|
|
|
|
|
Dear Neighbor,
We're back after a brief break, just ahead of the first weekend of the fall, and new laws that will go into effect on Wednesday, October 1st. I have included a section about them below for your perusal.
I am bringing to your attention this week a great automatic admission program to an in-state college for CT seniors.
Also, a warning from the Department of Revenue Services: a text message scam has been circulating. Scroll down for more details.
I hope you enjoy this week's newsletter. Topics include:
- Around the 41st District
- Renter's Rebate Program Deadline is Tuesday
- New Laws Going into Effect on Wednesday
- Hello, Connecticut Automatic Admission Program (CAAP)
- Northeast Public Health Collaborative Formed
- DRS Scam Making the Rounds
- CT Department of Transportation News
- Veterans Resources & Updates
- Hispanic Heritage Month Highlight
- Fall Foliage in Connecticut
- Community Events
Do not hesitate to contact me with any thoughts or concerns you may have at Aundre.Bumgardner@cga.ct.gov or 1-800-842-8267.
Sincerely,
Aundré Bumgardner
State Representative
|
|
I was honored to join today’s Change of Command at Naval Submarine Base New London, the first and finest submarine base in the United States.
It has been a privilege to work with CAPT Kenneth M. Curtin Jr., and I look forward to working with CAPT Craig E. Litty as he takes the helm as the base’s 54th commanding officer here in Groton.
It was also great to hear from Rear Adm. Carl Lahti, a former commanding officer of the base and outgoing Commander of Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, and Rear Adm. Stephen Barnett, the incoming Commander of Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, who shared valuable perspectives on the future of the fleet and our region’s vital role. |
|
What a special time we had at Stand Up for Start Fresh on the beautiful shores of Lord’s Point in Stonington.
I was honored to welcome my friend Attorney General William Tong, UConn student leader Sadeya Zacharia, and Emmy & Peabody Award-winning comedian Paul Mecurio for an inspiring gathering overlooking Fisher’s Island Sound.
Together we spoke about meeting this moment—standing with refugees and displaced families as they build new lives in southeastern Connecticut. Sadeya’s journey, from fleeing war in Sudan to thriving as a neuroscience student and campus leader, shows the power of a true fresh start and why this work is so urgent.
Deep thanks to Eileen Morehouse and the dedicated volunteers who made this event possible. Their commitment reminds us that our community’s strength is measured by how we welcome and support every neighbor seeking safety and opportunity. |
|
Also, earlier this month, I had a wonderful time at the International Food Festival hosted by Iglesia Cristiana Emanuel Vision Celestial in Groton!
It was great to connect with neighbors and enjoy such a vibrant mix of culture and cuisine. TVCCA’s WIC team was on hand—sharing resources that help families across eastern CT—along with friends from the Town of Groton’s Resilience & Sustainability Office and Ledge Light Health District.
Events like this highlight the very best of Groton: delicious food, strong partnerships, and a community that cares. |
|
| I wanted to send a reminder that the Elderly & Disabled Renter's Rebate Program Deadline is Tuesday! Please see more details, including eligibility requirements, on the flyer below. |
|
| Several measures passed during the 2025 legislative session will take effect on Wednesday, October 1, including an update to our motorcycle and e-bike laws that reflect our continued efforts to promote public safety and adapt to emerging technologies on our roads. |
|
A new law raises the age requirement for motorcyclists to wear a helmet from 18 to 21 and increases the age limit for children to wear a helmet while riding bicycles, scooters, and skateboards from 16 to 18 years old.
New regulations are also being introduced for certain high-powered electric bikes. Riders of e-bikes without pedals and equipped with batteries over 750 watts (25-28 mph) will now need a valid driver’s license to operate them.
Additionally, e-bikes with batteries exceeding 3,500 watts (capable of speeds of 35 mph or higher) will require registration and insurance, similar to motorcycles.
Another measure prohibits the handcuffing of children under the age of 14, except in cases where there is a clear threat to public safety or when the child poses a risk of physical violence toward an officer.
This law is intended to mitigate the traumatic impact that the use of restraints can have on young children. All new laws effective on October 1st can be found HERE. |
|
| I am excited to share this wonderful opportunity for Connecticut high school seniors! |
|
|
The Connecticut Automatic Admission Program (CAAP) guarantees automatic admission to students with strong academic records. This program waives the application fee, student essays, and recommendation letters for participating institutions.
Seniors with a 3.0 weighted GPA or a 2.75 unweighted GPA can apply to 10 participating public and private colleges with a single free application.
Participating colleges and universities include:
- Central Connecticut State University
- Eastern Connecticut State University
- Southern Connecticut State University
- Western Connecticut State University
- Albertus Magnus College
- Goodwin University
- Mitchell College
- University of Bridgeport
- University of Hartford
- University of New Haven
For more information and application instructions, please click HERE.
|
|
| Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and New York City officially announced the formation of the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, aimed at strengthening public health coordination, sharing expertise, and improving preparedness across state lines. |
|
| The Collaborative’s shared purpose is to work together in new ways – optimizing the use of shared resources, innovating and reimagining core services – to ensure trust in public health, respond to public health threats, advance community health, and strengthen confidence in vaccines and science-based medicine. |
|
The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is alerting taxpayers to a new scam where scammers are impersonating the DRS by sending fraudulent text messages.
The texts fraudulently claim that you are owed a tax refund from the DRS and require you to provide banking and other information to receive the refund. |
|
The DRS will NEVER send taxpayers a text message or seek to obtain information from taxpayers via text.
Anyone who has information regarding a tax-related scam is urged to contact DRS by completing a referral form on the agency’s website.
Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to reach out to DRS by telephone at 860-297-5962, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. or by email at DRS@ct.gov. |
|
Nighttime Repairs on the Gold Star Bridge Along I-95 North and Southbound in New London/Groton
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announcing that bridge work will be performed on Bridges 03819 and 02514A along I-95 north and southbound (Gold Star Bridge in New London/Groton. This project is scheduled to occur on Monday, September 8, and be completed on Friday, October 3, 2025. This project ensures the bridges remain in a state of good repair.
LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO
There will be nighttime lane closures on I-95 north and southbound from Monday, September 8, to Friday, October 3, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., Monday-Thursday. No work will be performed on Columbus Day. Traffic control signing patterns and crash units will guide motorists through the work zone.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.
|
|
|
Temporary Signalization on Route 215 in Groton
A temporary signal was implemented on Route 215 in Groton on Monday, June 9th. It will be de-energized in November 2025. Project No. 0058-0338 consists of replacing the culvert headwalls and relining the existing culvert pipe under Route 215 at Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove.
LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO
There will be continuous single-lane closure on Route 215 from June 9 to November 2025. Traffic control signing, temporary pavement markings, and the temporary signal will guide motorists through the work zone in an alternating one-way manner.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.
|
|
|
Culvert Replacement on Route 215 in Groton
A culvert replacement at Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove will be performed on Route 215 in Groton. Minor construction and utility work have already commenced.
This project is scheduled to typically occur on Mondays through Fridays with anticipated completion on November 22, 2025.
The project will address the deterioration of the existing headwalls and the separation of the culvert sections spanning Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove on Route 215 in Groton, Connecticut. The project is scheduled to be completed on November 22, 2025.
|
|
| This project is to be completed on Friday, August 22, 2026. At applicable locations, pedestrian control features, such as countdown pedestrian indications, accessible pushbuttons, and sidewalk ramps, will be upgraded to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety. |
|
As the State Representative for Groton, Mystic, and Stonington, home to a strong military community and the U.S. Naval Submarine Base, I am committed to ensuring Veterans, active-duty service members, and military families have access to the latest updates, resources, and opportunities.
Below are important events, legislative updates, and benefit programs that may be of interest to our district’s Veterans. |
|
Upcoming Events for VeteransWreaths Across America – Start Sponsoring Now!Every year, we strive to place a wreath on all requested graves at the Connecticut Veterans Cemetery and Col. Gates Cemetery. You can sponsor early to help us reach our goal. Sponsor HereLegislative & Policy Updates
2025 Connecticut General Assembly Session Opened January 8Veterans can track bills related to military benefits, tax relief, and more using the General Assembly’s Bill Tracking Tool: Track Bills HereHow to Get a Copy of Your DD 214
- Your DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is critical for accessing VA benefits. Here’s how to obtain a copy:
- Check with your Town Clerk – Many Veterans file their DD 214 with their local town clerk.
- Contact CT Veterans Affairs – They have an archive of 130,000 DD 214s. Email oaa.dva@ct.gov for assistance.
- Submit a Request to the National Archives – The fastest way is online: Request Here
- If Needed for Burial or Military Honors – Funeral directors have priority retrieval access.
Applying for a Discharge UpgradeVeterans with less than honorable discharges due to PTSD, TBI, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), or sexual orientation (Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell) may be eligible for an upgrade. Learn more and apply online: Discharge Upgrade InstructionsMunicipal Veterans Representative ProgramEach town must appoint a Veterans Representative to help Veterans access services. Find your local VetRep here: Locate Your Rep2025 Veterans Benefits Guide Available for DownloadThe latest edition of the VA’s "Veterans Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers" is now available: Download Here
Stay Connected & Get Involved
I encourage all Veterans, military families, and community members to stay informed and engaged. You can sign up for the Connecticut DVA Newsletter to receive future updates: Subscribe Here.For those looking to connect with fellow Veterans, share stories, and access important resources, consider attending a Veterans Coffeehouse near you. These gatherings provide a welcoming space for Veterans to socialize and receive information about benefits and services:
|
|
- Groton – 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Groton Public Library – 52 Newtown Road
- Mystic – 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Mystic Congregational Church – 43 East Main Street
- Pawcatuck – 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center – 27 Chase Street
For more locations and information, contact:
Gina King, Director, Senior Volunteer Services
gking@tvcca.org | 860-425-6617
If you have any issues, concerns, or ideas related to Veteran services, military families, or legislative priorities, please feel free to reach out to my office. Your service and sacrifices deserve to be honored with the best support possible.
|
|
This Hispanic Heritage Month, Connecticut proudly honors the legacy of the 65th Infantry Regiment — The Borinqueneers.
These brave Puerto Rican soldiers served our nation with courage and distinction. Our new commemorative license plate ensures their sacrifice is remembered on every road across our state. |
|
|
Now that fall has arrived, Connecticut is about to glow with autumn color! Here’s what to expect and how to make the most of it:
- Litchfield Hills / Northwest CT: tends to peak earlier, so early October is ideal there
- Hartford & Central CT: mid‑October is often prime
- Connecticut River Valley: the color can linger a bit, making it great in mid‑to‑late October
- Coastal & Shoreline areas: later in October, sometimes up until Halloween
Click here for the full CT Fall Foliage Report so you know peak viewing times in each area of the state.
The CT Tourism Office has some great ideas on how to enjoy the season, click here for CT's Fall Foliage Road Trip Guide and links to hiking trails and click here for seven different CT Fall Foliage Drive Loops around the state and the peak times to take them.
Don’t miss your chance to soak in the season’s beauty!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
