ramp to Route 2 |
| I-95 Northbound |
Groton |
Exit 88 Off-Ramp to Route 117 |
Motorists can expect ramp closures at the locations listed above from Wednesday evening, April 16, to Thursday morning, April 17, 2025. Traffic should follow the posted detours. The work schedule for this project is from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.
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A lane shift along I-95 northbound between the Exit 89 on-ramp to just past the bridge over Deans Mill Road will be in effect starting the week of March 31, 2025.
During this lane shift period, the Scenic Overlook Area will be closed for no more than 8 weeks to facilitate construction improvements in this area. Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area. |
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Culvert Replacement on Route 215 in Groton
A culvert replacement at Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove will be performed on Route 215 in Groton has begun. Minor construction and utility work have already commenced.
This project is scheduled to typically occur on Mondays through Fridays with anticipated completion on November 22, 2025. The project will address the deterioration of the existing headwalls and the separation of the culvert sections spanning Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove on Route 215 in Groton, Connecticut. The project is scheduled to be completed on November 22, 2025.
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| Installation and revision of traffic control signals at 10 locations, including Stonington, has begun. |
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| This project is to be completed on Friday, August 22, 2026. At applicable locations, pedestrian control features, such as countdown pedestrian indications, accessible pushbuttons, and sidewalk ramps, will be upgraded to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety. |
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As the State Representative for Groton, Mystic, and Stonington, home to a strong military community and the U.S. Naval Submarine Base, I am committed to ensuring Veterans, active-duty service members, and military families have access to the latest updates, resources, and opportunities.
Below are important events, legislative updates, and benefit programs that may be of interest to our district’s Veterans. |
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Upcoming Events for Veterans
WWII Veterans Ceremony – May 19, 2025Location TBDThis event, hosted by Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Connecticut Veterans Affairs, and the Connecticut National Guard, will honor our remaining WWII Veterans in recognition of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. More InfoWreaths Across America – Start Sponsoring Now!Every year, we strive to place a wreath on all requested graves at the Connecticut Veterans Cemetery and Col. Gates Cemetery. You can sponsor early to help us reach our goal. Sponsor Here2025 Municipal Veteran Representative Training – June 13, 2025A vital event for all Municipal VetReps who assist Veterans in accessing services.
Legislative & Policy Updates
2025 Connecticut General Assembly Session Opened January 8Veterans can track bills related to military benefits, tax relief, and more using the General Assembly’s Bill Tracking Tool: Track Bills HereHow to Get a Copy of Your DD 214
- Your DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is critical for accessing VA benefits. Here’s how to obtain a copy:
- Check with your Town Clerk – Many Veterans file their DD 214 with their local town clerk.
- Contact CT Veterans Affairs – They have an archive of 130,000 DD 214s. Email oaa.dva@ct.gov for assistance.
- Submit a Request to the National Archives – The fastest way is online: Request Here
- If Needed for Burial or Military Honors – Funeral directors have priority retrieval access.
Applying for a Discharge UpgradeVeterans with less than honorable discharges due to PTSD, TBI, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), or sexual orientation (Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell) may be eligible for an upgrade. Learn more and apply online: Discharge Upgrade InstructionsMunicipal Veterans Representative ProgramEach town must appoint a Veterans Representative to help Veterans access services. Find your local VetRep here: Locate Your Rep2025 Veterans Benefits Guide Available for DownloadThe latest edition of the VA’s "Veterans Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers" is now available: Download Here
Stay Connected & Get Involved
I encourage all Veterans, military families, and community members to stay informed and engaged. You can sign up for the Connecticut DVA Newsletter to receive future updates: Subscribe Here.For those looking to connect with fellow Veterans, share stories, and access important resources, consider attending a Veterans Coffeehouse near you. These gatherings provide a welcoming space for Veterans to socialize and receive information about benefits and services:
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- Groton – 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Groton Public Library – 52 Newtown Road
- Mystic – 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Mystic Congregational Church – 43 East Main Street
- Pawcatuck – 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center – 27 Chase Street
For more locations and information, contact:
Gina King, Director, Senior Volunteer Services
gking@tvcca.org | 860-425-6617
If you have any issues, concerns, or ideas related to Veteran services, military families, or legislative priorities, please feel free to reach out to my office. Your service and sacrifices deserve to be honored with the best support possible.
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The Connecticut General Assembly is coming together to support Connecticut Foodshare!
Don’t miss the 2025 CGA Kickball Classic.
📅 May 12, 2025
⏰ 4:30 PM
📍 Dunkin’ Park in Hartford
🎟️ $10
Grab your ticket HERE. |
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