Updates from State Rep. Aimee Berger-Girvalo for April 17, 2026

April 17, 2026



 

 

We are about to enter the busiest stretch of the legislative session, with just three weeks remaining before adjournment on May 6.

During this time, I expect to be in Hartford most days as we take up key legislation, finalize the state budget, and work through the many bills that remain on our agenda.

It’s a fast-paced and important period, and I’m focused on making thoughtful decisions that reflect the needs and priorities of our community.

As always, my office is here to help. Whether you need assistance navigating state services, resolving issues with a state agency, accessing benefits like SNAP, or simply have a question or concern about legislation, please don’t hesitate to reach out. 
 

The Aldrich Featured in the NYT

Please take a moment to read this feature from the New York Times on the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum.

As many of us already know, the museum stands out as a nationally respected cultural asset right here in Ridgefield.

The Aldrich has built a legacy of groundbreaking exhibitions, including early showcases of women artists and more recent inclusive, forward-looking programming.

This June, the museum launches “Aldrich Decennial,” a recurring exhibition spotlighting 40 emerging artists living and working across Connecticut. By visiting over 100 studios statewide, curators have captured the diversity, innovation, and global perspectives shaping our local arts community.

Read more here.

Learn more about The Aldrich here.
 

Intern's Report: A Day of Transgender Visibility and Vital Advocacy

I hope everyone had a great week.

Last week at the Connecticut General Assembly, there was an event that truly warmed my heart but also served as a reminder of the importance of state-level advocacy.

I attended the Capitol News Briefing with Lt. Governor Bysiewicz, State Rep. Shannon, CWCSEO Executive Director Hill, and advocates to celebrate International Transgender Day of Visibility.

Attending this briefing gave me a deeper perspective on how the work done in this building directly impacts the lives and safety of Connecticut citizens.

During the briefing, the Lt. Governor championed Connecticut as one of the safest states for transgender individuals to live in. However, the presentation also highlighted the ongoing challenges the community is facing. Tony Ferraiolo, a representative from Equality CT, shared a personal story from about a year ago that made him question his future as an advocate, and I could hear the courage in his voice as he spoke.

It made me really reflect on how personal politics are.

This news briefing is not necessarily a part of the policy making process, but it is a statement on behalf of Connecticut to other states creating anti-trans policy, as well as at the federal level.

I was devastated to hear that after the briefing ended, the Supreme Court ruled that Colorado (and 22 other states) could weaken bans on conversion therapy for minors. This briefing serves as a reminder for Connecticut transgender citizens and transgender citizens from other states that our state is devoted to enacting policy that protects the community.  

Witnessing passionate advocacy at events like this has been a fulfilling experience amongst many others during my time as an intern for Rep. Berger-Girvalo. Engaging in this work triggers a path forward for the next generation of leaders, no matter who they are, where they come from, or how they identify themselves.

This ensures a future where legislation continues to focus on protecting and supporting every resident of Connecticut.
 

Rid Litter Days

From the town's website:

Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19
If everyone helped for 15 minutes, what a difference it would make.

Take Pride – Town Wide!
 

Pick Up Supplies at:

  • Ridgefield Bicycle Company, 88 Danbury Road
  • Ridgefield Parks & Rec Center, 195 Danbury Road
  • Town Hall Information Office, 400 Main Street
  • (Supplies; safety vests, trash bags, blue bags for recycling cans & plastic bottles)

Drop off points for filled refuse bags on April 18 & 19 only:

  • Branchville Elementary School, 40 Florida Road
  • East Ridge Middle School, 10 East Ridge
  • Farmingville Elementary, 324 Farmingville Road
  • Ridgebury Elementary, 112 Bennetts Farm Road
  • Ridgefield High School, 700 North Salem Road

For more information or questions, call/text Melene Rose 801-652-7384.

Co-sponsored by the Caudatowa Garden Club and Town of Ridgefield with support from HRRA, Ridgefield Bicycle Co. and Ridgefield Hardware Store
Download Flyer
 

Sincerely,

Aimee Berger-Girvalo
State Representative

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