House Advances Absentee Voting for All

April 28, 2026

My colleagues and I are working diligently to pass meaningful bills as our legislative deadline approaches. We recently passed a bill expanding absentee voting across Waterbury and the rest of the state. I'll break down how it works. 

The man who represents Puerto Rico in Washington, D.C., recently visited Connecticut. Keep scrolling to find out how our discussion could make a difference. 

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Modernizing & Protecting the Right To Vote
  • Highlighting Barriers to Re-entry
  • Special Visit from Puerto Rican Legislator
  • Earth Day Cleanup
  • Puppies for Adoption at Capitol
 

Modernizing & Protecting the Right To Vote

The House recently passed an important bill to strengthen and protect our democracy, making sure voting in Connecticut stays safe, secure, and accessible to every eligible voter.

After voters overwhelmingly approved the expansion of absentee voting for all in 2024, it was our job to modernize the law and make the process clear. Instead of having to fit into narrow categories to qualify, House Bill 5001 now allows voters to request an absentee ballot for any reason. 

The proposal also protects eligible voters from intimidation by preventing federal officials, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), from being stationed within 250 feet of polling places or election sites. They can only be there with permission from state officials or a court order. Making sure everyone feels safe and confident participating in our elections matters here in a very real way.

With its passage, Connecticut will join 36 other states and Washington, D.C. in allowing any eligible voter to cast an absentee ballot.

The Senate now has until May 6 at midnight to act.
 

Highlighting Barriers to Re-entry

Advocates recently highlighted the significant need for services among individuals who are incarcerated, preparing for release, or currently under community supervision in Connecticut. The 2026 State of Re-entry Report provides a snapshot into the barriers many people face as they work to return to the workforce and rebuild their lives.

In partnership with the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC), Career Resources examined key challenges that impact successful reintegration, including:

  • Access to mental health services
  • Substance use treatment and recovery support
  • Employment opportunities
  • Education and job training
  • Stable and affordable housing

I am grateful to the advocates, service providers, and agency partners who continue working to raise awareness and strengthen pathways to successful re-entry across our state.
 

Special Visit from Puerto Rican Legislator

We had the honor of welcoming Puerto Rico’s resident commissioner, Pablo José Hernández Rivera, to Hartford for a thoughtful discussion with members of the Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus on legislative priorities and shared policy goals.
Commissioner Hernández Rivera serves as Puerto Rico’s only representative in Congress. While he cannot vote on final passage of legislation, he plays a role in introducing bills, voting in committee, and advocating for federal policy affecting the island’s 3 million U.S. citizens.

His visit was noteworthy, given Connecticut’s strong cultural and economic ties to Puerto Rico. We discussed the health needs of the Latino community as well as opportunities from health care to workforce growth that would strengthen both Puerto Rico and Connecticut.

I am grateful to the chair of the Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus, Rep. Minnie Gonzalez, and U.S. Congressman John Larson for helping secure this important visit and their continued leadership in strengthening the bond between Connecticut and Puerto Rico.

 

 

Earth Day Cleanup

It was rewarding to join the community in a citywide cleanup in honor of Earth Day. We rolled up our sleeves, pulled on gloves, filled garbage bags, and got to work. These small acts of service, added up, make an impactful difference across Waterbury.

From parks and sidewalks to neighborhood streets, volunteers of all ages showed up with pride and a shared commitment to keeping our city clean and safe. This type of activism makes our city look more beautiful and strengthens community bonds. It’s a great reminder that we all have a role in protecting our environment.

Thank you to the South End Neighborhood Association, the Waterbury Department of Public Works, and everyone else involved for coming together to make our neighborhoods cleaner.
 

Puppies for Adoption at Capitol

Some days at the Capitol are filled with hearings and votes while others come with wagging tails and puppy kisses. I had the joy of spending a few minutes with one of the adorable pups on Monday.

Thank you to the Connecticut Humane Society for brightening our day with their visit and special guests. The dogs it brought to the Capitol are now up for adoption as they hope to find their forever home.