WWII Anniversary, Session Updates, Undue Medical Debt, and more

May 23, 2025

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this message finds you and your family doing well! We are in the final few weeks of the legislative session in Hartford. This week, the House was in session on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. With just two weeks until we adjourn, we are doing everything possible to work across the aisle and pass meaningful legislation.

Monday marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. I was honored to attend the Connecticut Living World War II Veterans Recognition Ceremony held at the Connecticut State Armory in Hartford. It was a privilege to speak with and recognize Bristol residents, Dick Fitz, Jim Cleveland, and Joe Caminetti, three American heroes whose courage helped shape the course of the 20th century and preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.

On this 80th anniversary, we pause to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of all our World War II veterans. We owe a debt a gratitude that can never truly be repaid. Their service, resilience, and love of country laid the foundation for the peace and prosperity we enjoy today. Thank you to every World War II veteran. We remember you, we honor you, and we will never forget.

During Thursday's Session, I had the opportunity to meet with the Boys & Girls Club of Bristol's Youth of the Year, Anneti, along with other Youth of the Year recipients from Clubs across Connecticut. At age 4, Anneti moved to Bristol with her family from Puerto Rico and faced many societal challenges before finding support with the Boys & Girls Club of Bristol. Now, she is a mentor to younger kids at the Club, teaching them about positive choices and self-confidence. I was honored to meet with Anneti, learn about her personal story, and discuss her advocacy for youth empowerment.

Read more about Anneti's story here

House Democrats passed legislation on Monday that saves money for EVERY EMPLOYER in the state since they all faced skyrocketing workers’ compensation claims costs after a CT Supreme Court ruling.

This legislation was a top priority of businesses and municipalities, saving them millions of dollars. Business advocates estimate workers’ compensation costs would have increased by 265% if no action had been taken.

The House approved a proposal to enact a 2.5% raise and a step increase for the Connecticut State Police. Troopers deserve salaries that reflect the essential work they provide to our state and can help recruit more officers to serve. There is a concern for public safety since we've seen a 25% decline in staffing prior to 2010.

The Senate is expected to support the deal, which the Governor brokered with the Connecticut State Police Union in April.

📢 Medical debt relief is coming to more than 100,000 Connecticut residents!

I’m proud to share that the second round of medical debt relief is on the way. It is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and made possible through our partnership with the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt.

What to expect:
Keep an eye out for an official letter from Undue Medical Debt.
THIS IS NOT JUNK MAIL! There is no application process, no catch, just relief.

Who qualifies?
✅ Individuals earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level
✅ Those whose medical debt equals 5% or more of annual income

This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to health equity, financial relief, and a more compassionate healthcare system for all Connecticut residents. You can view a sample of what this letter looks like here.