Legislation Passed 5/6/21

May 7, 2021
This Thursday the House was in session to pass several pieces of important legislation. Below I have provided highlights on several bills that passed, each with bipartisan support. 

HJ 59: Early Voting Access
Voting is the foundation of democracy, but Connecticut's outdated and restrictive voting laws have left too many behind. Early voting offers a safe, flexible and convenient way to vote. With the passage of HJ 59, the House has taken the first step towards a constitutional question on allowing in-person early voting appearing on the 2022 general election ballot. 

HB 6387: Living Organ Donors
Living organ donors offer the gift of life to those waiting on the transplant list, but often face increased insurance premiums or denial of coverage following the donation. With so many waiting for a transplant, we must work to increase the amount of living organ donors. HB 6387 prohibits insurers from discriminating against living organ donors. 

HB 6229: Food Insecurity College Students  
Too many of our low-income college students are facing food insecurity, negatively impacting their ability to thrive and succeed in the classroom. HB 6229 implements best practices to address the severe need and increase access to ensure our students have the basics needed to achieve success.

HB 6526: Electric Choices
HB 6526 will offer strong consumer protections and more piece of mind to ratepayers trying to better understand their electric choices. 

HB 6571: Zero Emission Hookups
HB 6571 will provide Connecticut businesses additional opportunities for low-cost financing of zero emission vehicle hookups on commercial properties. As we look to bring our state into a more climate friendly future and more electric vehicles are hitting the streets, this bill helps commercial properties meet a growing demand. 

HB 5592: Redefining “Veteran”
HB 5592 ensures LGBTQ+ veterans with less-than-honorable discharge status solely due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression receive the benefits they are completely entitled to. No member of our military should face unnecessary barriers to obtaining the benefits they've earned serving our country. 

HB 6519: Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is an essential resource – especially during the ongoing pandemic. With the passage of HB 6519, the House just took steps to collect data on the program's critical role in our communities and better inform ways to increase equitable access and funding. 

HB 5158: Breastfeeding in the Workplace
Returning to the workplace following the birth of new child is no easy transition. HB 5158 makes modernizations to the current law to remove barriers and support the needs of breastfeeding, working moms.