Session Items for February 24

February 24, 2021

Today, I am here at the State Capitol for a virtual session day to vote on some important bills.

We will be working on several measures that address constituent concerns across the state with respect to inequitable taxation when working from home, unfair burdens on the poor and discrimination based on hair style.

While this year's session looks and feels a little different, due to the pandemic, our legislative work continues with the same commitment and diligence as we debate and consider legislation that will help improve our state.

We are all following all the public health safety guidelines as well as wearing our masks.

Please remember that you can connect with us via the Connecticut TV Network – CT-N.com which provides real-time coverage of today's session and most of our public hearings and committee meetings.

See below for some additional details on today's session.

House Bill #873 includes tax relief for residents who normally work in MA or NY but are forced to work remotely due to COVID-19.

The bill creates a state income tax credit for many residents who normally commute to another state.

COVID-19 has presented many challenges for employees and I do not believe workers should shoulder all the burdens of working remotely.

A section of House Bill #873 repeals the unfair practice of seeking repayment of state assistance by placing liens on real property of those who have public assistance - even if it was decades in the past.

If residents find themselves needing to apply and receive public assistance, it means they really need that help to get by. Why place liens on properties when they get back on their feet?

It is time to put stop to this practice and allow those that need it to get help without risking their homes.

I don't believe anyone should be discriminated against because of the color of their skin and no one should be discriminated against because of the way they wear their hair – but it happens.

H.B. 6376, Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, is part of a national movement to prohibit discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and credit transactions based on natural hair and texture historically associated with race.

Oftentimes, there is a lot of effort that goes into these unique hairstyles. However, some with preconceived prejudicial views see these hairstyles as somehow inappropriate.

No one should be discriminated against for their hair style.

Please reach out if you have any additional questions.