Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Hartford Marathon, and Beware of Texting Scam

October 10, 2025

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I'll break down what laws we have passed in Connecticut to help fight this disease.

I hope you are ready for big crowds at the Hartford Marathon this weekend. I'll let you know what to expect including road closures.

You should be aware of a texting scam where criminals pretend to be with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services. I'll dig deeper into how to avoid becoming a victim. 

These are the sections in today's email: 

  • Breast Cancer Awareness Month
  • Hartford Marathon This Weekend
  • Texting Scam Alert
  • Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day

 
 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October marks the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and here in Connecticut we have more reason to be hopeful and energized as we renew our commitment to early detection, support, and advocacy, and to celebrate the progress our state has made in expanding access and protections for those at risk.

In Connecticut, there is meaningful momentum in the fight against breast cancer. Under state law:

  • Health insurance policies in Connecticut are required to cover diagnostic and screening mammograms, breast ultrasounds, MRIs, and much more.
  • We expanded coverage to cover additional diagnostic screenings (beyond mammograms) for individuals at increased risk due to family history, genetic testing, prior radiation treatment, or dense breast tissue.

Additionally, Connecticut's Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program offers free screening, diagnostic, and referral services to underserved populations statewide. This is a vital safety net for those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

We stand with survivors, honor those we’ve lost, and fight for a cure.💗
 

Hartford Marathon This Weekend

This weekend, Hartford will host the Eversource Hartford Marathon, bringing a surge of visitors, participants, and energy to our city and region.

Economic & Community Impact

  • The marathon consistently supports local businesses — from hotels, restaurants, and retailers to event vendors and charities.
  • Since 1994, the event has delivered more than $208 million in regional economic support.
  • Charitable fundraising is a central feature: in past years, the marathon has raised millions in donations for community causes.

Road Closures & Traffic Safety

  • From about 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., many roads across Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor will be closed or limited.
  • Key ramps and highway exits (I‑84, I‑91, Route 2, etc.) will be affected for varying durations.
  • CTtransit & CTfastrak buses will be on delayed and detoured schedules between about 7:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Click here for more information
 

Texting Scam Alert

The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is alerting everyone of a new scam where criminals impersonate the DRS with fraudulent text messages. They claim that you are owed a tax refund and must provide banking and other information to receive the money.

The DRS will NEVER send taxpayers a text message or try to get your personal information via text. If you know of any other tax-related scams, please contact DRS by clicking here to complete a referral form on the agency’s website.

Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to reach DRS at DRS@ct.gov or by calling (860) 297-5962, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 
 

Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day 
On Monday, we recognize the deep roots and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities in Connecticut. Our history stretches back more than 12,000 years, with nations like the Pequot, Mohegan, Paugussett, Schaghticoke, Quinnipiac, and many others stewarding this land.
 
Both Hartford and West Hartford Public Schools will be closed on Monday to observe this important holiday.

Let’s use this day to learn more, support Indigenous voices, and commit to honoring Connecticut’s Indigenous history and future.