Additional SNAP Funding & Free Entry for CT Open House Day

June 12, 2026

You will find the following sections in today's email:

  • Additional SNAP Funding
  • Stronger Hate Crimes Law
  • Celebrating Pride Month
  • CT Open House Day on June 13
  • Grand Opening of New Restaurant
 

Additional SNAP Funding

Approximately 25,000 Connecticut residents who recently lost federal nutrition assistance will receive a $300 grocery store gift card though a new state-funded program. The $8.5 million initiative, back by Governor Ned Lamont, is financed through the state’s Federal Cuts Response Fund in response to recent federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

This assistance will help thousands of families, seniors, veterans, and individuals continue to put food on the table while navigating the loss of federal benefits. In addition to receiving grocery assistance, eligible residents will be connected with resources and support services to help them regain SNAP eligibility whenever possible.

I was proud to support the creation of Connecticut’s Federal Cuts Response Fund during last year’s special session. The fund helps the state respond quickly and effectively to federal funding cuts and policy changes that affect residents.
 

Stronger Hate Crimes Law

Connecticut continues to be a national leader in combating hate crimes. Governor Ned Lamont recently signed Public Act 26-77 into law, which I was proud to vote for, strengthening the ability of law enforcement and attorneys to investigate, charge, and prosecute hate crimes.

Connecticut was among the first states to enact a hate crimes law in 1990. Since then, additional hate crime provisions have been added over several decades in response to evolving needs and protections. As a result, Connecticut’s hate crimes laws became scattered throughout numerous sections of the General Statutes, making them more difficult to navigate and apply.

The new law consolidates those statutes into a dedicated chapter of state law, making them easier for law enforcement, prosecutors, and the public to locate and understand. It also updates and standardizes terminology across the statutes to improve consistency and clarity.

The legislation takes effect on October 1, 2026.

In conjunction with the signing of the law, the Connecticut Hate Crimes Advisory Council launched of a new statewide public awareness campaign, Hate Is More Than a Word… It May Be a Crime.

Click below to watch the PSA and learn more about the campaign.
 
 

Celebrating Pride Month

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the contributions, resilience, and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community while recognizing the ongoing work to ensure equality, dignity, and opportunity for all.

In Hartford, Pride Month reflects our city's longstanding commitment to inclusion and respect. Our capital city has long been home to vibrant LGBTQ+ communities, advocates, organizations, and allies who have helped make Hartford a welcoming place for people of all backgrounds and identities.

You can join the celebration downtown at Capital City Pride on Saturday, June 13.

Here is the schedule:

  • 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Pride on Pratt – a daytime family-friendly street fair along Hartford’s iconic Pratt Street.
  • 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.: PrideFEST and Concert – a more adult-themed neon/glow party featuring up-and-coming live artist performances spanning various musical genres at Capitol City Pride Stage at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza (300 Columbus Boulevard).
  • 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.: Pride Afterparty @ The Chez (458 Wethersfield Avenue) – the celebration continues into the night at Hartford’s premiere LGBTQ+ destination

As we celebrate Pride, we continue our commitment to building communities where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves. Happy Pride Month to all who are celebrating throughout Hartford and across Connecticut.
 

CT Open House Day on June 13

Mark your calendar for Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 13! More than 200 attractions across the state, including museums, arts and cultural venues, historic sites, farms, and restaurants, will offer free or discounted admission and special promotions including in Hartford.
Visitors are welcome to explore interactive exhibitions for free at the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History. “Rebellious” features stories from Connecticut history when its people came together, pushed back, and sparked change.
Get into some revolutionary fun and learn all about our state's history at Connecticut’s Old State House. Play the Provisions State Scavenger Hunt, explore the historic Legislative Chambers, and visit the entire museum with free admission.

Celebrate a remarkable literary moment as the Stowe Center for Literacy Activism marks Harriet Beecher Stowe's 215th birthday, Josiah Henson's 237th, and the 150th anniversary of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.

Gather at the annual Nook Farm Party, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., honoring the historic intellectual enclave that once brought together writers and thinkers like Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain. In collaboration with the Mark Twain House & Museum, the Stowe Center for Literary Activism, and the Asylum Hill Neighborhood Association, this free community celebration welcomes all ages.

Enjoy express house tours, open exhibits, community tables, hot dogs, cake, and activities for kids and adults. Learn, explore, and celebrate the enduring power of literature and community in the place where these stories began.
Click here for more CT Open House Day events
 

Grand Opening of New Restaurant
Congratulations to local entrepreneur Patricia Li on opening her newest restaurant, La BoriChina, at 500 Franklin Avenue in Hartford. Patricia, who is Puerto Rican and Chinese, has built a unique brand blending the rich flavors and traditions of both cultures in delicious ways. I recently visited the new location with my colleague Rep. Geraldo Reyes and can tell you firsthand: the food is incredible food and the atmosphere is welcoming.

Patricia’s success is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and small business entrepreneurship. She got her start at the original La BoriChina restaurant in Waterbury. I wish Patricia and her team continued success!