John-Michael Parker

Happy Friday, and happy Independence Day!

I hope you'll join me in taking a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this important holiday. Independence Day is not just about fireworks and cookouts – it’s about honoring the ideals of freedom, democracy, and the generations of Americans who have fought to protect them.

The legislative session officially concluded Wednesday, and we got a lot done for the people of Connecticut.

I want to give you a really exciting legislative update.

This week, the House passed HB 5004: An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors

As the House Chair of the Environment Committee, this was the major piece of legislation our committee worked on this session, and I advocated for the bill on the House floor.

As we enter the final few weeks of our legislative session, I want to make sure you're up to date on all the important work we're doing on your behalf at the State Capitol.

On Monday, May 5 from 6-7pm at E.C. Scranton Memorial Library (801 Boston Post Rd., Madison), I will be joined by State Sen. Christine Cohen for a mid-session town hall to tell you about what to expect this session, talk about our priorities, and, most important, hear what your priorities are for Connecticut.

From our two-year budget to environmental policy, there is a lot to discuss. I hope to see you there!

I'm so excited to announce I've been selected as a 2025-2026 State Lead for the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL).

In this role, I will serve as NCEL’s main point of contact in Connecticut, supporting NCEL staff in organizing and coordinating state briefings.

In addition, I'll play an important role in connecting colleagues with NCEL and helping them understand how their resources and network can support their work.

Last Wednesday, I was proud to be sworn in for another term as State Representative at the Connecticut General Assembly. It was great to celebrate this moment with my family, see my legislative colleagues again, and begin planning how we are going to help the people of Connecticut this session.

From my family to yours, I want to take a moment to send my best wishes for the holiday season. May it bring you and your loved ones peace, happiness and time well spent together. Remember that no matter how we celebrate, we also share many blessings. So, in the spirit of the season, please spread the joy that makes this time of the year truly special.

Connecticut towns are receiving opioid settlement funding as a result of legal settlements with major pharmaceutical companies accused of fueling the opioid crisis through deceptive marketing and distribution practices. These funds are being allocated to support local efforts to address the Opioid crisis.