| This week, Gov. Ned Lamont presented his biennial state budget priorities to a joint session of the General Assembly. His proposals focus on affordability, economic growth, and transformative investments while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Key priorities include early childhood education and tax relief. |
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| Under Governor Lamont’s leadership, Connecticut has significantly paid down billions of dollars in pension debt while maintaining a strong economic standing, with low unemployment and growing revenues.
His latest budget proposal upholds fiscal discipline while exploring initiatives such as a Universal Preschool Endowment, increased education funding, and expanded special education support.
Healthcare reforms aim to control costs, including capping generic drug price increases and expanding Medicaid. Strategic investments in housing, transportation, and workforce development further reinforce Connecticut’s long-term prosperity.
The governor continues to emphasize bipartisan cooperation, responsible spending, and policies that create opportunity and security for all residents — ensuring a stronger Connecticut for the future.
I look forward to working with my colleagues and hearing your thoughts as we move through the budget process. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them!
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| Southington STEPS in the House |
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| Wednesday, I had the pleasure of welcoming Southington STEPS students and advisors to the State Capitol. We met to discuss the status of HB 5427, a bill I introduced to address the sale of Kratom, an unregulated, addictive and harmful substance. |
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| During the visit, I introduced the students to legislators from both sides of the aisle who support the bill and shared the exciting news that their proposal, presented in my bill, has been incorporated into a larger committee bill — one that will receive a public hearing on Feb. 14 at which they can offer testimony.
We wrapped up our time together with a tour of the House Chamber, just before the Governor’s budget address.
I look forward to continuing my work with Southington STEPS as we strive to protect the health and safety of Southington residents, as our legislative proposal moves forward. |
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The rising cost of electricity has been a significant burden for many households, and I share your frustration. That’s why I am committed to holding energy companies accountable, bringing relief to ratepayers, and working to fix our broken energy system.
Many constituents have reached out to share their concerns about the financial strain caused by rising electricity rates.
As a parent managing school-related expenses and the son of elderly parents on a fixed income, I understand firsthand how these increasing costs impact families. Your stories and concerns fuel my advocacy for Southington residents at the State Capitol. |
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| As I have shared in previous updates, since this summer I have been collaborating with members of the Moderate Caucus to research solutions, develop legislation, and build support among my fellow legislators for meaningful reforms.
This work has resulted in the introduction and co-sponsorship of several key bills aimed at lowering electricity costs, including HB 5927, HB 5953, HB 5751, and HB 5952. These bills focus on the following crucial areas:
- Reducing Hidden Charges on Electric Bills – Conducting audits of the "Combined Public Benefits Charge" and eliminating unnecessary programs, such as electric vehicle incentives, to prevent overpayments.
- Providing Tax Relief for Overcharged Ratepayers – Establishing a tax credit to offset excessive utility fees.
- Expanding the State’s Natural Gas Supply – Mandating the expansion of natural gas infrastructure to enhance availability and affordability.
- Reinvesting Nuclear Power Funds to Benefit Ratepayers – Ensuring that funds from nuclear power agreements are used to stabilize or lower costs.
- Exploring Local Utility Alternatives for Lower Rates – Investigating the feasibility of municipal electric utilities, as an alternative to Eversource, to increase competition and drive down prices.
- Ending Conflicts of Interest That Drive Up Rates – Prohibiting members of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) from joining utility companies for 15 years after their term.
In addition to these legislative efforts, I continue to work closely with fellow lawmakers to evaluate additional proposals that will provide much-needed relief to ratepayers. My goal is to negotiate, find common ground, and push for real solutions to address the electricity crisis.
While addressing 26 years of deregulation and previous energy policies is no easy task, I am committed to working tirelessly, building coalitions, and fighting for meaningful change. I appreciate your input and encourage you to continue sharing your thoughts. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Together, we can push for a fairer and more affordable energy system. |
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Governor’s Advisory Board
for the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing |
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This week, I attended the quarterly meeting of the Governor’s Advisory Board for Persons who are Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing. We discussed the group’s priorities, and I provided an update on HB 5578, a bill I introduced to establish a State Interpreting Standards Board. This proposal builds on last session’s progress, which created a bureau within the Department of Aging and Disability Services to support Connecticut’s deaf community.
I remain committed to working alongside this engaged group of advocates and look forward to attending their legislative breakfast next month, where I will continue building support for their legislative priorities with my colleagues. |
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| Special Education Press Event |
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| This week, I was invited to attend a press conference with the Governor and the Commissioner of Education, where Superintendent Madancy highlighted the challenges our district faces with special education costs.
He also discussed solutions included in HB 5252, a bill I introduced in collaboration with the superintendent to help reduce excessive costs in our town’s education budget, ultimately reducing the local car and property tax burden on Southington residents. As Vice Chair of the Select Committee on Special Education,
I look forward to advocating for meaningful changes that will benefit not only Southington’s students and families but also communities across Connecticut. Click HERE to read press release. |
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| Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee Public Hearing on Thursday |
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Veterans – we’re reaching out with an invitation to an important Public Hearing hosted by the Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 11:30 a.m. in Room 1C of the LOB, with virtual access via Zoom and YouTube Live.
Your voice matters and we want you to join us. We’re also offering a FREE tour of the CT Legislative Office Building and the Capitol at 9:15 a.m.
This hearing will address several key legislative proposals directly impacting veterans, including:
- Property Tax Exemptions (SB 1091, SB 1276) for veterans, including those who are 100% disabled.
- No-Cost Driver’s License Renewals for veterans (SB 1150) and Free Ridership on Veterans Day (HB 6728)
- Affordable Housing for Disabled and Elderly Veterans (SB 1277, HB 6764, HB 6768).
- Reimbursement of Fees and Specialty License Plates for veterans (HB 5787, HB 6722, HB 6734).
- Recognition & Support Initiatives (HB 5787, 6722), including Veterans' Month designation (HB 6723) and protections against predatory benefit claims assistance (HB 6874, HB 6909).
- Support for the CT Veterans Cemetery (HB 5117)
- Dental Support for Veterans (HB 6755)
Your testimony on this legislation — whether sharing personal experiences, advocating for better resources, or supporting fellow veterans—can make a significant impact. You can participate in person, via Zoom, or by submitting written testimony.
How to Get Involved:
Register to Speak
Submit Written Testimony
Watch Live on YouTube |
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| Government 101 with the Scouts |
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| This week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Cub Scouts from Pack 8, Den 3 and Webelos from Pack 19 to talk about the role of state government and civic engagement.
The scouts asked many great questions that kept me on my toes and demonstrated their interest in active citizenship.
Thank you to the parent volunteers and Scout leaders for your commitment to our youth. |
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| REMINDER: On Feb. 9, I will host the kick off my 2025 Legislative Session Listening Tour at the Lions Den Coffee House in Plantsville. State Rep. Rebecca Martinez (Southington, Plainville, Farmington) will join me on this first stop.
I hope you can attend and look forward to the conversation!
Please check my official Facebook page or reply to this message for weather-related updates. |
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📢 Upcoming Tour Stop! 📢
Join me on Feb. 15 at the Southington Coffee House for a casual, one-on-one conversation. This is another great opportunity to share your questions or concerns about Southington or the State of Connecticut, and learn about current legislative proposals. I hope to see you there. |
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| Guide Rail Updates on West Street |
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| The Connecticut Department of Transportation will upgrade guide rails on Route 229 north and southbound from Exit 31 to the Bristol town line. Work begins Friday, Feb. 14, and will not occur on scheduled holidays. |
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| Right lane and shoulder closures will occur Feb. 14 – March 14, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Traffic control measures will be in place. Schedule changes may occur due to weather or unforeseen conditions. Motorists should drive safely in the work zone. |
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| Dementia Friendly Southington |
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| Reminder: LiveWell is hosting a screening of the film "Human Forever," with a community discussion to follow on Monday, Feb. 10, from 4:15 to 6:30 p.m.
The event takes place at the Resilient Living Center on the LiveWell campus, 1261 S. Main. St., in Plantsville.
"Human Forever" is a documentary on how how dementia is dealt with in other countries.
RSVP at livewell.org/humanforever or call 860-628-9000. |
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| On Feb. 12 at 1 p.m. the South Central Health District is hosting an event on the dangers of Radon.
The event is being held at the Calendar House, 388 Pleasant St.
Each attendee from Southington, Plainville or Middlefield will be provided a free testing kit.
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| The First Congregational Church of Southington, 37 Main St., is hosting a blood drive in honor of Lucas Prado, who was diagnosed with "Cooley's Anemia" when he was 15 months old.
Lucas requires blood transfusions every two weeks.
The blood drive, sponsored by the United Way of Southington, is from noon to 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13.
To schedule a donation, call 1-800-733-2767 or visit redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code: Southington. |
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| As always, if I can be of assistance, please reach out to me at 860-240-8585 or email me at Chris.Poulos@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "LIKE" my Facebook page for news and legislative updates! |
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