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Click the links in the introduction to navigate to the corresponding sections in the body of this email.
If you are having trouble with the links try opening this email in your browser.
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NEW SECTION ALERT
The weekly update now includes a game schedule for our school athletics teams!
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| Friends and Neighbors,
You’re likely following the debate and the subsequent votes that the legislature took, both yesterday and today to renew the governor’s declarations that permit a dozen executive orders to aid in our collective efforts to keep residents housed, fed, and safe amongst other things. We will provide a separate email this week to further inform you of these orders and what they mean for Connecticut's residents, both young and seasoned. Over the last 18+ months, your continued partnership in the care and kindness you've extended to your fellow humans have been tremendous parts of our collective success. Thank you for being decent and for being kind.
In the meantime, we would like to highlight several new laws in Connecticut that will take effect on Friday, October 1. These laws are a result of the legislature's work during the 2021 session in an effort to create a more stable, resilient, and productive state for everyone who lives here. |
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| Below is a selection of just some of the laws that take effect on Friday:
Addressing Online Harassment
- Public Act No. 21-56 – Updates Connecticut's stalking and harassment laws to expand the definition of second degree stalking to include causing fear of harm to an animal and the disclosure of personally identifiable information through electronic communications.
- It also expands the definition of second degree harassment to include electronic communications and first degree stalking to include situations motivated by bias.
Breastfeeding in the Workplace
- Public Act No. 21-27 – Requires employers to provide a private room or location with an electrical outlet for women to express milk. Employers must also provide a refrigerated space to store the breastmilk.
- The law also protects breastfeeding employees from workplace discrimination.
Marijuana and Smoking Restrictions
- On October 1, a portion of Public Act No. 21-1 will go into effect.
- Medical marijuana patients who are 18 years of age or older can start growing mature and immature plants at home.
- Smoking of any kind (tobacco, vaping, marijuana) will be prohibited within 25 feet of the any door, window, or vent intake of any building open to the public.
Pedestrian Safety
- Public Act No. 21-28 clarifies the rules for pedestrians in crosswalks
- Starting October 1, drivers must slow down or stop if a pedestrian is in the crosswalk or indicated that they are going to cross.
Addressing Gender Discrimination
- Public Act No. 21-30 – Requires employers to offer equal pay for "comparable” work regardless of gender.
- Also requires employers to offer prospective applicants and employees with a scale of pay among those with similar tasks.
Community Violence Prevention Services
- Public Act No. 21-36 – establishes specific training requirements for hospital workers providing violence intervention services and provides Medicaid reimbursement for this work.
Expanding Veterans' Funeral Benefits
- Public Act No. 21-112 – expands the list of funeral expenses for veterans that qualify for state assistance, like obituaries.
Click here the complete list of laws that will go into effect on October 1.
Although these laws are a compilation of this year's accomplishments in the legislature, you always have the opportunity to make your voice heard. Please stay active in the legislative processes and stay in touch.
Below you will find a guide to the following information. Click the subject links in this intro to go right to the topic in the body of this email.
You can find additional resources and information on my web site,
www.housedems.ct.gov/currey. If there's something you need help with that isn't included in this email, please check my website. If you can't find what you're looking for there, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. |
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| Jeff Currey |
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Overall Summary
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Total
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Change Since Yesterday
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COVID-19 Cases (confirmed and probable)
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389,730
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+553
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COVID-19 Tests Reported (molecular and antigen)
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11,088,005
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+19,555
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Daily Test Positivity
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--
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2.83%
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Patients Currently Hospitalized with COVID-19
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259
(194 – 74.9% – are not fully vaccinated)
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-5
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*Data on COVID-19 deaths is updated once per week every Thursday.
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Specific Updates for Our Community
| Town |
Total Cases |
Total Deaths |
Number of Tests |
Number of Positive Tests |
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| East Hartford |
7,238 |
161 |
164,299 |
9,009 |
| Manchester |
5,695 |
160 |
156,079 |
6,913 |
| South Windsor |
1,920 |
55 |
53,883 |
2,262 |
Weekly Update of the Department of Public Health's COVID-19 Alert Map
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Good news! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended booster shots for certain individuals who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine which includes:
- Individuals 65 years of age and older
- Frontline workers ages 18 to 64 who are at risk of exposure
- Long-term nursing home residents; and
- Individuals with certain high-risk, underlying medical conditions.
Booster shots were previously approved for those who are immunocompromised in mid-August.
Although people who have received two vaccine doses still have significant protection against COVID-19, a third dose is a chance for older adults and those most at risk to reinforce their immunity. Those who received the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are not yet eligible for booster shots.
Booster shots may be administered six months after the second vaccine dose. Those who are eligible for a booster shot can sign up at https://portal.ct.gov/Vaccine-Portal. Booster shots will be available at hospital vaccine sites, at urgent care clinics and pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens.
It is important to note that high levels of demand may make appointments difficult to come by at first, but those who want booster shots will not have to wait long.
The COVID-19 vaccine is our greatest weapon against this deadly virus. As new variants continue to develop and spread, it is critical that everyone get vaccinated. I encourage all those that are eligible to sign up and get a booster shot to improve immunity against COVID-19.
If you have not gotten vaccinated, you can find a location near you by visiting https://portal.ct.gov/Vaccine-Portal.
Stay safe and stay well. |
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| Eligible school staff (see definition below) who have chosen to forego the COVID-19 vaccine can receive FREE COVID-19 testing at a state supported clinic. There are locations across Connecticut where you will not be billed for a COVID-19 test. You may be asked for your insurance information, but you will NOT be billed. If you do not have insurance, you will also not be billed. You can find additional sites here. Only covered workers at public and private pre-K to grade 12 school systems or child care facilities will be able to access this service.
The full definition of covered worker includes all full and part-time employees, contract workers, providers, assistants, substitutes, and other individuals working in a public or non-public pre-K to grade 12 school system or child care facility. This definition also applies to those providing operational or custodial services or administrative support at schools or child care facilities or any person whose job duties require them to make regular or frequent visits to any such school or child care facility or to have regular or frequent contact with children in child care, students, or staff. Covered worker does not include a contract worker who visits a public or non-public pre-K through grade 12 school or child care facility only to provide one-time or limited-duration repairs, services, or construction, or a volunteer. |
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AT THE CAPITOL, IN DISTRICT, & BEYOND...
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| Congratulations to East Hartford's own - East Hartford Police Officer Mona and K-9 Casus for placing first in the Obedience category at the 29th Connecticut K-9 Olympics on September 18! This day-long competition showcases the skills of K-9 units from all over our state. Categories include obedience, marksmanship, building search, obstacles, and an apprehension K-9 drill.
Last month, Officer Mona and K-9 Casus placed first at this year's Dream Ride 2021 Police K-9 Challenge. They competed against 30 teams from across the country.
Great job! |
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| In accordance with state law, the Town of South Windsor is conducting a survey as part of its efforts to create an Affordable Housing Plan by June 2022. An Affordable Housing Working Group is evaluating South Windsor's current and future housing needs and will make policy recommendations to town boards and agencies. If you would like to provide feedback, click the button below to take the survey. |
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| As you can see from the graphic above, “normalcy” is not something our students have not had for far too long. Teachers remained dedicated and worked tirelessly under the most difficult circumstances to provide a high level of education for our students. The Connecticut Education Association (CEA) recently launched a new ad campaign highlighting educators' dedication to their students and to creating safe and welcoming learning environments. This fall, teachers throughout our state welcomed students back to in-person learning and are continuing their commitment to keeping students safe and learning despite the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. |
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The campaign focuses on three elements:
- Strong and Safe: Educators are working hard every day to protect children’s health with all their might.
- Strong and Dedicated: Educators are professionals, trained and prepared to meet all students’ needs.
- Strong and Supportive: Educators are working to ensure that every student succeeds.
The month-long campaign hit T.V. screens, radio channels, and digital media on Sunday, September 19 and has been highlighted by several news outlets. Click here to read more.
Watch and listen to all of the ads here.
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| This week, the University of Connecticut Department of Public Policy held an informational panel on Connecticut's youth car theft trends. This issue has garnered significant media coverage over the past several years, and the panel provided a look at the facts and the next steps Connecticut can take to address it. Click the image above to watch the presentation. |
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| The State of Connecticut recently launched a new influencer campaign call "Do Your Thing CT" to highlight all the unique dining, shopping, and experiences Connecticut has to offer. This is an effort from the Office of the Governor and state Department of Economic and Community Development to partner with local influencers to promote their favorite CT sports and activate their social networks to encourage residents to support local businesses.
Residents and visitors can participate in the campaign by posting a video or photo of their favorite Connecticut small business using the hashtag #DoYourThingCT on social media.
You can learn more about this campaign here. |
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| Game on!
It's fall sports season at our middle and high schools! Click the links below for schedules of this week's games:
You can also find schedules and results on the CIAC website. |
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| The Hartford Marathon is back in-person this year on October 9! Registration is still open for the 5K and marathon races. New for this year is Team 13.1 Relay for two runners to split the half distance. In addition to the in-person race around Hartford, a virtual race will be offered.
Click here to learn more and register. |
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| The East Hartford Alumni Association and Education Foundation is hosting its second annual Founders' Reception on October 21, 2021 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Rebel Dog Coffee Co., 361 Main St., in East Hartford! This is a great event if you want to learn more about the organization's work and how it's positively impacting education. The organization is comprised of an all-volunteer group of alumni, teachers, parents and town residents to promote excellence and innovation in East Hartford schools.
Proceeds from this fundraiser will help provide scholarships for students pursuing higher education, fund special programs teachers could not otherwise fund, and so much more. Learn more about the event and East Hartford Alumni Association and Education Foundation here. |
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| Thank you to Gengras Motors for the $10,000 donation to the East Hartford Alumni Association and Education Foundation! This money will go a long way to support East Hartford Public Schools students and educators through various networking, mentoring, scholarship opportunities, and grant making programs. |
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| Are you looking for ways to support your local agricultural producers? Have you been wanting to source your food more locally? East Hartford, Manchester, and South Windsor have some truly great farmers' markets this season! Get more information about each below:
Nearly every farmers’ market in our state is affiliated with the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) which serves participants of Women, Infant, and Children and seniors who are over the age of 60 and meet income eligibility guidelines with checks to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, cut herbs and honey.
For more information on FMNP please click here. For a full list of this year's farmers' markets please click here. |
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| In 2019, Connecticut was one of the first states in the nation to pass paid family and medical leave to provide working parents with the support they deserve. As our state begins to roll out these benefits this January, the CT Paid Leave Authority has developed several resources to assist small businesses throughout this transition.
Beginning January 1st, there will be significant changes to the CT Family and Medical Leave Act. Income replacement benefits will be available for Connecticut workers who need to take unpaid time away from work to attend to their personal — or a loved one’s — health needs.
Previously, Connecticut’s Family and Medical Leave Act only applied to workplaces with 50 or more employees, but as of January 1st, the CT FMLA's job-protections will apply to workplaces with one or more employees to ensure all workers in Connecticut receive the assistance they need.
It is equally important that we support both families and small business owners throughout the state. While these benefits begin in January, applicants may begin to file before the start date. In preparation, the CT Paid Leave Authority has put together the following webpage to guide businesses as they navigate this shift. |
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| Additionally, the Connecticut Small Business Development Center will host a series of webinars on the subject. I will continue to provide updates about these resources as they roll out.
If you have any questions about these resources or the CT Family and Medical Leave Act, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. |
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| If you have been struggling to pay or catch up on your electric, water or other utility bill, Operation Fuel can help connect you to payment plans or get coded for Hardship or Winter Protection. Hardship or Winter Protection coding will protect your service until May 1, 2022. Call your electric or gas company to determine your eligibility.
Apply for Help from Operation Fuel:
To learn more about emergency assistance through Operation Fuel, apply online, chat online with a specialist, or find a fuel bank in your neighborhood, click the button below.
You can learn more about payment plans your utility company offers below:
- Heat
- CT Natural Gas: 860-524-8361
- Southern CT Gas: 860-659-8299
- Electricity
- Eversource: New Start - 860-286-2000
- United Illuminating (UI) - 800-722-5584
Additional help is available through the following:
- UniteCT - Money toward back rent, and light bill. No shut off while they work on your application.
- Energy Assistance: Money toward back heat bill. Call your utility company or the United Way's 2-1-1 info line.
- CT Public Utilities Regulatory Authority: (800) 382-4586. Ask for help getting an affordable payment plan.
- Center for Children's Advocacy: 860-566-0836
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If you need support catching up with rent payments or have a tenant who does, the UniteCT program may provide up to $10,000 in rental payments to landlords and $1,500 in electricity payments to utility companies on behalf of qualified tenants. Landlords or tenants can apply for assistance, and applicants can track the progress online.
For more information on UniteCT program and the documentation required for the application process, please click here.
For residents without social security numbers, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants may be able to assist those residents and their landlords, and can be reached at 860-692-3085, or at 175 Main Street, Hartford CT.
Click here for the information sheet in ENGLISH and SPANISH. |
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JOB OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES
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| Through the state's Department of Labor, the American Job Center offers resources, information, and support for individuals throughout the state searching for a job. You can receive help writing a resume and attend interview technique workshops for those currently on the job hunt. For more information, click here. |
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| Are you interested in a career in public service and want hands-on experience in state government? The Connecticut House Democratic office here in Hartford is looking for members to join its team! Openings include an outreach coordinator, constituent engagement coordinator, and press aide. Click the button below to learn more and apply. |
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| DATTCO, First Student, and Autumn Transportation have openings for school bus drivers in our area. Click the buttons below to learn more about each company, the benefits it offers and apply to openings. |
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| Eversource has numerous openings at its Berlin office as well as locations in Hartford, Windsor, and beyond. Opportunities include Senior Drone Operator, Line Mechanic, Engineers, Project Cots Analysts, and more. If you would like to explore the opportunities at Connecticut's largest energy supplier, click the button below. |
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| The Town of Manchester has several openings! Opportunities include Assistant Animal Control Officer, Assistant Budget Director, Librarian, Maintainer, Police Officer, and so many more! If you want to serve your local community, click the button below to find all of the open positions here. |
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| Connecticut Main Street Center is hiring a Field Services Director. If you are looking for meaningful ways to create vibrant downtowns at the heart of Connecticut communities, this position is for you! The Field Services Director will be someone who is outgoing and energetic with the ability to multi-task. The incumbent will provide guidance and technical assistance to the Connecticut Main Street Network and manage a robust member engagement and support program to advance Connecticut Main Street Center goals and vision. |
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| EAST HARTFORD:
Click here for the Town Meetings calendar.
Click here for the Community Events calendar.
Click here for information on the East Hartford Public Library.
Click here for East Hartford Community Television. |
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SOUTH WINDSOR:
Click here for the Public Meetings calendar.
Click here for the Community Events calendar.
Click here for information on the South Windsor Public Library.
Click here for South Windsor's Government Television Programming - watch LIVE town council meetings! |
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MANCHESTER:
Click here for the Town Meetings and Community Events Calendar.
Click here for information on the Manchester Public Library.
Click here for Manchester Public Television. |
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Upcoming Meetings and Events
A full calendar of all events happening at the Capitol next week, including public hearings, is available on the General Assembly website.
You can find the agenda for public hearings on the calendar by clicking on the calendar item and following the link to the committee page. For instructions on how to testify at a public hearing, please click here.
You can view a list of all the bills passed by the House so far this session here.
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