I hope you and your family have been enjoying the warmer weather and brighter times.
The legislative work this week was both substantive and inspiring. My colleagues and I on both sides of the aisle worked tirelessly to debate and pass legislation for the betterment of our society. And considering the current state of perceived and real division in our country, it is always an honor to work collaboratively with both sides of the house chamber to accomplish the people’s business.
Whether I am working in the house of representatives or touring our businesses and neighborhoods, I believe that it is such a privilege to serve our city, our state, and our country. And regardless of our political affiliations and cultural backgrounds I am blessed to see different people come together every day to work toward a brighter future.
Below you will find information on the events I have attended, highlights on members of my staff, and bills we have voted out of the House of Representatives.
JEWISH COMMUNITY ADVOCACY EVENT
This past week I had the opportunity to attend the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut’s advocacy day at the state capitol.
I listened to the policy suggestions of some of the state wide leaders of the the Jewish community, and I also gave a quick tour of the Capitol to some of the Stamford residents who attended the event.
The story of the Jewish people is one of resilience, faith, and hope in the face of adversity, prejudice and persecution. Their story is woven into the fabric of our Nation’s story, and their constant contributions to our community pushes our nation forward in our ongoing march for justice, equality, and freedom.
I would like to thank all of the leaders from Stamford who came up to Hartford to advocate for their community, and I would like to thank Mr. Michael Bloom for helping to organize the advocacy day.
SUPPORT FOR GROUP HOMES
Yesterday officials from the Service Employees International Union and I took a trip to “Always Reaching for Independence” to speak with them on their current operations, tour their facilities, and hear their concerns for funding during our current legislative session.
The staff at Always Reaching for Independence are heroes, and the work they do provides life affirming care to individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. And this year, they are fighting for in increase in the benefits and wages they receive.
ARI provides residential support for individuals in five different group homes . In addition, ARI operates a day program providing community activities, life skills and vocational training for individuals with disabilities.
Group homes like ARI, and the heroes who work there selflessly dedicate themselves to providing assistance to those in our community who have the most need. It was an honor to meet everyone, and I would like to thank the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) for helping to put the tour together.
NO EXCUSE ABSENTEE VOTING PASSED IN THE HOUSE
The House of Representative passed HJ 1 on Wednesday, which means you will get to decide if we amend the state constitution to allow no-excuse absentee voting.
Connecticut's rules for absentee voting are among the most restrictive in the U.S. and are enshrined in its constitution. A constitutional amendment is required to remove restrictions on absentee voting.
Absentee voting works, which we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic in an effective and safe manner.
Voting is a fundamental American right. Eligible voters in Connecticut should have the freedom to choose how they vote whether it’s in-person on Election Day, in-person for two weeks prior to Election Day, which just passed the House last week, or by absentee ballot without needing to provide an excuse.
BILLS WE PASSED
Tuesday , May 9
The evolving cannabis market needs evolving regulations. That's why we approved HB 6699. Unregulated high-THC products have been legally sold in CT outside of our strict cannabis marketplace. This practice will end under new legislation approved by the House.
The House approved pro-consumer legislation in HB 6614…Gas stations that offer cash discounts should offer the same discount if you pay with a debit card.
HB 6877 strengthens the process and execution of risk protection orders (RPOs) to keep weapons out of the hands of those at imminent risk of injuring themselves or someone else.
From 1647 to 1697, several individuals in Connecticut, primarily women, were hanged for suspicions of witchcraft. Similar to the Salem trials, the accusations against the victims were often unfounded and based in misogyny. With House Joint Resolution 34, we recognize the trauma caused by the witchcraft trials in the CT colonial courts and absolve those accused and convicted of "witchcraft" and "familiarities with the devil."
Putting elections in the hands of the Constitutional office that manages elections makes sense. This bill designates the Secretary of the State as the state official responsible for certifying presidential electors.
Endometriosis is an under-studied disease impacting 1-in-10 women in CT. The House passed HB6672 to create the Endometriosis Data and Biorepository Program and associated endometriosis research lab.
If you have any issues, concerns, or feedback, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to contact me at 860-240-8585 if you ever need anything or by email at hubert.delany@cga.ct.gov
