Juan R. Candelaria

This week, the annual crime statistics report that compiles data on crimes reported to state law enforcement agencies was released, and it shows violent and property crimes are down from the previous year, which preserves Connecticut's status as one of the safest states in the country.

This is reminder that if you or someone you know is elderly or disabled and currently renting housing, the Connecticut’s Renters’ Rebate Program deadline to apply is fast approaching. 

State Comptroller Natalie Braswell announced that her office will transfer $3.1 billion into the rainy-day fund. This move triggers a statutory mandate that requires a one-time, special payment of $2.8 billion to be made toward the state’s unfunded pension liabilities.

The Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s (HHF) 2022 Youth Awards educational grants program is now accepting applications! The 24th Annual Youth Awards will award students who are in the graduating Class of 2023 with up to $4000 in educational grants to fund their higher education or to fund a community-based project.

Voting is one of our nation’s most fundamental rights and a hallmark of our democracy. It is critical that all eligible voters have equal access and opportunity to participate in our electoral process.

This week we raise awareness and ensure individuals, friends, and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.
Suicide prevention begins with all of us. Learn about the risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs of suicide here: https://bit.ly/3qhYJqM

President Biden announced he will sign an executive order which will forgive up to $10,000 of student loan debt for individuals making less than $125,000 per year (and couples earning less than $250,000). Borrowers who received a Pell Grant may be eligible to receive up to $20,000 in loan forgiveness.

​​​​​​​I want to alert you about a recent communication from the Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) on a series of text scams that include links to fake webpages resembling CTDOL unemployment pages, including the unemployment benefits login page.