Medicaid Rally and Celebrating Women's History Month

March 20, 2025



 

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This week we wrapped up our work in the Human Services committee. I worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle who choose to serve on this committee because they care deeply about the disabled, elderly, and low income residents. We all want the best for our constituents and to have strong systems to support them. While we in Hartford are tasked with focusing on the business of state policies, we are in uncertain times. With threats to cut Medicaid and Medicare in the federal budget, we are in a difficult and tenuous position.

Tuesday's Medicaid rally at the Capitol was part of a nationwide day of action by members of Congress that brought together state and federal leaders, healthcare workers, advocates, and Medicaid recipients.  The rally aimed to warn of the consequences should Congress approve drastic reductions to Medicaid funding.
 


Medicaid serves hundreds of thousands of the most vulnerable people in our state, including children on the Husky program, people with disabilities, and seniors.

As you can see in the graphic below there are many Branford residents that will be directly affected by these federal funding cuts. Unfortunately our students are set to lose the most.  
  • Branford Town Schools receive $4.3 million in federal funding
  • 5,572 Branford residents receive healthcare through Medicaid
  • 2,090 Branford residents benefit from SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
 

What I've Been Up To


I’ve welcomed many people from Branford to Hartford over the past week. Branford High students visited for CABE Day on the Hill. Leslie and Patrick were here to advocate for healthcare and a bunch of education advocates joined us, virtually and in-person, for a pubic hearing that lasted over 13 hours. I was invited to be a guest on a podcast to reflect on my two year sober anniversary. I was happy to talk about the impact this experience has on my priorities in life and my policy-making.
 


I can always tell it’s Springtime when my weekend schedule begins to pop. I attended the colorful Holi celebration on the Branford green, the grand opening of Yeti & Yak Grocery, a Unity for Autism fundraiser, and the Greater New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade.
 
 

Energy Affordability


CT House and Senate Democrats are working hard to address energy affordability and utility accountability by voting to pass SB 4 out of the Energy & Technology Committee last week.

The goal of this bill is to improve service and reduce costs for electricity ratepayers in the state.
 
 

National Agriculture Week
March 16-22

Honoring the heart and soul of Connecticut - our farmers. Your dedication fuels not just our state’s economy, but the spirit of resilience, sustainability, and community.

Connecticut farms employ 30,000 people and generate $4 billion each year to our economy. This week and all throughout the year, we celebrate our local farms, famers' markets, and all businesses who provide locally grown products!
 


Here are some fantastic local resources and programs to help you connect with our agricultural community:

  • Farmers Markets - Find fresh, locally grown produce near you. (shorturl.at/cgG8P)
  • Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) - Directly support local farms by subscribing to a CSA. (shorturl.at/LnYOR)
  • CT Grown Trail - Explore farms, wineries, and more across Connecticut. (shorturl.at/Nfmev)
  • Connecticut Farm Bureau - A voice for Connecticut agriculture. (cfba.org)
  • Buy CT Grown - Discover and buy local products from Connecticut farms.  (buyctgrown.com)

Let’s continue to strengthen our local food systems and support the hardworking individuals who make it all possible!
 
 

Celebrating Women's History Month


Since last year, the number of women in the Connecticut State Legislature has dropped more than 3%.
 
If women make up about half of the population, doesn’t it make sense that they should have an equal voice in decisions that affect their lives? We cannot continue in the wrong direction.

Women bring different perspectives, priorities, and experiences to governance. Diverse leadership and representation lead to more well-rounded policies, which reflect the needs of the entire community and strengthen democracy.

It is very important important to me that I hear from women in the district on legislative issues that affect them so I can represent them as best I can.

 
 

Community Listening Session


THIS SATURDAY, March 22nd from 11:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. I invite you to join me at the Blackstone Library, 758 Main Street, Branford for a Community Listening Session.  

This is a great opportunity to share your concerns and learn more about the work I am doing to address the issues that matter most to our community and state. 

Your voice is important and I want to hear from you!
 
 

Community Events
 
 

 
Presentation Series on Center Cemetery by Jane Peterson Bouley
 
Monday, March 24, 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. at the Blackstone Library. 
 
Local author and Branford town historian, Jane Bouley is holding a discussion highlighting her extensive research and book on Center Cemetery. The presentation is titled “Center Cemetery: Remember them who have spoken to you.” This discussion will include funeral practices, views about death and mourning during the Colonial Period, and its transition after the Revolutionary War. 
 
Her two volume work includes the records and photographs of 470 gravestones in the oldest section of Branford Center Cemetery on Montowese Street.  Publications will be available for sale or can be ordered and will benefit the Branford Center Cemetery Association.
 
This event is free, click here to register online or call (203) 488-4828, members can also RSVP to programs@branfordhistoricalsociety.org.