Affordable Childcare, and more

March 7, 2025


 
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Dear Neighbor,
Happy Friday!

Affordable and accessible childcare is essential for Connecticut families and businesses to thrive. H.B. 5003, a top legislative priority for House Democrats this session, will expedite funding for families, attract and retain childcare educators, and enhance both new and existing childcare facilities.

This proposal builds upon Public Act 24-91, passed unanimously last year, and signed by the Governor, which established the Early Childhood Care and Education Fund. Investing in early childhood care and education produces better educational, health, social, and economic outcomes, driving increased revenue while reducing the need for costly spending.

Connecticut is home to approximately 181,000 children under the age of five, with 73% of these young children receiving care outside the home while their parents work.

By providing targeted funding and expanding access to childcare, H.B. 5003 will put more money back into our economy by opening new opportunities for stay-at-home parents to re-enter the workforce. This is not just an investment in childcare—it is an investment in the children of Connecticut and the prosperity of our state.
 
Funding Approved for Special Education
I am thrilled to announce that a deal was reached with the governor and our state will soon be sending $40 million to more than 140 school districts in our state for special education!

These critical resources will help ensure students receive the specialized support they need to thrive.

Special education remains a legislative priority for House Democrats this session, and moving forward, we will continue looking for solutions to lower costs, strengthen services, and provide more financial support for our education system to make sure every child has access to the education they deserve.
 
Next Week's Public Hearings
There are 15 public hearings scheduled next week. Visit this website for information on how to testify on a bill at a public hearing.

If you're interested in testifying or watching a public hearing you can see the schedule for next week below:
 
Job Assistance for Displaced Federal Workers

If you are a Connecticut resident who has been fired or put on unpaid administrative leave from your job with the federal government, please know this…Connecticut has your back.

The federal government may have turned its back on you, but Connecticut appreciates your contributions and employers here are eager to benefit from your expertise.

The Connecticut Department of Labor has brought together several programs and services specifically designed to assist you during this time.

Displaced federal workers and contractors can find more information on the CTDOL homepage at portal.ct.gov/dol.

 
Obtaining Your Immunization Record
Need your immunization record? Get it online from the CT WiZ Public Portal! 
 
CT WiZ is Connecticut's secure Immunization Information System, making it easy to access and manage your vaccination record anytime, anywhere.
 
Visit https://ctwizpublicportal.dph.ct.gov/ to access your immunization record today.
 
Fair Haven's Legislative Town Hall
A reminder that on Saturday, March 15 at 2pm at the Fair Haven Library (182 Grand Ave, New Haven), Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney and I will host a Fair Haven legislative town hall. We will update you on our work at the Capitol, tell you our legislative priorities, and hear about the issues that matter most to you! I hope to see you there!
 
New Haven's Legislative Update
I hope you'll also join me and State Senator Gary Winfield for a legislative update Saturday, March 29 at 2:30pm at the Wilson Library (303 Washington Ave., New Haven)!
 
Sincerely,

Juan Candelaria
State Representative
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