|
|
|
|
Happy Labor Day!
Labor Day is upon us, and it is a time to reflect on the contributions of workers across every industry. Their dedication, resilience, and continued fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity on the job have shaped our nation and continue to move us forward.
As we celebrate the American labor movement, we honor the hardworking people who have built and strengthened this country.
While we enjoy this well-earned day of rest, let’s also recommit ourselves to advancing policies that uplift working families and ensure every worker is treated with the respect they deserve.
Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, meaningful, and restful Labor Day.
|
|
Labor Day Safety
This Labor Day, law enforcement is reminding drivers to make safety a priority by not getting behind the wheel while impaired. You can expect to see an increased police presence across the state. If your plans include drinking, plan for a sober ride home.
The Connecticut Department of Transportation encourages these safe alternatives:
- Designate a sober driver. Even one alcoholic beverage can impair your ability to drive; don’t take the risk
- Use a taxi, a rideshare program, or public transportation. Plan by downloading apps and checking local transit schedules
- Be a good friend. If someone is about to drive impaired, take their keys and help them find a safe way home. They might be upset in the moment, but they’ll thank you later
- Report impaired drivers. If you see someone driving erratically, slow down, keep your distance, and call 911 when it’s safe to do so
For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit nhsta.gov.
|
|
Women's Equality Day
On August 26, 1920, the 19th amendment was certified - giving women the right to vote...but the fight was not easy. It took activists and reformers nearly 100 years to win that right after a massive, peaceful civil rights movement.
It must be acknowledged that the women’s suffrage movement failed women of color. It took many more years before Black, Latina or Native American women could vote.
|
|
Revolution Wind Project Funding
This week I stood with colleagues, leadership, and our great unions to call out President Trump’s reckless decision to halt the Revolution Wind project—80% complete and critical to Connecticut’s future. This move doesn’t just jeopardize clean energy, it threatens good union jobs, working families’ livelihoods, and will ultimately drive electric costs higher for all of us. Connecticut and our neighboring states need these jobs and this affordable energy source. We have the fight in us, and I’ll continue standing with our unions and federal delegation to push back and turn this terrible decision around.
|
|
2025 CONN NAHRO Convention & Exhibition
This week I was invited to speak at the 2025 CONN NAHRO Convention & Exhibition, held August 24–27 at the Mohegan Sun Sky Convention Center in Uncasville. I spoke on the urgent need for more affordable housing, the role of RAP housing, and why the state must move beyond words and take real action to address Connecticut’s housing crisis.
For those who may not know, CONN NAHRO (Connecticut Chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials) brings together housing authorities, redevelopment agencies, and community development professionals from across the state. Their work helps expand housing opportunities, strengthen neighborhoods, and support families. A special thank you to John D’Amelia for the invitation, and to all the leaders of CONN NAHRO for the opportunity to share and for your tireless commitment to housing in Connecticut.
|
|
Mashantucket Schemitzun Visit
Last weekend was full of culture, heritage, and history at the Mashantucket Schemitzun. I had the chance to witness incredible traditional and contemporary dances, the deep sound of the drums, and walk through the Eastern Woodland Village where fire-pit cooking, wampum/fish net making, loom beadwork, and basketry were all on display.
The authentic Native-made crafts and the stories shared throughout the day made it an experience that truly brought the history and strength of our Native American brothers and sisters to life.
Native Americans were the first on this land, and their strong heritage has survived through centuries of struggle and change. Seeing these traditions alive today is a powerful reminder of their resilience and the importance of honoring their history. Thank you to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the numerous friends and neighboring tribes that made this such an amazing weekend.
|
|
Early Childhood Education Endowment Fund
The Early Childhood Education Endowment Fund is here—Connecticut’s first permanent savings account to reliably support early childhood education.
What’s happening now:
- $300 million invested up front to grow over time and strengthen child care statewide
- Launch of Early Start CT, combining multiple programs into one for simpler, fairer access
- $36 million in the first year (starting July 2025) to expand and improve child care services
- 1,000+ new spaces available by June 2026
- Higher pay and stronger benefits for early childhood educators
- Facility upgrades supported for providers
- Health coverage study underway for child care workers
What’s ahead:
- By 2027, families earning under $100k will receive free Early Start CT care
- Families earning over $100k will have costs capped at 7% of income
- More programs and spaces created through a competitive process
- Pre-K expanded from part-day to full-day, with inclusive classrooms for all children
This is just the start—a lasting investment in affordability, quality, and equity for Connecticut’s youngest learners.
|
|
Mohegan Reservation's Preschool TourThis week, I had the privilege of joining members of the The Mohegan Tribe Tribal Council, the Council of Elders, the dedicated staff of Little People’s Play Place Too, @Senator Cathy Osten, local and state leaders for a special blessing and tour of the new center on the Mohegan reservation.
Founded by Jill Kelsey, this preschool will officially open its doors on September 2 and is already welcoming families to enroll. The center isn’t just a place for childcare—it’s an incredible opportunity for our community. It provides a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and build the strong foundation they need for the future.
This celebration was more than just a ribbon-cutting—it was a reminder of how much stronger our communities become when we invest in our youngest learners and support the families who raise them. Thank you for the invitation and investment for the community of young learners.
|
|
Understanding Hate Crimes in Connecticut
The Connecticut State Police Hate Crimes Investigative Unit has released a flyer with clear steps on how to recognize, report, and stop hate crimes. Hate has no place in our communities, and this unit is making sure no one can ignore that fact.
The flyer lays out exactly how to identify hate crimes, what actions to take if you or someone you know is targeted, and where to find immediate support. This is about protecting every resident and making it clear: if you commit hate, you will be held accountable.
|
|
Back to School at Mitchell College
Thank you to the The Salvation Army - New London, CT and Mitchell College for the great day full of activities, music, fun and food. It was great to see the community and college come out and have fun and fellowship as they prepare to start school. Thank you to all that brought this to fruition along with the volunteers. This was a great day. |
|
New London Pirate Night
I had the opportunity to stop by visiting the young pirates downtown City of New London, Connecticut at the New London Pirate night event. Great amount of people dressed in costume having fun enjoying the pirate crafts for kids, pirate map scavenger hunt, live music and costume contest for kids and adults. It was nice stop by to see so many people come out and enjoy the event. Thanks to all those who made this festive event possible. |
|
If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me at my Capitol office at 860-240-8512 or email me at Anthony.Nolan@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "Like" my official Facebook page and follow me on Twitter for news and legislative updates.
Sincerely,
Anthony Nolan
State Representative |
|
|
|
|
|
|
