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Dear Neighbor,
As we near the halfway point of the legislative session, today marks a key milestone: the Joint Favorable (JF) deadline for the Environment Committee. This is the last day for the committee to advance bills it intends to send forward in the legislative process. While most other committees have already passed their JF deadlines, a few remain—primarily the budget committees like Appropriations and Finance, Revenue & Bonding.
I’m proud to share that several important bills I’ve introduced are advancing out of the Environment Committee today.
HB 5388, which affirms the rights of Connecticut’s Native American tribes to hunt, fish, and gather on their ancestral lands, was the subject of powerful testimony during this week’s public hearing. This legislation is grounded in tribal sovereignty, cultural survival, and respect for centuries of tribal stewardship. I’m committed to working with area tribal nations and colleagues in the legislature to see it through.
HB 6222, my bill to support sustainable aquaculture and strengthen our coastal economy, is also moving forward. In a time of climate uncertainty and growing pressures on working waterfronts, this bill is about protecting livelihoods and responsibly growing our marine-based industries.
I’m also proud to report that HB 6229, my legislation to phase out single-use polystyrene and reduce plastic waste, was voted out of the committee by a 25–8 bipartisan vote. This bill is a strong step forward in tackling plastic pollution at the source and protecting our waterways and environment.
Finally, HB 7238, my bill to create a statewide short-term rental registry and provide municipalities with clear tools to manage STRs, received a public hearing this week. The bill would establish a centralized registry maintained by the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) to reduce administrative burdens on local governments. It would also allow towns like Groton and Stonington to opt into a supplemental, local tax—up to 2.75%—on STRs, with revenues directed toward local housing initiatives such as affordable housing trust funds. In addition, the bill would require platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to report key data such as rental activity and revenue by municipality to DRS.
Next week, I’ll be diving into HB 5004, the Speaker’s priority climate bill, which I was proud to help draft and co-lead alongside the Chair of the Environment Committee. It represents one of the most ambitious and forward-looking environmental packages in recent memory.
On the local level, budget season has begun in Groton and Stonington. I’m working closely with our town governments and education leaders to ensure our communities receive the state support they need—especially to sustain our schools and essential services.
And finally, thank you to everyone who joined us at the Mystic Irish Parade last weekend—it was a beautiful day and a reminder of what makes our region so special. I’m especially grateful to the volunteers and neighbors who made it all possible.
As spring arrives along the shoreline, we’re reminded of why protecting our environment—and our communities—is so critical.
As always, my office is here to help—whether you’re navigating a state agency, applying for assistance, or want to share your views on legislation.
In service,
Aundré
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I’m proud to have introduced H.B. 5388, a bill that takes long-overdue steps to recognize the sovereignty of Connecticut’s Native American tribes—and affirm their rights to hunt, fish, and gather on their ancestral lands.
For centuries, tribal nations like the Mashantucket Pequot, Mohegan, Eastern Pequot, Golden Hill Paugussett, and Schaghticoke have sustainably stewarded the lands and waters we all benefit from.
This bill creates a path for tribal-led conservation and co-management, while ensuring that cultural traditions can continue without financial or bureaucratic barriers.
Tribal members shouldn’t have to pay the state to practice traditions tied to ceremony, culture, food sovereignty, and survival.
H.B. 5388 guarantees free, lifetime hunting and fishing licenses, with tribal governments—not the state—verifying their members.
This is about sovereignty, respect, and correcting historical injustices.
So much gratitude to the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Tribes for their powerful testimony in support of this bill—and to the Alliance for the Mystic River Watershed for submitting testimony.
Special thanks to Rahiem Eleazer, Environmental Liaison for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, for traveling to Hartford to testify.
When he visited my office, I shared a story that shaped my journey: In 5th grade, I founded the Save the Earth Club at the Regional Multicultural Magnet School—after being selected to attend the International Children’s Conference on the Environment at Conn College, hosted by the United Nations. Who sponsored my attendance? The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe. Full circle moment. That poster still hangs over my left shoulder in my office today. |
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We had an incredible time attending and marching in the 20th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Mystic!
It was amazing to see our community come together to celebrate Irish heritage, local pride, and two decades of tradition.
Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and everyone who lined the streets with joy and green spirit! Until next year—Sláinte! |
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I attended the State of Mystic, Stonington, and Groton Breakfast this morning at the Mystic Hilton—thank you to the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut for bringing our community together.
It was great to hear updates from Stonington First Selectman Danielle Chesebrough, Groton Town Manager John Burt, Groton City Mayor Keith Hedrick, and other local leaders about the progress we’ve made—and what’s ahead for our region.
From unprecedented growth at Electric Boat, to tourism driven by Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport, and our incredible restaurants, to investments in Stonington’s Town Dock supporting our last commercial fishing fleet—business is booming along the Southeastern shoreline.
I’m honored to be your voice in Hartford, supporting key initiatives that strengthen resilience, infrastructure, and education. It’s all about partnerships. |
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I’m excited to share that Children First Groton will be hosting its Third Annual Early Childhood Resource Fair tomorrow—Saturday, March 29, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Thames River Magnet School (250 Brandegee Ave, Groton, CT).
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This free, family-friendly event is a wonderful opportunity for parents, caregivers, and young children (birth to age 8) to explore the many resources our community has to offer—from early education and wellness to safety, enrichment, and support services.
Highlights this year include:
- Free books from the Read to Grow Bookmobile
- Touch-a-Truck Fire Truck activity
- Car seat safety checks
- Over 40 local vendors
Whether you’re a new parent or just looking to connect with early childhood programs and services in Groton, this is a fantastic event to attend. I hope to see you there!
Learn more or RSVP HERE.
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The Town of Stonington is excited to announce a new method of trash collection utilizing mechanical-armed trucks and new carts for household trash. These new carts will dramatically reduce the amount of recyclables that are wind-blown and litter our roads. With attached lids, the carts prevent birds and animals from tearing apart trash bags on collection day.
The primary reason for transitioning to trash carts is to improve waste collection efficiency, leading to cleaner streets, fewer worker injuries, and a more environmentally friendly approach by minimizing litter and potentially increasing recycling participation. Dedicated carts for different waste streams allow for a faster, safer, and more organized process—far superior to traditional trash bags left at the curb.
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What to Expect:
• Delivery of New Carts begins March 31, 2025.
• Households will receive two 95-gallon carts: one for trash, one for recycling.
• Collection will be handled by new automated trash trucks.
Weekly Routine:
• Trash Pickup: Weekly.
• Recycling Pickup: Every other week.
• Set carts at the curb by 6:30 AM on your collection day.
• Trash must be placed in yellow Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) bags and tied before putting into your trash cart.
• Recyclables must be placed loose in the recycling cart—do not bag recyclables and do not include plastic bags. Flatten cardboard to save space.
Enforcement & Compliance:
• Trucks are equipped with cameras to ensure yellow bags are used for trash.
• 1st Infraction: You’ll receive a friendly reminder.
• Continued non-compliance: Trash will not be collected.
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Holiday Schedule (Collection Delays Noted):
• New Year’s Day
• Memorial Day (May 26) – All pickups delayed one day. Friday → Saturday.
• Independence Day (July 4) – Friday route → Saturday.
• Labor Day (September 1) – All pickups delayed one day. Friday → Saturday.
• Thanksgiving (November 27) – Thursday → Friday (28th), Friday → Saturday (29th).
• Christmas Day (December 25) – Thursday → Friday (26th), Friday → Saturday (27th).
Note for Mystic Fire District #4 Residents:
If a holiday or severe weather event falls on your Monday pickup day, your trash will not be picked up the following day. It will instead be collected on your next regular Thursday pickup day.
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW):
Stonington participates in a regional HHW program. The 2025 schedule will be posted in March on the Town homepage and Solid Waste page.
Thank You, Mr. Frank Crandall:
After 21 years of dedicated service to the Town of Stonington, Frank Crandall of Crandall Disposal has retired. We thank him and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.
Helpful Links:
• Trash & Recycling FAQ
• Fire District Trash Pickup Schedule Map (PDF)
• Contact Solid Waste Director Jill Senior
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announcing that 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 week of March 31, 2025.
During this lane shift period, the Scenic Overlook Area will be closed for a duration of 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 starting on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. Minor construction and utility work have already commenced.
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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| The CT DOT is also announcing installation and revision of traffic control signals at 10 locations, including Stonington. |
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| This project is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and is scheduled 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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Join me and the Baker Cove Watershed Committee (BaCWaC), Eastern Connecticut Conservation District (ECCD), Mystic Aquarium, Town of Groton, City of Groton, and Connecticut National Estuarine Research Reserve for a community clean-up effort at Birch Plain Creek Wildlife Area!
Date: Friday, April 11, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Birch Plain Creek Wildlife Area
Rain Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Register here: Google Form
Volunteers will be provided with neon vests, gloves, pickers, garbage bags, and other supplies. Registration is encouraged so organizers can plan accordingly and share any last-minute updates. |
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Why this clean-up matters:
Last year, I had the privilege of participating in this spring clean-up event, and it was an incredibly eye-opening experience. As we worked to remove trash and invasive plant species, I saw firsthand both the challenges and the beauty of the Baker Cove watershed. It was a reminder of how connected we are to the health of our local environment—and how much of a difference we can make when we come together as a community.
This work is deeply personal to me because I grew up behind Birch Plain Creek. It’s not just a place on a map—it’s a place that shaped my childhood. Walking along the creek as a kid, I saw the way the water moved through the landscape, how the marshland absorbed rainfall, and how different species thrived in this environment. Over time, I also saw how development, pollution, and invasive species threatened this critical habitat. That’s why this cleanup—and our ongoing stewardship of this area—matters so much.
Birch Plain Creek is part of the Baker Cove watershed, a 4.2 square-mile ecosystem that plays a crucial role in reducing stormwater runoff in Groton City and the town’s more densely populated, developed, and industrialized landscapes. This watershed acts as a natural filtration system, slowing and absorbing stormwater before it carries pollutants into Fisher’s Island Sound. Without these wetlands and riparian buffers, we would see increased flooding, erosion, and water quality degradation.
Since last year’s cleanup, the area has seen meaningful investment, including the installation of rain gardens, which I helped plant last summer. These rain gardens capture and filter runoff, reduce pollution, and protect water quality—an important step in making sure our local waterways stay clean and resilient in the face of climate change.
Let’s protect this space for generations to come—join us in making a lasting impact! |
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| The Baker Cove Watershed Committee (Bacwac) has announced that its fourth annual RAIN BARREL SALE is ON now. |
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| Please note: You don’t need to be a Groton resident to take advantage, but Public Works encourages locals to embrace it! |
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| The CT Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) is providing updates on funding and other opportunities, since they may be of interest to municipalities. |
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Funding Opportunities for Municipalities
- US DOT Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program: Funding is available for planning and design phase activities for developing transportation projects in rural or tribal communities. Grants will support hiring staff or expert firms to provide technical, legal, or financial assistance to advance transportation projects that would be reasonably expected to be eligible for select DOT discretionary grants or credit programs. There is no local match required to participate in this program. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants with an eligible project who meet the merit criteria, so applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early. The application portal will close on 4/3/25; however, award funding may be committed before this date.
LEARN MORE
- US DOE 2025 Renew America’s Schools Prize: The DOE’s Renew America’s Schools program provides investments to transform decaying public school infrastructure into healthier, more energy-efficient learning environments. The program supports the implementation of infrastructure improvements in schools, with a focus on local educational agencies (LEAs) that qualify as rural and/or high poverty. Through Renew America’s Schools, DOE will help create healthier learning environments, lower utility costs, and redirect funds to support students and teachers. The application submission deadline is 4/3/25.
LEARN MORE
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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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This event aims to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and address challenges faced by the autism community while advocating for legislative action and supportive policies. This event is open to the public.
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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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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