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Dear Neighbor,
This is my State Capitol update for the week of April 16.
Click the image below to view my video on this week’s events. |
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Here’s a list of today’s topics:
- Session Recap. Click here.
- Dental Services in Torrington. Click here.
- Renters Rebate Program is Now Open. Click here.
- Northwest Corner Events. Click here.
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The House was in session last week. We passed several bills, including:
HB 5157 - AN ACT CONCERNING THE TIRE STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM
HB 5157 strengthens Connecticut’s tire disposal program by requiring retail stores to fully participate by July 1, 2027. This move aims to reduce illegal dumping and prevent the buildup of old tires in our neighborhoods, a persistent source of blight and environmental harm.
HB 5406 - AN ACT CONCERNING ASSORTED MEASURES RECOGNIZING AND HONORING THE HEROISM OF VETERANS AND MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES AND MAKING VARIOUS REVISIONS TO STATUTES RELATED TO VETERANS' AND MILITARY AFFAIRS
HB 5406, also known as the Connecticut Hero Act, strengthens and expands support for Connecticut veterans by establishing a state-run dental care program for eligible veterans, expanding eligibility for state military medals, and more!
These updates improve access to critical services, strengthen protections, and ensure greater recognition for the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
We also passed HB 5039, which sets up rules for state agencies to monitor funds given to specific entities, ensuring proper use of state tax dollars. |
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| We are also considering some bills that will protect our residents from ICE. |
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| Community Health & Wellness Center (CHWC) will reinstate dental services at its Torrington Health Center beginning April 20 after a year-long suspension due to Medicaid underfunding. The program returns following a statewide agreement providing $80 million in reimbursement adjustments for Federally Qualified Health Centers over three years. Led by Dr. Ting Luo, services will include routine exams, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and more, with referrals available for complex procedures. CHWC will accept most major insurances, including Medicaid, with additional providers expected soon, and offers sliding-scale assistance for eligible patients. |
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Connecticut’s Renters’ Rebate Program is now open to eligible renters who are elderly or living with a disability and meet certain income requirements.
Qualified applicants may receive rebates of up to $900 for married couples and $700 for single individuals. The rebate amount is determined using a graduated income scale, as well as the total rent and utility payments (excluding telephone) made during the previous calendar year.
Applications must be submitted through your local municipality’s assessor’s office or a designated social service agency. The application period is now open and will run through September 30. Please note that no extensions are permitted, and all applications must be received by the municipality no later than September 30.
Click here for more information about eligibility requirements and how to apply. |
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Crescendo will present “Stepping into Song” this April, featuring the U.S. premiere of internationally renowned composer Martín Palmeri’s A Jewish Cantata, alongside his acclaimed Misa a Buenos Aires (Misatango). The performances, conducted in part by Palmeri himself, bring together a large collaborative ensemble of musicians and vocalists for a unique cross-cultural experience blending sacred choral traditions with tango influences.
The program also includes community tango workshops and will take place April 25 in Lakeville, CT and April 26 in Great Barrington, MA. This event highlights regional arts collaboration and is supported in part by the Connecticut Office of the Arts. |
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Crescendo – Lakeville's Chorus and Music
Crescendo will conclude the second half of its 22nd season with a series of spring performances and community events across the region. Highlights include:
- Two choral concerts featuring tango-style repertoire, including two U.S. premieres, on April 25 & 26
- “Baroque Brilliance: Bach’s Motets” concerts on May 30 & 31
- A solo harpsichord recital honoring Wanda Landowska on June 13
A limited number of free tickets are available for community members upon request. They can be requested by writing to crescendo@crescendomusic.org.
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The annual Shane Kinsella Memorial Run/Walk will be held on April 25. This year’s event features a 5K run and a 2-mile walk, with a kids’ run at 10:15 AM and the main race kicking off at 11:00 AM.
Proceeds support the SMK Fund, which helps local children participate in sports, attend camps, and access other enriching opportunities.
Click here to learn more.
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The 41st annual Sharon Classic Road Race will be held on Saturday, May 2. This race features a 5.3-mile run/walk, plus kids’ races, and a lively family festival. Festivities begin at 9:00 AM. Proceeds support the Sharon Day Care Center.
Click here to learn more and register. |
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| Click here or the flyer above to register. |
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It is my honor to represent our district. I look forward to hearing from you about the issues raised in this newsletter, or any other topics you think I should know about. You can email me at maria.horn@cga.ct.gov or call me at (860)-240-8585. Thanks for reading, and I wish you a safe weekend.
Click here to forward to forward this email to a friend. |
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Sincerely,
Maria Horn
State Representative |
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