Child Tax Credit Proposal & Energy Assistance Extension

March 11, 2024

My colleagues are introducing a new proposal to establish a permanent refundable child tax credit in Connecticut. I'll break down how this bill would help many families in need as the cost of living continues to rise. 

Operation Fuel received more funding and is now extending its winter program season. Keep reading to find out how much longer folks can apply for emergency energy and water assistance.

Expect some delays on Route 8 for the installation of wrong way detection technology. Scroll down to see when and where there will be lane closures and a detour.

You will find the following sections below:

  • Push For Permanent Refundable Child Tax Credit
  • Operation Fuel Extends Winter Program Season
  • Wrong Way Detection Installation on Route 8
 
Push For Permanent Refundable Child Tax Credit
Many families are struggling to make ends meet in Connecticut, and that's why I support a new initiative that would establish a permanent refundable child tax credit in Connecticut. My colleagues and I are advocating for Senate Bill 36 and House Bill 5113, both of which aim to introduce a child tax credit that will significantly benefit our communities.
 
This initiative would:
  • reduce child poverty
  • support growth and stability for our families
  • strengthen our economy
  • create a fairer tax system
Rep. Hilda Santiago gave a speech in Spanish about the need for this bill.
A permanent child tax credit would benefit about 75% of families and about 550,000 students in our state. We are advocating for this bill now because we cannot wait. According to the Connecticut United Way, nearly 40% of Connecticut households had income below the ALICE threshold of financial survival. Every family should be able to provide for and care for their children, and this initiative would go a long way to making that a reality.
Watch NBC Report on Our Child Tax Credit Proposal
 
Operation Fuel Extends Winter Program Season
Operation Fuel is extending its 2024 winter program season and accepting applications until Friday, March 15 thanks to more funding. The organization offers emergency energy and water assistance in Connecticut. Operation Fuel’s grants, which go up to $500, are available for Connecticut residents who earn up to 75% State Median Income.

To apply for delivered fuel assistance, such as oil, propane, and pellets, you must provide:

  • Proof of income for the past four weeks and for every adult in the household
  • Clients with a current Connecticut Energy Assistance Program award letter may submit this as proof of income for their household
  • Forms to verify zero income, self-employment, and friends and family support are available at www.operationfuel.org/gethelp 
  • The name of your preferred delivered fuel vendor (Operation Fuel has a list of in-network vendors)

To apply for utility assistance, such as gas and electric, you must provide:

  • Proof of income for the past four weeks and for every adult in the household. Clients with a current Connecticut Energy Assistance Program award letter may submit this as proof of income for their household 
  • Your utility account information and most recent, past due bill  

If you received an award last year are eligible to apply again before March 15. Operation Fuel does not take applications in person or over the phone. To apply online or through a partner agency, please visit www.operationfuel.org/gethelp.
 
Wrong Way Detection Installation on Route 8

The state is committed to its promise to improving our safety on busy roads. Crews will install wrong way detection technology on Route 8 north at exit 35 in Waterbury. The work will take place on Tuesday, March 12 and finish the following day.

There will be lane closures during that time, and drivers will follow a detour at exit 36. CLICK HERE for more details on the detour.