Legislative Update February 23

February 23, 2024

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Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Last we allocated an additional $17 million in funds to assist with cold weather heating. This means that many individuals and families who rely on programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or Operation Fuel will now have the resources they need to keep their homes warm during the winter season.

As your state representative, it's my responsibility to advocate for the well-being of my constituents. This funding ensures that none of our neighbors have to make the difficult choice between paying their expenses or enduring freezing temperatures.

I am fully committed to improving the safety and overall quality of life for all residents, and I will continue to do so as we navigate through this legislative session.

Stamford Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast

I wanted to share a brief update with you following my recent attendance at the Stamford Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast. This event offered a valuable opportunity to engage with local business leaders, community members, and fellow elected officials in meaningful discussions about the economic growth and development of our city.

It's always great to connect with those who are as passionate about Stamford's prosperity as I am. Together, we're working toward creating a vibrant future for our community!

Stamford Veterans Resource Center One-Year Anniversary

It was a momentous occasion as we celebrated the first anniversary of the Stamford Veterans Resource Center. Over the past year, it has played a vital role in offering a wide range of resources and services to numerous Stamford veterans. These include complimentary blood pressure screenings, housing and food assistance, medical aid and vaccinations, mental health support, essential hygiene, and cold weather necessities, as well as informative workshops on various topics.

The Stamford Veterans Resource Center aims to ensure that veterans are well-informed about the state and federal services available to them as a result of their courageous service to our nation.

Click Here for News 12's Coverage of the Event

Senior Healthcare Forum

Comptroller Sean Scanlong recently visited Stamford for a Senior Healthcare Forum, where he discussed Connecticut's new prescription drug discount program, ArrayRx. By joining ArrayRx, you can save up to 80% on all FDA-approved prescriptions, and there are discounts available for select over-the-counter products as well. It only takes a minute to enroll, and participation in the program is completely free.

Affordable pricing for prescription drugs offers numerous benefits, such as increased availability of life-saving medications, enhanced individual health outcomes, boosted public health, and improved quality of life. Sign up or learn more about ArrayRx here.

Husky 4 Immigrants

Last week, Husky 4 Immigrants held a press conference. Although I couldn't attend, I was able to talk with some advocates afterward to reiterate my support for expanding healthcare coverage to all individuals, regardless of immigration status. Denying healthcare based on someone's immigration status is unjust; access to healthcare is a fundamental right for everyone.

Access to healthcare is essential not just for children and their families but also for the overall well-being of our state. Currently, undocumented children in Connecticut can receive HUSKY insurance until the age of 15. However, it's important to remember that health concerns can affect children of all ages. To ensure every child in our state has the opportunity to thrive, it's crucial to provide them with access to health insurance and preventative care.

Roadwork on I-95 Stamford

Overnight construction has commenced on I-95 in both directions this week. The work is taking place between Exit 8 and Exit 5 in Stamford, with an expected completion date of Saturday, November 9th, 2024.

Northbound lanes will be closed from 8:00 PM - 6:00 AM, while southbound lanes will be closed from 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM. During this time, crews will be constructing new auxiliary lanes, resurfacing the road, and implementing safety improvements on I-95.

Office of Dyslexia and Reading Disabilities Draft Strategic Plan

The Office of Dyslexia and Reading Disabilities (ODRD) is seeking public comment on its Draft Strategic Plan. To submit your thoughts, please click here. Comments will be accepted until 5:00 PM on Monday, February 26th.

If the public comment form does not accommodate the breadth of that which you wish to share, please email your comments to Aimee Gauvin, Administrative Assistant to the ODRD.

Stamford Downtown Winter Restaurant Weeks

Don't forget that Stamford Downtown Restaurant Weeks will continue until Sunday, March 3rd! With more than 30 restaurants participating, this is a great way to support local businesses.

To learn more about Winter Restaurant Weeks and to see a full list of the participating restaurants, please click here.

If you have any issues, concerns, or feedback, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to email me directly or contact my office at (860) 240-8585.

Sincerely,