Weekly Legislative Update 03/21

March 21, 2025

Dear Neighbor,

I hope this message finds you and your family doing well and enjoying the first few days of spring! I had another busy week attending events around the Capitol and finishing reviewing bills with my colleagues in our committees. As committee meetings and public hearings wrap up, I continue to talk with my colleagues, advocacy groups, and residents about the issues we need to address this session.

Honoring the heart and soul of Connecticut - our farmers. Your dedication fuels not just our state’s economy, but the spirit of resilience, sustainability, and community. 🚜💚

Here are some fantastic local resources and programs to help you connect with our agricultural community:

🌽 Farmers Markets - Find fresh, locally grown produce near you. (shorturl.at/cgG8P)

🥕 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) - Directly support local farms by subscribing to a CSA. (shorturl.at/LnYOR)

🍎 CT Grown Trail - Explore farms, wineries, and more across Connecticut. (shorturl.at/Nfmev)

🧀 Connecticut Farm Bureau - A voice for Connecticut agriculture. (cfba.org)

🍯 Buy CT Grown - Discover and buy local products from Connecticut farms. (buyctgrown.com)

Let’s continue to strengthen our local food systems and support the hardworking individuals who make it all possible! #AgWeek #CTAg #CTGrown #NoFarmsNoFood

Hundreds of people gathered at the State Capitol in a powerful show of unity, urging the federal government to reject proposed cuts to Medicaid, that would disproportionately hurt low-income children, families, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. The rally was part of a nationwide day of action and brought together a broad coalition of voices including members of our federal delegation, state legislators, healthcare workers, advocates, Medicaid recipients and many other members of the community, all standing in solidarity to protect this vital program.

Passionate speakers underscored the irreplaceable role Medicaid plays in ensuring healthcare access to the American people. They shared personal stories and compelling data, highlighting that Medicaid provides critical health insurance to more than 70 million people including seniors, working families, and children enrolled in the HUSKY program.

Without Medicaid, millions could lose access to life-saving treatments, preventative care, and essential services that support health, well-being, and economic stability. Cuts to Medicaid would not only jeopardize individuals but place greater strain on hospital, healthcare providers, and the broader community. Medicaid is not just a safety net – it’s a lifeline for millions, and protecting it is a moral and economic duty.

As March Madness heats up, here’s a reminder not to get too carried away.

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a nationwide campaign to promote prevention, treatment, and recovery services for problem gamblers.
This year's theme, “Seeking Understanding,” focuses on increasing awareness of problem gambling as a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition.

The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates about 2 million people in the U.S. meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem, while another 4 million to 6 million people experience mild or moderate issues. The cost to the country -- $14 billion annually – is incredibly steep. Yet the ability to place a sports-related bet has never been easier – in most cases just a few clicks on a smartphone.

The lower barriers to place bets and the removal of the social stigma on gambling has had devastating consequences for some. Indeed, one of the most vulnerable demographics to problem gambling are youths. The NCPG and Responsible Play CT cite data that shows more than 75% of college students have gambled in the last year.

There are state and national resources for help.

Responsible Play CT offers information and a toolkit on problem gambling.
The Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling offers trained helpline specialists who connect callers to free, immediate support & treatment options in Connecticut. Its number is 888-789-7777.
The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (860-344-2244) offers problem gambling services.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline is available at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
The NCPG's problem gambling toolkit can be found by clicking here.

This Saturday the Imagine Nation is hosting Science Saturday Day!

Enjoy exploring the Imagine Nation, A Museum Early Learning Center and two hours (9:30-11:30am) of all things physical science! Admission is $10.00 per person over the ages of one. To register, please visit Eventbrite