Early Childhood Education Funding, and more

June 5, 2026



 

View this email in your browser

Dear Neighbor,

June is Pride Month! Let’s celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and reaffirm our commitment to equality, dignity, and opportunity for all. During the 2026 legislative session, we strengthened protections against hate crimes and expanded access to fertility care for LGBTQ+ couples and individuals. While other states have moved backward, Connecticut continues to protect access to care, defend against discrimination, and ensure that everyone can live, love, work, and raise a family with the freedom and respect they deserve.

It was a beautiful day to celebrate Pride in Fairfield with the raising of the Pride flag! Rev. Sarah was powerful, as she is every year, reminding everyone of their inherent worth and value no matter who they love or how they identify. I’m so proud of our town for embracing acceptance and ensuring Fairfield is a welcoming place to all. 

In this week's eblast, you can read about investments in early childhood education, medical debt erasure, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.
 

Historic Investment in the Early Childhood Education Endowment 

I was so proud to see an additional investment of approximately $320 million into Connecticut’s Early Childhood Education Endowment.

Established in 2025 through Public Act 25-93, the endowment serves as a permanent funding source dedicated to strengthening Connecticut’s early childhood education system. This new investment, combined with last year’s initial $300 million commitment, positions Connecticut as a national leader in creating sustainable, long-term solutions that support children, families, educators, and providers.

Beginning in July 2027, eligible families are expected to benefit from no-cost or reduced-cost early childhood education opportunities funded through the endowment. Families enrolled in state-funded child care spaces through the Early Start CT program who earn up to $100,000 annually will be eligible for child care at no cost. For families with incomes above that threshold, out-of-pocket child care expenses will be capped at no more than 7% of household income.

This historic investment reflects Connecticut’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to high-quality early learning opportunities while providing meaningful financial relief for working families and strengthening the early childhood workforce for generations to come.

Click here for more information on the endowment. 
 

Policy and Pints Event 

I hope you will join me and Reps. Keitt and McCarthy Vahey for a Policy and Pints event on Monday, June 15 from 7:30-9pm at Elicit Brewing Co. - Fairfield (111 Black Rock Tpke, Fairfield).

At this event, we will discuss some of the great legislation passed in the 2026 legislative session, our priorities looking forward, and most important, the issues that matter most to you. I hope to see you all there! 
 

Education Commission Appointment 

I'm so happy to share that the Governor has appointed me to his Blue-Ribbon Commission on K-12 Education Funding and Accountability!

The goal of the commission is to deliver a top-to-bottom assessment of how Connecticut funds its public schools. We will look at the current landscape in our state, models that other states follow, the major costs facing our school districts, and strategies with proven successful outcomes.

As House Chair of the Education Committee, it is a top priority that our schools are funded in a smart, sustainable way that sets our children up for success.

The commission held their first meeting yesterday, which you can watch here. 
 

Stop Hate Together: A Community Conversation About Hate Crimes 

A reminder that on Thursday, June 11 from 6:30-8pm, there will be a community conversation about hate crimes at the Board of Education Conference Room 295A/B, 2nd Floor (501 Kings Highway East, Fairfield). 

Featuring First Selectperson Christine Vitale, Fairfield Police Chief Michael Paris, and CT State Police Hate Crimes Investigative Unit and Assistant State's Attorney Stacey Miranda, the event will go into how the Fairfield community is responding to the alarming rise of hate crimes in Connecticut in recent years.

You can learn how hate crimes are identified, reported, and investigated, and learn how you can play a role in preventing them. It is up to us to stand up to hate as a united community, and I would heavily encourage you to attend this event!
 

Additional Medical Debt Erased 

More than 97,000 Connecticut residents can expect to receive letters in the mail beginning this week notifying them that some or all of their medical debt has been eliminated.

Medical debt places a significant financial burden on families in communities across Connecticut. This marks the fourth round of the state's medical debt relief initiative, which provides meaningful assistance to qualifying residents who are struggling to pay outstanding medical bills. Since the program launched in 2024, more than 252,000 Connecticut residents have had over $513 million in medical debt cancelled, helping families regain financial stability and peace of mind.

Residents whose medical debt has been forgiven will receive a letter in an Undue Medical Debt-branded envelope featuring the Connecticut state seal (see image below). These notifications are legitimate and do not require any action on the recipient's part.

Governor Lamont will continue partnering with Undue Medical Debt to provide additional relief throughout this year. To support this effort, the Governor and the Connecticut General Assembly approved legislation making $6.5 million in federal ARPA funding available for the initiative through 2026.

This program continues to demonstrate Connecticut's commitment to easing financial hardship for residents and ensuring that unexpected medical expenses do not become a long-term obstacle to economic security.

Click here to read the full release from the governor's office. 
 

Connecticut Trails Day 

A reminder to celebrate Connecticut Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7! The Connecticut Forest & Park Association is coordinating more than 200 hikes and walks across the state, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore Connecticut’s natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors.
Now in its 33rd year, this beloved tradition brings together thousands of participants to experience Connecticut’s incredible trail network and scenic landscapes. This year’s theme, Explore Where You Live, encourages residents to discover the trails, parks, and open spaces in their own communities.
Events are designed for all ages, abilities, and experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging outdoor adventure or a relaxing, family-friendly walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
To find a hike or walk that interests you anywhere in Connecticut, visit www.trailsday.org.
 

CT Open House Day 2026

Mark your calendar for Connecticut Open House Day on June 13! More than 200 attractions across the state, including museums, arts and cultural venues, historic sites, farms, and restaurants, will offer free or discounted admission and special promotions. It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to discover new destinations and celebrate the rich experiences that make Connecticut such a great and fun place to explore.

Check out CTVisit for a listing of what you can do across the state next Saturday. 
 

Upcoming Local Events 
For Which It Stands...
On view through Saturday, July 25
Fairfield University, Bellarmine Hall Galleries and Walsh Gallery (1073 N. Benson Rd., Fairfield)
Read more here
 

I'm committed to ensuring your voice is heard. Please don't hesitate to call my office at (860) 240-8585 or email me if there's anything I can do for you. Be sure to follow @LeeperForFairfield on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on everything I'm doing at the Capitol.


Sincerely,

Jennifer Leeper
State Representative

Website
Website

Email
Email

Facebook
Facebook

Instagram
Instagram

Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences