Dan Gaiewski

Connecticut House Democrats are making targeted, meaningful investments in the people who keep our communities strong — from first responders and veterans to nurses, teachers, and blue-collar workers.

We passed legislation backing those who serve by expanding support for police, firefighters, and veterans. That includes state-backed health insurance for families of fallen volunteer firefighters and state marshals, mortgage assistance for first responders, and stronger recruitment and training efforts. We’re also building on successful partnerships between law enforcement and mental health professionals and creating new tuition assistance opportunities for those serving here at home.

In addition, there are sections in the bill that focus on connecting members of our military and National Guard with workforce reentry programs, job training information, career counseling resources, and more. This section is a great way to welcome back those serving our nation and making sure they are secure and successful back at home. I'm so proud to have helped pass and craft this legislation with Democratic Rep. Jaime Foster, Republican Reps. Mark Anderson, Tim Ackert, and Democratic Sen. Paul Honig

It was a busy week, as the State House of Representatives was in session Monday-Thursday. We passed a number of bills, and you can read about some of them here.

It was great to be back in the House chamber recently with my colleagues. In the coming weeks, the State House and Senate will be meeting much more frequently to give final passage to bills that advanced through committees. Bills that passed through the House and Senate will then be sent to the governor's desk to be signed into law. I will keep you updated on all of the important bills the legislature passes!

Affordability remains a major challenge in our state. Alongside proposals to increase Education Cost Sharing (ECS) funding and ease pressure on local property taxes, several other bills are focused on tackling the broader financial strains that families face every day.

Today, March 27 from 12:30-1:30pm, there will be a Mobile Food Pantry at St. John's Christian Church (346 Shennecossett Rd., Groton). The food pantry will include fresh produce, nonperishables, and other items that will be placed in your trunk, back seat, or truck bed.

No paperwork is required, and you are asked to please not exit your vehicle upon arrival. This is a great and helpful event, and I hope you will take advantage of it!

Last week other New London and Groton leader and I met with DOT Officials to discuss the change in traffic patterns expected so construction can continue on the Gold Star Bridge! The Connecticut Department of Transportation has released two videos going in depth into why the construction is necessary, and want drivers can expect throughout the construction process.

This Friday, March 13 at noon, the Government Administration and Elections Committee will have a public hearing on a bill that studies the ability to request an absentee ballot on the state website for Groton City and other Boroughs across the state.

Currently if you are seeking an absentee ballot in the City of Groton Election, you cannot apply for an absentee ballot online, unlike how you can in municipalities. This study seeks to come up with possible remedies. I firmly believe that all residents should have the ability to request online for an absentee ballot in elections, as it is one of the most convenient and accessible ways to vote.

Whether you agree or disagree, I would love for you to either testify on this bill or submit written testimony.

March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions women have made to our communities, our state, and our nation. Here in Connecticut, countless women have shaped our history through leadership, innovation, advocacy, and perseverance.

While this month offers a special opportunity to reflect, their stories deserve to be honored all year long. From historic homes and museums to landmarks connected to groundbreaking achievements and social movements, our state is rich with places that preserve and share the legacy of women who helped shape Connecticut’s past and future.