Immigrants Rights & Resources Guide, and more

January 31, 2025


 
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Dear Neighbor,
Happy Friday - I hope you had a great week.

Regardless of your immigration status, you have guaranteed rights under the Constitution.  The ACLU of Connecticut has prepared a comprehensive Immigrants' Rights & Resources Guide below.  Learn more about your rights as an immigrant.
 

The Connecticut State Department of Education has issued a guidance document to every K-12 public school district in response to questions regarding the impact that recent changes in policy guidance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security pertaining to immigration enforcement activities may have on school operations, student privacy, and the safeguarding of students while in school.

This guidance is lengthy, but it is critical to know what steps our state is taking to ensure compliance with state and federal laws while also keeping our students safe.
 

The Connecticut Association of Latinos in Higher Education is now accepting applications for scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year.

They are offering 25 scholarships, each valued at $1,000, to help incoming freshman students and college graduates.

Below are the scholarship criteria:

  • Limited to Latino students from Connecticut. (resident for the past twelve past months)
  • Must demonstrate financial need.
  • Accepted at or attending an accredited institution of higher education.
  • A cumulative GPA of 2.75 for all completed course work at the time of application.
  • Applicants must attend full time and be seeking their first undergraduate degree.
  • Demonstrated community service within the Latino community.
  • Essay: How are you unique?  Describe how this uniqueness helped you with your academic success. (Maximum 2-page typewritten double space statement).
  • While these are the minimum qualifications, however, the awards are made on a competitive basis.

Click here to apply!
 

I understand what's going on nationally, but we can't stop doing our jobs for the people of Connecticut, and that starts with putting forward good public policy.

House and Senate Democratic leaders announced on Tuesday a legislative proposal to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for providers, which is long overdue. A recent state Medicaid Rate Study found that Connecticut lags well behind peer states when paying providers under Connecticut’s Medicaid program. Many areas of care are currently reimbursed at the same levels they were in 2007.

Increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates is a worthy investment, and that’s the type of good work we’re going to keep doing here.

You can watch my colleagues speak on this proposal here.
 
Affordable car insurance is a necessity for people of all ages, but it holds particular significance for individuals who are 60 and older. Because this demographic often faces unique challenges and mobility needs, ensuring access to reasonably priced car insurance is vital.
 
Please read below to learn how drivers in that age group can get informed about and register for an accident prevention course to get discounts on car insurance.

Driving is often key in maintaining independence, especially in areas where public transportation is unreliable. For older adults, a car often represents a lifeline to healthcare appointments, grocery stores, social engagements, and visits with loved ones. Ensuring affordable car insurance allows seniors to remain active in their communities.

Many people aged 60 and older live on fixed incomes, and rising insurance premiums can strain their budgets. Locking into an affordable insurance rate would provide financial stability for seniors.
 
By prioritizing and offering car insurance affordability, we can create a more inclusive society that values the mobility and independence of all its members, regardless of age.

 
Below is an important message from the CT Department of Transportation:

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is issuing a critical safety reminder for all motorists: if you experience a breakdown or emergency on a highway, the safest place to be is inside your vehicle. Highways are designed for vehicles traveling at high speeds, and even a brief moment outside your car can have deadly consequences. CTDOT want all motorists to be informed and prepared to make the safest choices during roadside emergencies.

CTDOT advises drivers to follow these critical safety tips in the event of a breakdown or emergency along the highway:

  • Pull Over Safely: Move your vehicle into the right shoulder. If you can, position your car so it’s entirely off the roadway and away from moving traffic.
  • Call for Assistance: Use your phone to call 911.
  • Stay in Your Vehicle: The safest place to be is inside your car. Keep your seatbelt fastened, turn on your hazard lights, and wait for help to arrive. If you are unable to stay in your vehicle due to fire, find a location away from both the burning vehicle and from the travel lanes.
  • Be Visible: At night or during inclement weather, ensure your hazard lights are on and use any reflective gear you have.
  • Avoid Exiting the Vehicle: Never stand or walk on the highway, even if you think traffic is light. The speed of passing vehicles can make it difficult for drivers to react in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
 
Sincerely,

Juan Candelaria
State Representative
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