Robert Sanchez

It was a great honor to join living Borinqueneers, local and state officials, dignitaries and special out of town guests, family and friends for the dedication ceremony of the Borinqueneers Monument at Memorial Park in New Britain this past Saturday.

I was proud to join with my colleagues in welcoming professionals, families and friends from the Opportunities Industrialization Center of NB (OIC) to the State Capitol for their annual advocacy day. This center provides individuals, children and youth with necessary skills to help them achieve their educational and career goals. Their work is commendable and I salute all of them for their invaluable commitment to the communities they serve. It is always a pleasure to meet and greet hard working, committed people to the State Capitol and support their advocacy.

The state House of Representatives took a step on April 19 toward closing the gender wage gap and ensuring women earn equal pay for equal work by passing House Bill 5386.

A measure I fully support to extend the time for early childhood educators to obtain their degree in Early Childhood Education today passed the House Chamber unanimously. As vice chair of the Education Committee, I was proud to bring out this bill on the House floor.

The Connecticut State Bond Commission approved a $6 million loan on April 13 to Columbus Commons project stakeholders to help assist with the construction 80 new units of rental housing with 64 income-restricted affordable units.

We are closing in on the deadline to apply for heating assistance. If you are eligible for home heating assistance, this program is here to help you and your family stay warm.

I was pleased to welcome advocates, professionals and friends at the State Capitol for Early Childhood Advocacy Day. I commend their commitment and passion for all the children they work with from birth to early years. Thank you for all you do to improve the present and the future of these wonderful children.

The legislature's Black and Puerto Rican Caucus will be hosting a public forum in Hartford on Tuesday, February 20, to discuss ideas and concerns about pressing policy issues to help draft their 2018 legislative priorities.