Springtime is here, and warmer temperatures are just around the corner. So is the 2025 legislative session, which ends on June 4th. I want you to know that my focus is on you, the constituents of the 116th District, and making their lives easier as best I can. I'm fighting to ensure good healthcare, education, and childcare remain accessible in the community.
In this newsletter, I'm proud to share that the Children's Committee, of which I am a member, was voted out of committee and is headed to the House floor. This legislation can transform Connecticut's investment in our children and our future. Keep scrolling for more details.
I also want to congratulate the UConn Women's Basketball team for bringing home an unprecedented 12th national title on Sunday. The Victory Parade has been moved to Sunday due to the expected inclement weather on Saturday.
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.
The UConn women's national championship parade in downtown Hartford has been moved to Sunday at 1 p.m. Please click on the image below for more details. Go UConn!
With the tax deadline fast approaching - April 15th - now is the time to take action if you haven’t filed yet. Connecticut residents have access to a variety of free resources to help complete both state and federal tax returns accurately and on time.
Whether you need in-person assistance, prefer online filing, or need guidance on available tax credits, these services are here to ensure you meet the deadline with less stress and confusion.
The IRS Direct File Tool is an option for anyone who lived and earned their income in Connecticut last year. You can use this resource if you have one or more of the following types of income:
W-2 (income from employer)
1099-G (unemployment compensation
SSA-1099 (Social Security benefits)
1099-R (income from employer-sponsored pension and retirement account)
1099-SA (distributions for qualified medical expenses from Health Savings Accounts)
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is staffed by IRS-certified volunteers who are specifically trained to help qualifying individuals, including low- to moderate-income taxpayers, people with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency, prepare and file both federal and state tax returns accurately. They can assist in claiming valuable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which can lead to a significant increase in your refund.
To access VITA services, taxpayers can visit an in-person VITA site, typically located at community centers, libraries, and nonprofit organizations. Many VITA sites also offer convenient drop-off or virtual options, allowing you to submit documents securely and have a preparer complete your return remotely.
Here are some of the eligibility requirements for VITA:
Household income less than $68,000
If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
House Bill 5003, An Act Concerning the Early Childhood Care and Education, was voted out of the Education Committee and moves closer to action on the House floor. As a member of the Children's Committee and a co-sponsor of this bill, I am proud to see it moving toward becoming law in CT.
Priority Bill 5003 is aimed at delivering faster funding to families, attracting and retaining childcare educators, and creating new and updating current childcare facilities.
This legislation is significant, especially for Black Women and Women of color. Expanding access to affordable childcare is so critical for providers whose workforce is largely made up of women, as well as Black and brown families receiving quality childcare while parents work. I think this bill is a good step in that direction. I believe that better childcare experiences also lead to better educational experiences, so I'm excited about the potential of HB5003. Stronger families, stronger economy.”
Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is a time to stand in solidarity with survivors and advocate for change.
Through the power of legislation, we’re making progress, closing legal gaps, expanding protections, and ensuring survivors have access to resources and support.
Through the power of legislation, we’re making progress, closing legal gaps, expanding protections, and ensuring survivors have access to resources and support.
I recently enjoyed a wonderful night of celebration, humanitarianism, and inspiration at the Person to Person Rising Together Spring Benefit Fundraiser.
Bringing awareness to one of the greatest needs right now, more than ever, is feeding families.