Increasing Benefits for First Responders & Join the Fight Against Cancer

June 19, 2026

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Increasing Benefits for First Responders
  • Celebrating Juneteenth
  • Join the Fight Against Cancer at Relay For Life
  • Discussing Health Care with Trinity Health
  • New Immigration Services Available
 

Increasing Benefits for First Responders

Governor Ned Lamont signed Public Act 26-12 into law to strengthen recruitment and retention efforts for Connecticut’s first responders.

The new law expands benefits for state and local police officers, firefighters, correction officers, EMS personnel, and National Guard members.

Some of the benefits include:

  • Tuition Waivers: Free tuition at Connecticut State Colleges & Universities for eligible police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel.
  • Mortgage Assistance: A new program to help first responders buy homes in the communities they serve.
  • Health Coverage for Survivors: Access to state employee health insurance plan for surviving spouses and dependent children of certain public safety personnel who died in the line of duty.
  • National Guard Employment Support: Enhanced employment assistance services and an annual job fair for current and former National Guard members.

Our public safety professionals put themselves on the line every day to protect our communities. These benefits recognize their service and help ensure Connecticut can recruit and retain the dedicated workforce our residents depend on.
 

Celebrating Juneteenth in Waterbury

This week, our nation recognizes Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom marking the end of slavery in the United States.

On June 19, 1865, more than two months after the Civil War ended and over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation took effect, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed enslaved African Americans that they were free. For many, it was the first time they learned that slavery had been abolished.

Thanks to generations of advocates who worked to preserve this history and elevate its significance, Juneteenth is now recognized as a national holiday and an opportunity to honor the resilience, contributions, and achievements of Black Americans.

Waterbury will mark the occasion with a community celebration featuring a flag raising ceremony, inspiring speakers, local vendors, community resources, and opportunities to come together in the spirit of unity, resilience, and progress.

Come celebrate Black history, culture, and excellence on Friday, June 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Waterbury City Hall (235 Grand Street).
 

Join the Fight Against Cancer at Relay For Life

I invite you to join me, fellow cancer survivors, caregivers, and community members at the American Cancer Society Relay For Life on Saturday, June 20 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Crosby High School track.

This inspiring event brings the greater Waterbury area together to celebrate survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and raise critical funds for lifesaving cancer research and patient support programs. Throughout the day, participants will take turns walking along the track as a symbol that the fight against cancer never stops.

As a prostate cancer survivor, I will share my personal journey and highlight the importance of early detection. Regular screenings can save lives, and I encourage everyone, especially men, to speak with the healthcare provider and stay up to date on screenings.

Whether you walk a lap, donate, cheer on participants, or simply stop by to show your support, your presence helps make a difference. I hope to see you there.
 

Discussing Health Care with Trinity Health

Members of the Waterbury Legislative Delegation recently met with the new leadership team at St. Mary's Hospital and Trinity Health of New England to discuss the hospital's future, its ongoing needs, and how we can continue working together to strengthen healthcare services in our community.
We had a productive and encouraging conversation about St. Mary's role in serving Waterbury and the surrounding region. The hospital's leadership reaffirmed its commitment to providing high-quality care and meeting the healthcare needs of local residents.

Access to strong, reliable healthcare remains a top priority for our delegation, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with St. Mary's to ensure Waterbury residents receive the care and services they deserve.
 

New Immigration Services Available

I was honored to join Judy Baez and community leaders at the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony for Raices Latina, a new organization dedicated to empowering immigrant families through accessible legal services, community education, advocacy, and fair representation.

Many in the Greater Waterbury area already know Judy from her years of service helping immigrants navigate complex legal and administrative processes. Through Raices Latina, she is expanding that mission by providing trusted resources and support that help individuals and families build stable, successful lives in our communities.

Located at 250 Pomeroy Avenue in Meriden, Raices Latina is committed to defending the rights of immigrant communities while connecting residents with the tools and information they need to thrive.

Congratulations to Judy on this exciting new chapter and wishing her continued success!