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| Congratulations, workers, the Labor and Public Employees Committee, and thank you, Gov. Lamont, for signing legislation into law today protecting warehouse workers. |
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| As House vice chair of the committee, I want to send a special shout-out to House chair Manny Sanchez for his focus and diligence on doing what's right for warehouse workers in Connecticut. |
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Warehouse Workers (secs 50-57 of SB 298)
Provides greater protections for workers in warehouses and fulfillment centers. This bill ensures quotas do not interfere with employees’ legally mandated meal and bathroom breaks and ensures that workers are presently aware of what quotas they may be subjected to while on the job. Employees experiencing violations of such rights can now recover any costs they may have incurred.
Connecticut becomes the first state in New England to pass Warehouse Worker Protection legislation, and just the sixth nationwide, joining California, New York, Washington, Minnesota, and Oregon.
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On Monday, House Speaker Matt Ritter called a press conference to announce a plan that would boost funding for schools, which has become a priority for us this session. You can read more HERE.
I was asked to share a few words. I was proud to do so. Click on the video below to hear my comments. |
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Thank you all for taking part in our public hearings, whether here on campus or via Zoom. Your voice matters, and it also helps us do our jobs better.
I got in on a public hearing, too, before the Commerce Committee, earlier this month. Click on the video below to hear my comments. |
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Governor Lamont signed SB298 - a sweeping omnibus bill - into law a few days ago, and I want to share some of its highlights.
Part of that bill includes a number of education provisions that passed by a wide margin in the House last year, and unfortunately was not voted on in the Senate.
One part of it improves the state’s practice of crisis response drills to improve students’ physical safety and properly balance their psychological well-being.
While schools must be prepared for an emergency, organizers must ensure these drills are conducted effectively and responsibly |
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Another section creates a state seal of civics education and engagement to be earned on high school diplomas for students who demonstrate civics mastery in the classroom and community engagement.
At a time when civic engagement is alarmingly low in our country, this recognition will encourage students to learn more about the way our government works and the role they play in shaping society.
This seal also sends a powerful message that civics isn't just a class to pass; it's a way to make a difference and give back to your community.
Other key aspects of this bill include:
- Addressing antisemitism in schools
- Adding additional public reporting on student outcomes for our multi-lingual learners
- Providing curriculum on Islamic and Arab Studies
- Phases out the waiver for children under the age of 5 to begin kindergarten early.
- Raising the standard for when a student in pre-K to grade 2 can get an out-of-school suspension
- Requiring same-day notification of any use of restraint or seclusion of a student.
The legislation we passed is an important bill that encourages civic engagement and protects our students' mental health.
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Strengthening and Modernizing Our Elections
We advanced legislation to strengthen and modernize Connecticut’s election laws. These reforms take important steps to protect the integrity, security, and transparency of our democratic process by:
- Safeguarding private voter data
- Requiring that ballots cast during early voting be securely stored in a voting tabulator
- Preventing individuals convicted of election-related crimes from serving as election moderators
These updates reflect a balanced approach: expanding access to the ballot while maintaining strong safeguards to protect public trust.
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Addressing Antisemitism in Our Schools
We also passed education reform legislation responding to rising antisemitism in schools.
The bill establishes a working group that will equip educators with tools and guidance to combat anti-Jewish hate and foster inclusive, respectful learning environments for all students.
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Crack Down on Bottle Redemption Fraud
In addition, we approved legislation targeting bottle redemption fraud, an issue that has grown since Connecticut increased its bottle deposit from five cents to ten cents. Some out-of-state actors have exploited the higher refund value by transporting large quantities of containers into Connecticut, leading to reported losses in the millions for beverage distributors.
The new law addresses this abuse by:
- Increasing fines for violations of the state’s bottle bill
- Requiring redemption centers to record identifying information for anyone redeeming more than 1,000 bottles and cans in a single day
- Granting law enforcement clear authority to pursue out-of-state violators
These changes protect legitimate consumers and small businesses while preserving the integrity of Connecticut’s recycling system.
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Let's 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.
Take some time to explore these meaningful sites and learn more about the women behind them.
Click here to view a list of historic landmarks across Connecticut that are deeply connected to women’s history and the stories that continue to inspire generations today. |
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March is also Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to foster understanding, break down barriers, and celebrate the talents and achievements of people with developmental disabilities.
Disabilities are part of the human experience, and we must promote inclusion at every opportunity.
You can show your support by wearing orange, the official color of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, symbolizing energy and positivity. |
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