Larry B. Butler

Despite what you hear from the familiar anti-Connecticut talking points, the legislature is working hard to make sure our state is welcoming and being supportive to all businesses – small and large.

For those of you impacted by the changes to the Medicare Savings program, there is good news. The state Department of Social Services has announced that it will delay the scheduled Jan. 1 implementation of income eligibility reductions in the Medicare Savings Programs, as a result of concerns raised by beneficiaries, advocates and legislators.

The Office of Policy and Management has announced that residents enrolled in the state’s Renter’s Rebate program are expected to receive their checks this week.

Today marks Giving Tuesday, an annual reminder that the spirit of the holidays is to help those less fortunate in Waterbury and elsewhere in the state and the country.

Do you and your family have health insurance coverage? Do you know of anyone who needs it? Enrollment in Access Health CT is off to another strong start this year, and you can still sign up until Dec. 22.

The cold weather has finally arrived and now is the time to consider applying for heating assistance. If you are eligible for home heating assistance, this program is here to help you and your family stay warm.

Care 4 Kids, the state’s primary child-care support program, has been reopened, and eligible families on the wait list can now begin to enroll.

The General Assembly's Legislative Internship Program is now accepting applications for spring 2018. Interns work one-on-one with legislators and learn how our state government works. I've had many wonderful interns over the years, and I encourage you to share this opportunity with a college student in your life.