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Happy Friday - I hope you had a great week.
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While the legislative process can sometimes seem archaic and hard to follow, today I want to share a story with you that highlights how personal the work we do is.
I want to give a shoutout to a Plainville teacher, Mrs. Levandowski, who reached out after the tragic death of a toddler who choked at a New Britain daycare. She believed there had to be more we could do to improve safety in childcare settings.
After reviewing research on group daycare centers, family daycare programs, and camps — and speaking with trainers who work with childcare staff after emergencies — one thing became clear: many staff are CPR and first aid certified, but they are not required to practice those lifesaving skills together after certification.
That’s why I introduced a bill requiring community childcare centers, family childcare centers, and camps to conduct staff emergency drills for CPR, first aid, and Heimlich response. These drills would be done twice a year, and camps would complete one before children arrive for the season. Children would not participate — the focus is ensuring staff know their roles during an emergency.
Even staff who are not certified play an important role, such as calling 911, directing responders, and communicating clearly during a crisis. Practicing these scenarios builds muscle memory so people can respond quickly and calmly.
Childcare staff already conduct fire drills and active shooter drills, but choking emergencies are not currently practiced. This is a simple, practical idea that costs nothing but could truly save lives and ensure childcare providers feel confident responding in an emergency.
I’m grateful Amanda brought this forward. It has the potential to save lives. This bill was voted out of committee and will be brought to the floor for a debate. Thank you, Amanda, for showing the power of getting involved!
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In the rest of this week's eblast, you can read about upcoming public hearings, free consultations from the CT Bar Association, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.
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March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to recognize the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities while also raising awareness about the challenges they may face.
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There are many ways to show support during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. You can:
- Engage in meaningful conversations
- Share stories and experiences
- Amplify the voices of people with lived experience
- Help break down stereotypes and misconceptions
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You can also show your support by wearing orange, the official color of Development Disabilities Awareness Month, symbolizing energy and positivity.
Supporting local organizations, advocating for inclusive policies, and ensuring that schools and workplaces are welcoming to people of all abilities are also important steps. By working together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, is valued, respected, and empowered.
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There are 10 public hearings scheduled next week - please see the graphic below for the schedule. Show up, stay informed, and have your voice heard!
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| The Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) and Statewide Legal Services of CT, Inc. are once again offering an opportunity for individuals to register for a free, 30-minute virtual consultation with a Connecticut attorney to obtain legal advice and information in a variety of legal areas. |
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The clinics will be held on April 21 and April 22 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pre-registration to participate is required -- sign up HERE by April 3.
There are no income or asset eligibility restrictions – the clinics are open to all Connecticut residents. In addition, the CBA will make every effort to find an interpreter for anyone who requests that service. |
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| March 9–13 is Civic Learning Week in the state of Connecticut. This nationwide initiative highlights the vital role of civic education and engagement in preserving and strengthening our constitutional democracy. |
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| By focusing on deepening public understanding of democratic values, rights, and responsibilities, this effort aims to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to actively participate in democratic processes. |
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| Through diverse educational programs, discussions, and events, Civic Learning Week fosters a collective commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and freedom that are central to a thriving, inclusive society. Ultimately, it seeks to ensure the health and vitality of democracy for generations to come. |
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Connecticut may be a small state, but its agricultural impact is significant. More than 5,000 farms operate across 372,000 acres, and the state’s agricultural industry contributes approximately $4 billion annually to Connecticut’s economy. In addition to food production, the industry supports a broad network of related activities, including processing, distribution, and agribusiness. Altogether, agriculture provides around 30,000 jobs statewide, making it an important source of employment and economic stability.
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Connecticut residents also benefit from year-round access to fresh, locally grown food. With more than 100 farmers’ markets operating across the state, consumers have many opportunities to connect directly with local farmers and producers. Choosing locally grown foods not only supports farmers and strengthens the state’s economy, but also promotes healthier communities by increasing access to fresh, nutritious products.
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Celebrate National Agriculture Week by supporting local farms. Click here to explore all things Connecticut Grown, from fresh local foods to farms and farmers’ markets across the state!
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Sincerely,
Rebecca Martinez
State Representative |
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