Join Me For Coffee Tomorrow & New E-Bike Regulations

August 19, 2025
I can't wait to see you at my first coffee conversation tomorrow in Wilton where we can sit down, connect, and talk about how to make our community even stronger. Please read below for all the dates, times, and locations. 
 
One of our topics will likely be e-bikes. I've been hearing many of your questions and concerns from how e-bike rules work, to keeping kids safe, to your own close calls with riders on the streets. I'll dig deeper into how new regulations are designed to improve safety for everyone. 

You have also shared your frustration with the ongoing construction, which is creating a hassle on our local roads. From having trouble getting out of your driveway to not receiving deliveries, it has been a challenge. Please let me know if you are experiencing any issues. Thankfully, Wilton Police addressed the sign that was blocking a lane at Belden Hill and New Canaan Roads, so no one gets stuck in the intersection.

In Hartford, the 2025 session may be complete, but my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and I are united and working diligently. The Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committee joined the Appropriations and Public Health Committees for a public hearing to approve funding allocated for LIHEAP, a program helping low-income families with energy assistance.

Additionally, I was proud to stand by the governor as he signed an important gun safety bill into law this month. Keep scrolling to learn how this legislation will increase public safety across Connecticut.

Stay tuned for more information on my Facebook and Instagram accounts. I always look forward to hearing from you with any questions and ideas for our towns and state. Please reach out anytime by email at Savet.Constantine@cga.ct.gov.

It's a privilege to represent you.

 

Join Me for Coffee and a Conversation

Join me tomorrow from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. at CT Coffee in Wilton for the first of three Coffee & Conversation events this season. We will discuss the legislation we passed this year, what's still on the agenda for 2026, and most importantly hear your ideas to improve our community.

These informal gatherings are your opportunity to share thoughts, propose solutions, and help shape the work I bring to the Capitol. I proudly host these events to keep our dialogue open and community's voice strong.

Stop in for a cup of coffee and a great conversation about how we can keep moving Connecticut forward together. I look forward to seeing you.
 

Gun Safety Bill Signed Into Law

Governor Ned Lamont signed a bill into law, introducing new measures aimed at reducing gun violence and increasing accountability within the firearm industry. It allows civil lawsuits against gun industry members who fail to act responsibly and strengthens firearm permit laws.
The new law will require manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to implement and enforce reasonable controls to prevent the sale of guns to those who are prohibited by law from possessing guns and those who are at risk of self-harm or illegal use. 

Other key provisions of the bill include:


Closing permit loopholes:

  • Out-of-state convictions: Individuals convicted of crimes in other states that would be disqualifying in Connecticut are now also ineligible for firearm permits in the state
  • Applies to convictions within the past 8 years

Age restriction expansion:

  • The prohibition on selling certain semi-automatic rifles to individuals under 21 now extends to private sales, not just sales by licensed dealers

Connecticut is recognized as having some of the strongest gun laws in the U.S., and this bill is seen as a significant step toward enhanced public safety and industry accountability.
 

New E-Bike Regulations

New regulations will take effect for some electric bikes, or e-bikes, on October 1. The new law pertains to e-bikes without pedals and with batteries over 750 watts. They will be classified as motor-driven cycles and require a driver's license to operate them. E-bikes exceeding 3,500 watts will require registration and insurance, like motorcycles.

While you may see more e-bikes on the road, doctors are warning they do come with some risk. Connecticut Children's Medical Center treated 25 e-bike injuries in May and June compared to three in the same time frame last year.

Here’s what you need to know about riding e-bikes in Connecticut:

  • Speed limits matter: Class 2 e-bikes (the ones with a throttle) are capped at 20 mph. Class 3 models can go up to 28 mph—but only if they’re not throttle-powered
  • No passengers unless built for two: Most e-bikes aren’t designed for a second rider
  • Stay off the sidewalk: Unless otherwise posted, e-bikes are considered vehicles. They belong on the road, in the right lane
  • New in 2025: Class 1 e-bikes are now allowed on bikes and multi-use trails statewide, unless a town says otherwise.
 

Back-To-School Deals for Sales Tax-Free Week

Connecticut's annual Sales Tax-Free Week is underway and runs through Saturday, August 23. It provides a chance to save money, whether it is taking the kids back-to-school shopping or treating yourself or your loved ones. 

Highlights of Sales Tax-Free Week include:

  • Sales or purchases of certain clothing or footwear costing less than $100 per item are exempt from Connecticut's 6.35% sales tax.
  • Sales Tax-Free Week applies to purchases made in-store, online, mail-order, and over the phone.
  • This special exemption applies to purchases made from retailers located in Connecticut as well as from online retailers.

CLICK HERE for Frequently Asked Questions About Sales Tax-Free Week. 
Exempt & Taxable Items During Sales Tax-Free Week
 

Upgrades to Traffic Control Signals

The state is developing plans to replace traffic control signal equipment in several communities including Wilton. Crews plan to upgrade pedestrian control features (countdown pedestrian indications, accessible push buttons, sidewalk ramps, and sidewalk connections) to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety.
The upgrades affect the following intersections:

  • Route 7 at Gateway Shopping Center
  • Route 7 at Kent Road
  • Route 7 at Kennsett Avenue
  • Route 7 at 50/59 Danbury Road
  • Route 7 at Grumman Hill Road

The design plans are expected to be completed in May 2027 with construction anticipated to start in the spring of 2028.