Weekly Legislative Update 03/06

March 7, 2025


 
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Dear Neighbor,

It was another exciting week at the Capitol as committee meetings and public hearings are taking place and the House was back in Session on Wednesday, March 5th where

 I was proud to vote in favor restoring the $40 Million dollars in Special Education, funding for nonprofits immediately affected by the President’s executive orders, the 2025-2030 Conservation and Development Plan and on Judicial and Executive nominations. It is always an honor to continue to serve our community and to be able to have critical conversations with my colleagues about the work we are doing to benefit residents across the state.

I also had the privilege of speaking on the House floor to wish Bristol's Dick Fitz a Happy Birthday. Dick turned 100 this week and is a World War II Veteran. Thank you Dick for your remarkable service and continued dedication to our community.

 
March is Women's History Month, a time to honor the remarkable contributions women have made to our nation's history. From those who fought for equal rights and the right to vote to the leaders shaping our future today, women have played a key role in every aspect of society. Their achievements remind us of the progress we've made and the work that still needs to be done.

As your state representative, I am committed to supporting policies that promote equality, opportunity, and empowerment for all women. Let's take this month to celebrate all the women in our lives and recommit to building a future where all women and girls can thrive.

 
Affordable and accessible childcare is essential for Connecticut families and businesses to thrive. H.B. 5003, a top legislative priority for House Democrats this session, will expedite funding for families, attract and retain childcare educators, and enhance both new and existing childcare facilities.

This proposal builds upon Public Act 24-91, passed unanimously last year, and signed by the Governor, which established the Early Childhood Care and Education Fund. Investing in early childhood care and education produces better educational, health, social, and economic outcomes, driving increased revenue while reducing the need for costly spending.

Connecticut is home to approximately 181,000 children under the age of five, with 73% of these young children receiving care outside the home while their parents work.

By providing targeted funding and expanding access to childcare, H.B. 5003 will put more money back into our economy by opening new opportunities for stay-at-home parents to re-enter the workforce. This is not just an investment in childcare—it is an investment in the children of Connecticut and the prosperity of our state.
 
If you are a Connecticut resident who has been fired or put on unpaid administrative leave from your job with the federal government, please know this…CONNECTICUT HAS YOUR BACK.
 
The federal government may have turned its back on you, but Connecticut appreciates your contributions and employers here are eager to benefit from your expertise.
 
The Connecticut Department of Labor has brought together several programs and services specifically designed to assist you during this time.
 
Displaced federal workers and contractors can find more information on the CTDOL homepage at portal.ct.gov/dol.
 
The City of Bristol is celebrating its 33rd Annual Bristol Youth and Prevention Leaders (B.E.S.T) Service Recognition Day on May 7, 2025 at 6:00pm at Muzzy Field. The Mayor, Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services staff, Best for Bristol Coalition and the Bristol Youth Commission will be hosting a ceremony recognizing Bristol youth who have given exceptional service to their community. Nominations will be accepted for any Bristol youth and/or youth group that have made a meaningful contribution to their school, a service agency, and/or the community.

Nominations must be filled out by an adult who supervised or benefited from the service. Please be sure to fill out the application completely. This is an award of distinction; the description of the contributions made by the youth or youth group must be clear and quantifiable.

  The deadline for nominations is no later than 4:30 p.m. on March 28, 2025.
Click Here for More Information and to Apply
 
Enjoy your weekend!

Sincerely,

Mary Fortier
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