New Laws, Public Health Collaborative, and more

September 26, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday! I hope that everyone who celebrated had a very happy Rosh Hashanah earlier this week! I wish everyone a year filled with good health, peace, and sweet new beginnings.

In the rest of this week's eblast, you can read about new laws effective Oct. 1, the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.
 

New Laws Effective October 1 

With fall comes cooler weather, changing leaves, and a number of new laws hitting the books. Several measures passed during the 2025 legislative session will take effect on Wednesday, October 1. Below is a brief overview of some of these important changes!

We’ve updated our motorcycle and e-bike laws to reflect our continued efforts to promote public safety and adapt to emerging technologies on our roads.

A new law extends the age for those who are required to wear a helmet on a motorcycle from 18 to 21, and extends the age from 16 to 18 and under for children to wear a helmet while riding bicycles, scooters, and skateboards.

New regulations are also being introduced for certain high-powered electric bikes. Riders of e-bikes without pedals and equipped with batteries over 750 watts will now need a valid driver’s license to operate them. Additionally, e-bikes with batteries over 3,500 watts will require registration and insurance, similar to motorcycles.

Another measure cracks down on street takeovers and illegal ATV use. This measure authorizes steep fines, vehicle seizures, and automatic license suspension. This law targets both participants and organizers, aiming to curb dangerous road behavior with tougher enforcement and penalties.

Click here for the complete list and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
 

Northeast Public Health Collaborative 

Several Northeastern states and New York City have formally launched the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, a voluntary regional coalition aimed at improving coordination, sharing resources, and strengthening public health capacity and emergency preparedness.

Purpose & Goals:

  • Promote evidence-based public health
  • Build trust in vaccines and science
  • Ensure equitable access to services
  • Protect public health through data-driven decisions
  • Joint planning on emergency preparedness, vaccines, data, labs, and workforce
  • Coordinated guidance for healthcare workers during respiratory virus season

The first in-person meeting was held this past August in Rhode Island. The states retain independence and may adapt initiatives to local needs. This collaborative aims to strengthen public health through shared innovation while respecting local autonomy.

Click here for more information.
 

Honoring the 65th Infantry Regiment Borinqueneers 

This Hispanic Heritage Month, Connecticut proudly honors the legacy of the 65th Infantry Regiment — The Borinqueneers. These brave Puerto Rican soldiers served our nation with courage and distinction. Our new commemorative license plate ensures their sacrifice is remembered on every road across our state.
 

Events this Weekend
Chalk Art Festival for Kids
Greenfield Hill Commons (75 Hillside Road)
September 28, 1-3pm
Read more here
Connecticut Cleanup
Southport Beach - Saturday, September 27 10am-1pm
Jennings Beach - Sunday, September 28 9-11am
Read more here
 

Halloween Season in Fairfield!



Third Annual Scarecrow Contest
Enter between now and Oct. 31
Read more here
Halloween on the Green
Fairfield Museum (370 Beach Rd., Fairfield)
Sunday Oct. 26, noon-4pm
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

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