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I hope your summer is going well - I've been happy to spend some much-needed time with my little family, as well as handle my off-session legislative work. The work never ends, even when the session does! I wouldn't have it any other way - I'm so proud to represent the 57th District.
I know things are chaotic at the federal level. I have some information in this newsletter about Medicaid, SNAP, SNAP-Ed, and the 988 LGBTQ+ mental health crisis subnetwork. What makes it difficult is that relevant information one day can become irrelevant - or change drastically - the next day.
As we start the month of August, it's time to start thinking about ... back to school! There are several upcoming events, including a kindergarten readiness camp for Ellington kindergartners, as noted in this e-newsletter.
Have a great weekend,
Jaime |
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In this newsletter, you'll find:
- Legislative Updates
- Recognized by CT League of Conservation Voters as an Environmental Champion!
- Veteran Updates
- Vernon Farmers Market Has Begun
- Junior Members of Warehouse Point FD Complete a Week-Long Training at CT Fire Academy
- Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower in Ellington
- Back-to-School Information
- And More!
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Sunday, August 10, is National Connecticut Day, which recognizes the contributions of the fifth state to join the United States of America on January 9, 1788. Our great state has a rich history that can be explored at The Museum of Connecticut History (231 Capitol Ave., Hartford) and The Connecticut Museum of Culture and History (One Elizabeth Street, Hartford).
You can delve into Connecticut's vibrant cultural scene and plan your next adventure through the official state tourism website, CTvisit.com. |
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| It's just about that time of year again - back-to-school time! This month's article in North Central News focuses on the upcoming sales tax-free week in Connecticut, legislation that was passed that will impact education, and some exciting changes coming for each of the towns in the 57th District. Click HERE to read the article or click the graphic below. |
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I'm happy to share with you that the State Bond Commission approved the Fiscal Year 2026 installment of $25 million for the Crumbling Foundations Assistance Fund. The fund, dispersed by the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company, Inc., helps homeowners faced with replacing their crumbling concrete foundations. CFSIC anticipates receiving the funds - plus $11 million from the Healthy Homes Fund - in the next few months. But with the commitment made, CFSIC can plan for the future.
The message CFSIC wants to convey - APPLY NOW.
To date, just over 1,100 foundations in North Central and Northeastern Connecticut, including approximately 300 in East Windsor, Ellington, and Vernon, have been fully replaced, and claims have been closed, allowing families to return to safe and secure homes.
For more information, click HERE. |
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Last Friday, the State Bond Commission (SBC) took the final steps necessary to give residents some relief on their energy bills.
Before the session ended, the House and Senate passed SB 4, an omnibus energy affordability bill, now Public Act 25-173. This action is a result of bipartisan energy affordability legislation, containing a number of actions to reduce electric bills. The legislation called for bond funding to help alleviate costs to customers.
The SBC approved $155 million in state bond funding that will be used to offset certain public benefits charges on electric bills, delivering consumers some relief on these costs.
Specifically, the $155 million in bond funding will be used to reduce costs associated with:
- Hardship protection programs: $125 million will go towards assisting low-income customers who struggle to pay their electric bills
- Electric vehicle charging programs: $30 million will cover costs related to the state's EV charging infrastructure and integration
The average customer savings are still being calculated; however, it is anticipated that customers will see a reduction of approximately $10 per month in the public benefits portion of their bills, depending on the utility, customer type, and usage. The reductions will likely take effect around September 2025 and continue into 2026. Another round of state bond funding is expected to be released in 2026, which will enable a second round of reductions in public benefits charges to take effect after this initial round expires, enabling these savings to continue into 2027.
These savings come in addition to the 25% reduction in public benefits charges that the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) approved in the May 2025 rate adjustment mechanism, as well as the 13% reduction in supply rates for Eversource customers and 14% reduction in supply rates for United Illuminating customers that went into effect on July 1.
There is still more to do, but this is a good first step.
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Supporting maternal health doesn't begin in the delivery room. It starts with access to care, education, and resources, long before pregnancy.
Connecticut committed to providing access to maternal health services during the 2025 legislative session with the passage of HB 7102 - An Act Concerning Maternal and Infant Health Care, and HB 7214 - An Act Concerning Maternal Health Care.
Both pieces of legislation were signed into law recently.
HB 7102 requires the state to develop a strategic plan to increase the number of birth centers and birthing hospitals in parts of the state with high percentages of Medicaid recipients and limited access to these facilities.
The bill also expands perinatal mental health services and strengthens family support, including programs that aid fathers in supporting maternal health.
HB 7214 enhances hospital transparency and accountability in maternal care by establishing a task force to assess the availability of perinatal mental health care services and identify care gaps. It also calls for an advisory committee to study doula-friendly practices in hospitals.
HB 7102 and HB 7214 affirm Connecticut's dedication to ensuring safe, high-quality care, regardless of race, income, or zip code. |
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A video update on the recent announcement that the SNAP-Ed program has been cut at the federal level and what that means for families who would benefit from it. Click HERE or click the graphic below for the update.
SNAP-Ed is an evidence-based program that helps people make SNAP dollars stretch, teaches them how to shop for and cook healthy meals, and to lead physically active lifestyles. SNAP-Ed initiatives include nutrition education classes, social marketing campaigns, and efforts to improve policies, systems, and the environment of communities.
If you care about making Americans healthy, you care about SNAP-Ed, SNAP, WIC, and school meals - they work and they significantly improve outcomes. People depend on these programs for their health and wellbeing.
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I wanted to give you an update regarding Husky (CT's Medicaid coverage) and SNAP benefits, as it pertains to the passage and signing of the federal budget reconciliation bill, H.R. 1. I'll note that many of these changes do not take effect - and therefore won't be felt - until after the 2026 mid-term elections.
A full explanation can be found on the CT Department of Social Services website HERE. DSS is continuing to analyze the impacts on Connecticut residents, but it's currently estimated that between 100,000 and 200,000 could lose Medicaid coverage and SNAP benefits.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Work Requirement Changes
- No enactment date specified, awaiting federal guidance
- Increases the age limit of Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) subject to work requirements from 54 to 64
- Changes the exemption for adults with children under the age of 18 to adults with children under the age of 14
- Removes exemptions for veterans, those experiencing homelessness, young adults under the age of 24, and those who have aged out of foster care. Limits waivers to towns/areas that have an unemployment rate greater than 10%
Non-citizen Eligibility
- No enactment date specified, awaiting federal guidance
- Restricts non-citizen eligibility to legal permanent residents, Cuban/Haitian entrants, and Compacts of Free Association (COFA) citizens
- Individuals such as refugees, asylees, trafficking victims, humanitarian parolees, and more who currently qualify for SNAP will no longer be eligible due to their immigration status
Medicaid (HUSKY Health)
Work Requirements
- Effective December 31, 2026, states may request an extension of up to 2 years to implement requirements to December 31, 2028
- Adults 19-64 will be required to engage in at least 80 hours per month of work or community engagement to remain eligible for Medicaid
- Acceptable activities to meet the requirement:
- Monthly income that is at least 80 times the federal hourly minimum wage (currently $7.25), or any of the following:
- At least 80 hours per month of work, or
- At least 80 hours per month of community service, or
- At least 80 hours per month of qualified work or training program participation, or
- Enrolled at least half-time in an education program, or
- Any combination of the above totaling at least 80 hours per month
- Provides exemptions from the work requirement for:
- Pregnant and postpartum individuals
- Foster and former foster youth
- Indians/Urban Indians
- Veterans with rated disabilities
- Medically frail individuals (e.g. blind, disabled, children with serious emotional disturbances, adults with serious mental illness, chronic substance use disorders, serious and complex medical conditions)
- Individuals with alcohol use disorder and substance use disorder
- Individuals already meeting work requirements for SNAP and/or TANF
- Parents and caregivers of a dependent child aged 13 and under or an individual with a disability
- Individuals recently released from incarceration for 90 days post-release
- Individuals with a short-term hardship waiver
Non-citizen eligibility
- Effective October 1, 2026
- Restricts non-citizen eligibility to legal permanent residents, Cuban/Haitian entrants, and Compacts of Free Association (COFA) citizens
- Individuals such as refugees, asylees, trafficking victims, humanitarian parolees, and more who currently qualify for HUSKY Health will no longer be eligible due to their immigration status
To read more about the cuts to SNAP and Medicaid, click HERE.
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Speaking of Medicaid, on July 30, we celebrated 60 years of Medicaid. This program has transformed American healthcare over the past six decades. Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of children and families across the country, and for almost one-third of Connecticut residents. This program provides access to essential health services to our most vulnerable communities. Let's celebrate this milestone and do what we can to support Medicaid services while they are under attack by the Trump Administration.
To honor 60 years of Medicaid, Connecticut Children's Medical Center created a list of 60 ways Medicaid continues to promote health, dignity, and opportunity for everyone. Click HERE to read more. |
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As you read this, know that we're expecting to receive more information on how to help support these families.
988 Service Update and Resources through DMHAS
The federal government cut off funding to the 988 LGBTQ+ mental health crisis subnetwork of providers effective July 17. Going forward, all calls previously routed to that subnetwork will instead be routed to the 988 center for the caller's state.
United Way of CT's team is ready to serve these callers with respect and empathy expressed with every caller, on every one of the service lines, every day.
Vibrant Emotional Health, the national administrator of the 988 network, reports that in FY 2025, the LGBTQ+ 988 subnetwork received 326 calls and 143 text/chats per month from Connecticut. While UWCT did not anticipate this additional volume, the 988 team is well-positioned to provide support to these additional contacts.
The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Resources informed UWCT that additional funding was secured in the past legislative session to expand 988 CT capacity so UWCT can continue to meet demand for this service. Fortunately, this funding was secured in advance of what would have created a crisis for the UWCT 988 service.
The UWCT 988 team will continue to provide Connecticut residents with one of the highest levels of performance for 988 contact centers in the nation. UWCT consistently ranks among the top three 988 centers, answering 97% of calls each month in under 5 seconds. A highly-trained team of specialists gives each caller individualized support and referrals, including connection to mobile crisis intervention services when needed. Less than 1% of callers are referred to 911 for police or ambulance response - about half the national average.
211 Youth Mobile Crisis Phone Services and Resources through DCF
Per the terms of the UWCT contract with the Department of Children and Families, youth mental health crisis callers are directed to call 211 to engage with youth mobile crisis services. UWCT is facing a significant current-year resource deficit for that service. This means that for these crisis callers, hold times will be consistently much longer than for 988. UWCT continues to operate this service 24/7, although the current contract funding is insufficient to support 24/7 operations. UWCT is advocating urgently with DCF for additional funding for this service - a minimum of an additional $320,000 to support minimal staffing 24/7 service. |
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I'm happy to share with you that I've been named an Environmental Champion and scored 92% on the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters scorecard.
As an Environmental Champion, I'm recognized for helping lead the charge on critical legislation to reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and promote clean energy solutions.
I'm also proud of my 92% environmental score on bills that were important for the environment, including the energy bill, climate resiliency, environmental rights, invasive plants, climate change, and food waste.
You can read the full CTLCV report HERE. |
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Governor Lamont signed legislation establishing a range of new incentives and protections for farm owners in the state.
Among the provisions:
- 20% tax credit for “farm investment property”
- Crop loss reimbursement
- Drone regulations to boost innovation
- Support for shellfish, agritourism, and more
- Expanding land access grants
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Governor Lamont signed legislation that puts patients first and holds insurance companies accountable.
Here’s what it does:
- Caps excessive premium hikes. Allows the Connecticut Insurance Department to limit rate increases for insurers that have a track record of hiking costs.
- Enforces mental health parity - with real consequences. Insurers must treat mental health like physical health, and those who don’t comply can face fines up to $625,000 and must publicly report how they’re doing.
- Ends harmful “step therapy” delays. Patients with MS, rheumatoid arthritis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression will no longer be forced to try cheaper meds first while their condition worsens, and trial periods are also cut from 60 to 30 days
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Since the state’s open space program began in 1998, more than 48,000 acres of publicly accessible land have been protected. It’s great to see this round of funding, $14.3 million to protect 2,270 acres of open space, will continue to improve the quality of life in Connecticut and provide beautiful outdoor spaces for all of our residents to enjoy.
Among the projects is one in Vernon!
Project Name: Vernon Community Giving Garden
Grant Amount: $21,682.20
Vernon will utilize funding to construct a community garden and greenspace on an undeveloped parcel at 8 Maple Street. The site will feature accessible pathways, raised beds for native plantings, benches, and pollinator gardens |
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Nomination packages for the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame, Class of 2025, are currently being accepted.
If you know a veteran who has served their country honorably and then continued to serve veterans, veteran families, and their communities at large through advocacy, volunteerism, civic duty, or other forms of charitable work, then consider nominating them for the CT Veterans Hall of Fame.
The Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame was established to increase awareness of the lifetime contributions of Veterans after completion of honorable military service. The Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame is not a military hall of fame; instead, it seeks to recognize veterans for their countless contributions to society after their service.
Nomination packages can be found HERE and are due by September 15. |
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(Applicable for East Windsor residents) House of Heroes is a veteran’s non-profit that helps Veterans and/or their spouses with simple home repairs, free of charge. They are currently in search of veterans within the Hartford County area for service projects over the next few months.
If you know of a veteran who could use this assistance, you're encouraged to apply as their sponsor at hohct.org/veterans |
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Ellington Human Services invites you to attend the August Veterans Coffeehouse with August guest speaker, Tim R.E. Keeney - a veteran, attorney, and former judge.
Join this informative session on the probate process and how to plan to protect your loved ones. Learn what to expect, common costs, and how to make the process as smooth as possible. |
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| The Vernon Farmer's Market will take place at Henry Park Pavilion on August 14 and 21 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Free transportation is available through HVCC. |
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Congratulations to two junior members of the Warehouse Point Fire Department for completing a week of training at the Connecticut Fire Academy!
They spent a week at the CFA learning the fundamentals of firefighting, gaining hands-on experience, while representing East Windsor with pride. |
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| Join Warehouse Point Library for a special Arabic Story Time, where children can enjoy engaging stories, songs, and fun - in Arabic and English. It's a wonderful way to celebrate language and culture together. There are two options this month: August 11 at 3 p.m., and August 23 at 10:30 a.m. Register online HERE. |
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Join the Ellington Trails Committee and the Hall Memorial Library and spend a night gazing at the moon, stars, and meteors, on August 12.
Feel free to bring your telescope! No telescope? No problem! The Astronomy Society of Connecticut, as well as the library, will provide theirs for viewing.
Bring a chair or blanket, bug spray, and a low-intensity flashlight.
In the event of rain, the program will be cancelled.
Held at Pinney Street Fields, 63 Pinney St., Ellington |
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DNA, Crime, & Law Enforcement
Tuesday, August 19
5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
McKnight Community Room at Hall Memorial Library
How is DNA used to solve crimes - and what are the ethical concerns? Join Gillian McNeil, genetics specialist with Harvard Medical School’s PGED program, for a compelling look into how law enforcement uses genetic information to protect the public while navigating issues of privacy and consent.
- Explore real-life true crime cases
- Discuss the ethics of DNA in criminal justice
- Great for fans of science, law, and true crime
Content includes examples of violent crimes and may not be appropriate for all participants.
You can register HERE.
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| From Warehouse Point Library: August is "Food for Fines Month" at the library. The library is collecting non-perishable food items for the local food pantry. Your donations can make a big difference for neighbors in need. |
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| The Warehouse Point Fire Department's junior firefighters will host a car wash on August 24. Head to 89 Bridge Street Fire Station 138 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. |
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| From Ellington Human Services: The September deadline for this program will be here before we know it! If you or someone you know might qualify, call to set up an appointment. 860-870-3128 |
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Do you, or someone you know, need assistance with tech? From social media, to email and basic computer instruction, you can now book appointments with Rockville Public Library's tech librarian!
You can make an appointment today by calling the library or on RPL's website. |
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The Vernon Police Department has been made aware of a recent phone scam involving someone falsely claiming to be a Vernon police officer. The caller tells individuals there is an arrest warrant for missing jury duty and may demand personal information or payment.
This is a scam. It is not real.
If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and do not provide any personal or financial information.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Vernon Police Department at 860-872-9126. |
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And another scam you may have already seen hit your text messages - scammers are sending text messages making absurd claims about everything from outstanding taxes to traffic violations.
The Town of Vernon wants you to be aware. Please alert your friends and relatives. Don't fall for the scam.
The Connecticut DMV will NEVER contact you by text message. |
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| Arts Center East's annual Holiday Artisan Craft Fair is coming up November 13-23. Deadline for submissions is September 5. Applications and info is available on the Arts Center East website. |
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From the Hockanum Valley Community Council (HVCC): Help give students a strong start to the school year by donating supplies at the School Supply Drive at Staples in Vernon (Tri-City Plaza).
Collecting donations:
Saturday, August 9: 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 16: 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
HVCC is looking for: backpacks, pencils, notebooks, glue sticks, notebooks, folders, and more. |
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*Open to Vernon, Ellington, and Tolland Residents Only*
Cornerstone Foundation, Inc. is dedicated to helping supplement your children's back-to-school wardrobe. Our goal is for students to feel good about themselves and begin the school year with confidence and excitement. There’s no cost, but supplies are limited.
What to Expect:
Clothing
Footwear
Accessories
Hygiene products (Middle and High School Only)
*Students are required to attend to select their clothing and try on footwear. Together, we can provide your children's back-to-school attire, preparing them for a successful school year.
More information and sign-ups can be found HERE. |
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| East Windsor Soccer Club is looking for boys and girls in grades 2, 3, 4, and 5 to fill rosters for travel soccer! Typically, there are 6 games a season, and travel is generally limited to surrounding towns. Practices are two days a week. Registration covers both Fall AND Spring sessions. If your child has experience with soccer or a desire to learn, sign up today! |
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Ellington Human Services' Back to School Program is underway, and staff are working hard to make sure every student starts the year with the supplies they need. Human Services is accepting donations, and if you'd like to help, you can shop the Amazon Wishlist or contact Human Services directly to get involved.
Amazon List
Ellington Human Services: 31 Arbor Way, Ellington, 860-870-3128
Mondays: 8-6:30
Tuesdays-Thursdays: 8-4:30
Fridays: Closed |
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Ellington Youth Services presents: "Ready, Set, Kindergarten," a kindergarten readiness camp for all three elementary schools in town.
Remaining sessions (Crystal Lake has started already):
Center School - August 11-15
Windermere School - August 11-15
Each session is from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the registration fee is $75.
For more information:
Visit the Ellington Youth Services website
Email: jmaitland@ellington-ct.gov
Call: 860-870-3130 |
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| Need a hand with clothing for kids? Contact Vernon Social Services. |
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| RHS Freshman Orientation will take place at Rockville High School on Thursday, August 14, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. You can click HERE, click the graphic below, or use the QR code on the flyer to sign up. |
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| The Ellington Knights are excited to welcome the Class of 2029 with Link Crew Orientation on Friday, August 22, at 8 am. This event is for students only. |
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Windermere School PTO wants you to save the date of September 30, at 6:30 p.m.
Attend an informational meeting on social media and technology. The event is for adults only, but babysitting is being offered by Ellington Youth Services if you want to attend and need childcare! |
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The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) announced the next round of Ignite and Child Care Business Grant Programs.
The Ignite Grant Program is designed to help women-owned businesses grow. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for 2 or more years and have revenues between $25K and $2 million. The application period for Ignite grants runs through September 16. You can find additional information on Ignite here.
The Child Care Business Opportunity Fund, offered in partnership with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC), provides grants of up to $25,000 to qualified licensed and aspiring child care businesses. The program offers grants targeting different stages of business, from start-ups to those ready to expand. The application period for Child Care Business grants runs through August 31. You can find more information on the Child Care Business Opportunity Fund grants here.
Information sessions for both grant programs are scheduled throughout the application periods. These sessions will help applicants understand the grant requirements and provide an opportunity for those interested to ask questions about the grants. Interested applicants can register for a live information session here. |
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Attention Future Educators in Connecticut!
The Aspiring Educators Scholarship Program, established by the Connecticut General Assembly and administered by the CT State Department of Education (CSDE), is now open for applications!
This scholarship supports students who:
- Graduated from a public high school in an Alliance District
- Are enrolled - or will soon enroll - in a teacher preparation program at a four-year college or university
- Are in good academic standing
- Meet any additional CSDE eligibility requirements
Up to $10,000 per year is available for eligible students, including:
- High school seniors planning to begin a teacher prep program this fall
- Undergraduate or graduate students already enrolled in an approved program
Don’t miss this opportunity to get financial support as you prepare to inspire the next generation of learners!
Apply now and take the next step toward becoming an educator. Apply HERE.
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Fresh, local, and healthy – all within reach!
The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is available! Eligible seniors can receive vouchers to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs from certified local farmers.
This is a great way to eat well, support Connecticut farms, and stretch your food budget.
You can learn more about eligibility, participating locations, and how to use your vouchers HERE. |
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An important message from Connecticut Fish and Wildlife: The adult flying stage of the invasive spotted lanternfly is underway. This is one insect we do not want to see in Connecticut, but it has already established itself in some parts of the state (New Haven and Fairfield Counties). It is potentially damaging to many forest trees and fruit crops, and it is especially threatening to grapes and vineyards.
If you see this very unique and distinct insect in Hartford, Middlesex, Tolland, Litchfield, Windham, or New London Counties, please report it online HERE. Do not move any wood, vegetation, or live insects from the site.
For more information on the spotted lanternfly (SLF), click HERE. |
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