Help for Veterans, Special Ed Funding, and Free Help to File Taxes

February 27, 2025

We passed a new measure supporting our veterans in Connecticut. Keep reading for a deep dive into how we're honoring those who gave so much to our country.

Speaking of our veterans, I'm supporting a bill honoring a specialized military unit comprised of mostly Puerto Rican soldiers. Please read below to learn how I'd like the state to honor the legendary Borinqueneers.


Connecticut remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting special education by approving $40 million in immediate funding. I'll break down how much Hartford will receive and why the timing is so important.

I'm sure some of you have received W-2s and other forms, which means it's time to start working on your taxes. There are several reputable services offering help for free. Scroll below to find out if you are eligible.

These are the sections in today's email: 

  • Veterans' Property Tax Exemption
  • Honoring the Borinqueneers
  • $40 Million For Special Education
  • Free Resources to File Your Taxes
 

Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption

We took a significant step in supporting veterans by passing legislation that provides much-needed tax relief for those who are 100% permanently and totally disabled due to their military service. This bill recognizes the sacrifices made by these veterans and aims to ease their financial burden by reducing property tax obligations, allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned income for essential needs.

By passing this measure, Connecticut reaffirms its commitment to honoring and supporting those who have given so much for our country, ensuring they receive the assistance and recognition they deserve.  
 

Honoring the Borinqueneers

I recently testified in support of House Bill 6724, which honors the Borinqueneers with a special motor vehicle license plate. The Borinqueneers, the 65th Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army, was a unit made up of mostly Puerto Rican soldiers who served with distinction in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Their courage and dedication earned them numerous awards, including the Congressional Gold Medal, which was the only Hispanic unit from the Korean War to receive this honor.

This legislation is a meaningful tribute to the Borinqueneers, recognizing their bravery, devotion to duty, and pioneering military service. Funds raised from the sale of license plates will support Hispanic heritage programs and initiatives across Connecticut.

Please watch the video below as Rep. Geraldo Reyes, one of the co-introducers of the bill, and I explained why this bill is so important.
A special Borinquineers license plate honors their invaluable service.

Connecticut already pays tribute to the Borinquineers with three notable landmarks: a majestic monument in New Britain, and bridges named in their honor in Waterbury and Bridgeport. Introducing a commemorative license plate would be another powerful way to honor this extraordinary military unit and their invaluable service to the United States.
 

$40 Million For Special Education

On Monday, I was proud to vote for a bill allocating $40 million in funding to special education, giving immediate support to more than 140 school districts in our state. Hartford Public Schools will receive approximately $2.3 million as part of this funding, which will help ensure students receive the specialized support they need to thrive.

The governor has expressed concerns regarding this allocation and has suggested the possibility of a line-item veto in order to maintain fiscal guardrails. I will keep you posted on any developments regarding this. However, my colleagues and I have heard loud and clear from communities across Connecticut -- the rising cost of special education is placing an enormous strain on local budgets, and school districts need relief now as they develop their budgets. 

Special education remains a top legislative priority, and we will keep fighting for policies that lower costs, strengthen services, and provide more financial support for our children. Our ultimate goal is to create at sustainable, fully funded system that supports students, families, and educators for years to come.  
 

Free Resources to File Your Taxes

There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.

You can use the IRS Direct File Tool, which is a new option for anyone who lived and earned all their income in Connecticut last year.
Click here for more information on IRS Direct File Tool

The federal government is also offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. Here are some of the eligibility details from VITA:

  • Household income less than $68,000
  • If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
  • No income from a rental property

You can schedule an appointment at The Village South at 331 Wethersfield Avenue, Trinity College at 70 Vernon Street, the Urban League of Greater Hartford at 140 Woodland Street, or many other locations. 

CLICK HERE to book your appointment now!
 


Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save money when filing your taxes!