Let's Talk Money & Legislative Update

April 17, 2026



The final three weeks of session begin Monday, and from here on out the pace only picks up. The days ahead will be filled with debate, decisions, and votes on many of the bills still moving through the legislature, and I’ll be posting updates on my social media so you can stay informed about what’s under consideration.

I also hope you’ll mark your calendar for a special event next Saturday, when Connecticut Treasurer Erick Russell will be here in town to talk about the state of Connecticut’s finances, where we stand today, and how we are preparing for the future. I’m excited to host this conversation with Senator Ceci Maher and Representative Lucy Dathan, and I hope you’ll join us for what should be an informative and engaging discussion. Bring your questions.

Also, for anyone with an e-bike, please take a moment to review the safety tips below from the Wilton Police Department. If you have a new e-bike rider in the family, be sure to sign up for the library’s information session to get a better understanding of the rules, safety guidance, and best practices.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns. You can always reply directly to this email, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Savet Constantine
State Representative 

 

Let's Talk Money with the CT Treasurer

Join me for a community conversation on Connecticut’s finances and our shared future on Saturday, April 25 at 11:00 a.m. at the Wilton Historical Society.

I’ll be there with Treasurer Erick Russell, Senator Ceci Maher, and Representative Lucy Dathan for an engaging discussion about:

  • Connecticut’s fiscal outlook
  • The status of our pension funds
  • Key programs administered through the Treasurer’s Office and state
  • How we are planning responsibly for the future
  • The impact of federal policies on residents at home

This is an opportunity to better understand where our state stands financially and where we’re headed.

Most importantly, this conversation is about you. We hope you’ll come with questions, concerns, and ideas about the fiscal issues affecting your family, community, and our state.

I hope you’ll join us for this important and timely discussion.
 

Update on Recently Passed House Bills

Last week, we passed a handful of bills on a pair of session days in the House chamber. These proposals now head to the Senate for further action. They include:

  • House Bill 5401 - Streamlining updates to state building and fire safety codes
  • House Bill 5406 - Expanding support and resources for our veterans
  • House Bill 5240 - Key updates for the Department of Developmental Services
  • House Bill 5125 - Increasing transparency and protections in event ticket sales
Conversing with Rep. Lucy Dathan in the House chamber

I’d like to especially highlight a bill that matters to many of us who want to ensure that state government is using our tax dollars responsibly. Rep. Lucy Dathan of New Canaan, co-chair of the Government Oversight Committee, made passage of House Bill 5039 a priority.

What does this bill do? It puts stronger transparency and accountability measures in place for community initiatives funded through the legislative process. HB 5039 also requires a clearer explanation of how funds are intended to be used, adds reporting requirements for recipient organizations, and creates another layer of review if those funds are going to be re-granted elsewhere.

I believe greater transparency is always worthwhile, but we also need a fuller system for managing these initiatives and projects from start to finish. We deserve confidence in how public dollars are spent, and I view this bill as an important first step.
 

Senior Day at the Capitol

My colleagues and I were proud to celebrate Senior Day at the Capitol alongside more than 40 organizations dedicated to supporting older adults and their families. The event highlighted the incredible network of services, advocacy groups, and community partners working every day to ensure our seniors can age with dignity right here in Connecticut.

I am grateful to the Chairwoman of the Aging Committee, Rep. Jane Garibay, for her leadership in organizing this meaningful event and her continued advocacy. It was a pleasure to connect with the many departments and agencies that provide vital services to our seniors and their families.

Advocates also shared valuable resources that I’m pleased to pass along, including:

If you or a loved one could benefit from these resources, I encourage you to reach out to my office, and we would be happy to connect you.

 

Electric Bike Safety

As the weather warms and more e‑bikes return to the roads, the Wilton Police Department (WPD) is reminding families to stay alert to the unique risks younger riders face.

Kids can ride e-bikes up to 20 mph and that speed and sharing a road with cars demands rapid decision‑making, coordination, and traffic‑navigation skills. Here are some WPD guidelines to keep your kids safe on the road. 

  • Decide when your child is truly ready to handle an e‑bike.
  • Ensure they’re wearing a helmet properly.
  • Review the rules of the road with them before allowing they can ride alone.
  • Monitor where, when, and how fast they are riding

Wilton Library is hosting a bike safety seminar for adults and parents at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13 at the Brubeck Room inside Wilton Library. A panel of experts, including members of the WPD, will hold an insightful discussion on visibility, indication of movement, bike choices, new Connecticut e-bike legislation, and why this is all so important. Please consider bringing your child to the presentation and asking questions.
Click here to learn more and register