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| United Way Grocery Assistance Program |
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Thank you to State Rep. Jaime Foster, the United Way, our grocers, and philanthropic partners for all jumping in to stand up the grocery store gift card initiative to meet the growing need in our communities for food assistance.
Even though SNAP funds were restored, the changes in eligibility from HR-1 mean 36,000 CT residents will lose their SNAP benefits altogether and another 50,000 will see a reduction in their benefits. During this giving season, if you are able to contribute please visit https://unitedwayinc.org/grocery-assistance/
Click here to watch a video on the press conference we held about the program this week.
To watch some local news coverage on the event, click here! |
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| Education Innovation Roundtable |
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Dr. Ingrid Canady from the State Education Resource Center and I convened education leaders from across the state this week to discuss the multiple challenges our education system is experiencing and the opportunities for improvement.
The discussion focused on the places where our education system is falling short, how we scale areas of excellence, what skills our students need in ordered to be prepared for the challenges of the future, and how we foster environments where students and educators feel empowered, challenged, supported, and able to take risks.
This was the first of many convenings to engage in this deeper systems-level work to ensure our schools are places that enable every student to achieve their full potential. |
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| What to Know About Measles in CT |
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With the concerning announcement of the first case of measles since 2021 in Connecticut, the Connecticut Department of Public Health have released some important "What You Need to Know" information about measles.
Measles is a dangerous but preventable disease that can be prevented through vaccination, and I would encourage you to read the graphics below to be prepared.
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| Skill Up Manufacturing 2026 |
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If you are looking for a career in manufacturing apply now for Skill Up for Manufacturing 2026.
Learn fundamentals in as little as 5 weeks, connect with employers, and start earning competitive wages. The class offers free training, hands-on experience, and industry-recognized credentials.
Upcoming Sessions:
January 20 – March 13, 2026 | Middlesex/Vinal Technical H.S., Middletown
February 23 – March 27, 2026 | Gateway CC, New Haven
Click here for more information and to apply now. Take the first step toward a rewarding career in manufacturing! |
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Starting Feb. 1, 2026, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin charging a $45 fee for air travelers who arrive at airport security without a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification, such as a valid passport or trusted traveler card. Travelers will be charged this fee to use TSA's ConfirmID identification verification system. The verification is valid for a 10-day period, so it may cover a return trip within that window.
To avoid unnecessary costs and potential security delays, travelers without a Real ID are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment at their local DMV to update their ID as soon as possible.
Click here to make an appointment with the CT DMV. |
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Admittedly, the recent announcement on the state's payments into retired teachers' and state workers' pension funds isn't likely to get your heart pumping or have you high-fiving your best friends.
But the news that the state is making continued progress toward meeting its long-term obligations is incredibly important to every Connecticut resident.
First, the numbers: the retired state workers' fund increased by more than $2.3 billion in 2025 due to strong investment performance and additional contributions. The unfunded liability decreased from $19.2 billion to $17.6 billion. The funded ratio increased from 55.2% to 59.6%.
Meanwhile, the retired teachers' fund grew by more than $1.6 billion, with its funded ratio increasing to 63.7%.
In a vacuum, the ratios may seem low, but consider that in 2018, the ratios were 37% for state retirees and 52% for teachers. That's because, for decades, the state failed to make the full required annual contributions to its pension funds, leading to a huge, compounding debt. Since 2011, however, responsible budgets adopted by the state legislature have fully funded these contributions annually and implemented collaborative reforms with labor and management.
What this means is that Connecticut is continuing to keep its financial house in order. One huge knock-on effect in a healthier pension landscape is Connecticut's credit ratings have improved (to Aa2, AA-, AA and AA+ by the various agencies), making it less expensive to borrow money due to lower interest rates.
Exciting? Maybe not. But definitely great news for every one of us. |
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Fairfield Winter Farmers MarketPenfield Pavilion (325 Fairfield Beach Road)Now through Sunday, March 22, 2026 10am-1pmRead more here
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All Aboard! StorytimeFairfield Museum (370 Beach Rd.)Tuesdays, Dec. 9, 16, and 23, at 9:30amRead more here
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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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