Updates from State Rep. Nick Menapace for Dec. 9, 2025

December 9, 2025

My next Constituent Corner is Dec. 16 at Taza Grill (170 Flanders Road in Niantic) from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

I love speaking with Connecticut residents, especially ones who lives in the 37th District, on things that matter to them. While there are always other ways to communicate, I believe the most effective is direct, face-to-face, respectful talks.

I hope to see you at Taza Grill on the 16th to enjoy some great food and conversation!

In keeping with my opening thought, I wrote a letter to The Day reflecting on something I think we all feel right now: that we’re at our best when we talk to our neighbors, not just online but in real conversations.

You can read it here.

Fiscal Accountability Meeting

Earlier this week, as part of the Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee, I took part in our annual Fiscal Accountability Meeting with Appropriations, OPM, and OFA. It’s the moment each year when we step back and take an honest look at Connecticut’s long-term fiscal outlook — the good news, the pressure points, and the uncertainties ahead.

Two issues stood out this year: the many unanswered questions surrounding the federal HR1 law, and the significant structural challenges facing our Special Transportation Fund later this decade. These aren’t abstract numbers — they affect transportation, healthcare, and core services families rely on.

I’m grateful to OFA and OPM for their clear and detailed presentations as we continue this work.

Access Health CT

Connecticut’s official health insurance marketplace, Access Health CT (AHCT), has announced key dates for enrolling in health and dental coverage for 2026.

Important Enrollment Deadlines

Enroll by Dec. 15 for coverage that begins January 1.
If you enroll between Dec. and Jan. 15, your coverage will begin Feb. 1.

Connecticut’s Open Enrollment Period began on Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 15. During this time, residents can shop, compare, and enroll in health or dental plans—or renew existing coverage.

Financial Help May Be Available

AHCT remains the only place where Connecticut residents can receive financial assistance to help pay for health insurance. While recent federal changes have adjusted who is eligible and how much help is available, many residents will still qualify. Some may also be eligible for no-cost options, such as the Covered CT Program or HUSKY Health (Medicaid/CHIP).

Free Enrollment Assistance

If you need help understanding your options or completing your application, free support is available:

In Person or Online

Visit AccessHealthCT.com and click “Get Help” to schedule an appointment, find a nearby Navigator site, or attend an enrollment fair.
AHCT has expanded its Navigator program to six statewide locations and now offers a Mobile Enrollment Team for community events. Assistance is available in English and Spanish.

By Phone

Call 1-855-805-4325, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Help is available in more than 100 languages.

Special Hours

Dec. 15 & Jan. 15: 8 a.m.–midnight
Dec. 24: 8 a.m.–noon.
Dec. 31: 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Closed: Dec. 25 and Jan. 1
TTY for customers who are deaf or hearing-impaired: 1-855-789-2428 or use a relay operator.

Live Online Chat

Visit AccessHealthCT.com and click “Live Chat.”
Available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–6:45 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

Around the 37th

Last weekend's Montville Holiday Parade was a wonderful reminder of how strong and joyful this community is. Grateful to share the evening with Rep. Nick Gauthier, Sen. Cathy Osten, and Mayor Lenny Bunnell — and a big thank you to everyone who came out!

Niantic knows how to do a Holiday Stroll! During the last weekend in November, I got greeted by Percy the therapy dog, crossed paths with Snoopy, Woodstock, Frosty, the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who, and joined First Selectman Dan Cunningham for the tree lighting.

Such a great night in our community.

I was proud to attend the swearing-in ceremony in East Lyme last week. Congratulations to all of our newly elected officials — wishing you a successful term serving our community!

I kicked off Small Business Saturday in Salem at Burnett Country Garden’s holiday craft fair. I also got to see my friend Selectman Gary Closius— aka Santa

— raising money for Care & Share, a reminder of how generous our community is.

Small businesses and local makers are the heart of Salem, and supporting them keeps our community strong. If you’re out and about today, stop by a local shop or fair — it truly makes a difference.