Legislative Update 3.26

March 26, 2025

Greetings Community!

Spring is in the air! We have a few wet days on tap, but the temperatures will be warmer. Sunny days are coming! The end of the 2025 legislative session on June 4th is fast approaching.

We have a lot of work to do, and I am committed to fighting for policies that improve our community and the quality of life of the residents living in the 116th District, so stay tuned. I'll keep you informed on our progress.

This week, I touch on a bill recently voted out of the Energy & Technology Committee regarding energy affordability and utility accountability. There was a huge rally in Hartford last week in support of Medicaid. I've also included a few more items that I hope will be helpful to you.

Have a great week,

As always, if I can ever be of any help, please feel free to contact my office at (860) 240-8585 or by emailing me directly.

Sincerely,

Treneé McGee

Voted out of Committee: SB4

CT House and Senate Democrats voted to address energy affordability and utility accountability by passing SB4, An Act Concerning Energy Affordability Access and Accountability, out of the Energy & Technology Committee.

This bill, which I certainly support is aimed at improving service and reducing costs for electricity ratepayers in the state.

A Win for the Ratepayer

A superior court judge recently dismissed nearly all of United Illuminating’s claims that state regulators acted unfairly in denying most of the company’s 2023 request to increase electricity rates for its customers in Connecticut.

The judge said the UI complaint was “not a model of clarity” and made it difficult to weigh the company’s arguments.

What is VERY CLEAR is that CT ratepayers have a strong utility regulator looking out for their interests.

For more, please read the CT Mirror story HERE.

Fighting for Medicaid

Last week's Medicaid rally at the Capitol was part of a nationwide day of action by members of Congress that brought together state and federal leaders, healthcare workers, advocates, and Medicaid recipients.

The rally aimed to warn of the consequences should Congress approve drastic reductions to Medicaid funding.

Medicaid serves hundreds of thousands of the most vulnerable people in our state, including children on the Husky program, people with disabilities, and seniors As you will see in the graphic below there are many West Haven residents who will be directly affected by these federal funding cuts.

Unfortunately, our students are set to lose the most.

West Haven Prevention Council to Offer Mental Health First Aid Training

This free training is for any community member interested in how to better support and respond to those with mental health challenges. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents, grandparents, young adults, educators, city staff, and more. Sign up today!

West Haven Health Department Seeks Your Input

The Connecticut Department of Public Health is conducting a short survey to collect input on the best ways to improve health and well-being in our communities. Your voice matters!

Are you a Connecticut resident? Scan the QR code or visit the link in the flyer to share your thoughts.
Are you between 11-21 years old? We have a special survey just for YOU! Scan the QR code in the second flyer or visit the link to participate.

Your feedback will help shape programs and initiatives that benefit YOU and your community.

CT Police Scam Alert

The Central District Major Crime (CDMC) Headquarters has received multiple reports from Connecticut residents about phone calls from unknown male callers claiming to be members of the Connecticut State Police (CSP) or the U.S. Marshal Services.

The scammers, who speak with a thick accent, tell the victims they are under investigation for “money laundering” and request personal information over the phone. The calls appear to be coming from 860-706-5652, which is the CDMC main landline. However, these calls are NOT made by CDMC, and it's believed to be a scam attempt.

While these scam attempts are being investigated, we want to inform the public that these calls are NOT from the Connecticut State Police. Please note that Troopers and Law Enforcement Agencies will never ask for money or personal information over the phone.

If you receive a call that claims to be from the police or any other government agency, DO NOT provide any personal information. Hang up immediately and verify the call by contacting the organization directly using an official phone number. If the call seems suspicious, report it immediately by calling 911.

Thank You Greater New Haven NAACP

Thank you Greater New Haven NAACP for inviting me to be the guest speaker at this weekend's General Meeting. What an honor!

I was proud to share information about Black maternal health, infant mortality early childhood education, HB5003, and more. We also discussed engaging in the political process by testifying, writing letters, and calling your representatives!

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

As March Madness heats up, here’s a friendly reminder not to get too carried away. March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a nationwide campaign to promote prevention, treatment, and recovery services for problem gamblers.

This year's theme, “Seeking Understanding,” focuses on increasing awareness of problem gambling as a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition.

The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates about 2 million people in the U.S. meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem, while another 4 million to 6 million people experience mild or moderate issues. The cost to the country -- $14 billion annually – is incredibly steep. Yet the ability to place a sports-related bet has never been easier – in most cases just a few clicks on a smartphone.

The lower barriers to placing bets and the removal of the social stigma on gambling have had devastating consequences for some. Indeed, one of the most vulnerable demographics to problem gambling is youth. The NCPG and Responsible Play CT cite data that shows more than 75% of college students have gambled in the last year.

There are state and national resources for help.

Responsible Play CT offers information and a toolkit on problem gambling.
The Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling offers trained helpline specialists who connect callers to free, immediate support & treatment options in Connecticut. Its number is 888-789-7777.
The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (860-344-2244) offers problem gambling services.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline is available at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

The NCPG's problem gambling toolkit can be found by clicking here.

Celebrating Women's History Month

Every month is Women'sHistory Month on the Connecticut Women’s Heritage Trail. 14 historic sites, each with its own stories of women who defied expectations, broke barriers and shaped our state.

Today is Epilepsy Awareness Day

Connecticut House Democrats are committed to raising awareness, supporting those affected, and advancing vital legislation for better care and resources. Together, we continue to shine a light on epilepsy. 💜

Visit the Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut for valuable resources, support, and ways to get involved HERE.