Legislative Update 5.8

May 8, 2025



 

View this email in your browser

Dear Neighbor,

With the House in session this week, I have had the opportunity to pass some important legislation helping New Britain residents and the entire state of Connecticut. I'm proud to be part of a caucus that's putting our money where our mouths are - passing bills focused on improving the environment, supporting workers' rights, and showing our veterans and firefighters the respect they deserve. 

Looking ahead, there are some upcoming public health events in our community that you could take advantage of - those include free screenings and mental health assistance. In this week's update, I'll go into detail on all that and more. 

As always, feel free to call me at 1-800-842-8267 or email me at Manny.Sanchez@cga.ct.gov if you have any questions or concerns. Also, please like my official Facebook Page for regular updates.

Sincerely,

Manny Sanchez
State Representative

 
In Support of Warehouse Workers, HB6907 Passes in House

As Chair of the Labor and Public Employees Committee, I was proud House Democrats took action on Wednesday to ensure that warehouse workers are treated with respect by passing legislation that limits and provides clarity when employers use production quotas.

HB6907, AN ACT CONCERNING THE USE OF QUOTAS BY WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTION CENTERS ensures that:

  • Employers must provide quota information upon hiring an employee
  • If quotas change, workers must be notified
  • Employees cannot be retaliated against for requesting work records
  • Quotas cannot be used to inhibit workers from using the restroom or taking an entitled break

Valuing people over profits is just good public policy.

 
A Practical and Affordable Climate Bill

Last week, the House voted in favor of HB 5004: An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors.

As our state is increasingly feeling the impacts of climate change, it is the legislature's job to enact meaningful change for the safety of our residents and to emerge as a leader in climate solutions.

This bill takes a comprehensive, practical, and equitable approach to protecting our environment - from homes and schools to jobs and land. It sets clear goals, removes barriers, and puts people and sustainability first, all through the lens of affordability.

Key provisions of the bill include:

  • Setting new goals for greenhouse gas emissions reductions—including an economy-wide net-zero target by 2050—without imposing costs on ratepayers
  • Supporting clean energy jobs and businesses through tax incentives, rebates, and a council to guide workforce transitions
  • Developing strategic plans and expanding access to clean technologies
  • Expanding loan and grant programs to include more climate-smart projects and ensuring funds benefit low-income residents and renters
  • Developing plans that address the triple impact of reducing energy costs, lowering emissions, and supporting climate resilience
  • Encouraging nature-based solutions for reaching our greenhouse gas reduction and other climate goals

The time is now to pass impactful legislation to counter the effects of climate change.

HB 5004 is a wide-ranging measure that focuses on affordability, energy efficiency, and developing a clean economy, and I was proud to cast my vote in favor.

The bill must now pass the Senate and get signed into law by the governor.

 
Connecticut Hero Act

Last Wednesday marked the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, with the fall of Saigon, the Connecticut House of Representatives unanimously passed (146-0-5) what we call the “HERO Act.”
 
The HERO Act (HB 6442) is the result of a bipartisan effort and is a comprehensive package of legislation that reflects collaboration, listening, and a deep, collective respect for those who wore the uniform and served our country.

Among the bill’s components:

  • Designate November as Veterans’ Month to reflect on and celebrate their military service
  • Waive fees for the Purple Heart license plate, ensuring accessibility for those who have earned one of our nation’s highest military honors
  • Create two new commemorative plates - one honoring women veterans and another recognizing the Borinqueneers - providing long-lasting public recognition of their historic contributions
  • Free license renewals for veterans
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs will evaluate how to improve and address shortcomings in available dental services for veterans
  • Accelerate nursing home placement for service-connected veterans
  • Improve school transitions for military families with children requiring special education services

 
Our veterans were willing to sacrifice everything – including their lives – for this country. They deserve to be seen, valued, and never forgotten.

 
Expanded: Firefighter Cancer Relief Program

Last Thursday, the State of Connecticut expanded the benefits it provides to firefighters to include free, enhanced cancer screenings. That means More than 900 firefighters enrolled in the state employee health plan and Partnership Plan will now have free access to a comprehensive, full-body scan once every two years.
 
Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes, and these regular screenings will help keep them healthy and keep their minds at ease.
 
 Any firefighter enrolled on the state employee health plan or Partnership Plan who is seeking more information can visit carecompass.ct.gov to connect with a representative, schedule an appointment, and find providers in their area.
 
Health Event on May 10th – Please Share! 

I wanted to remind you about an important event coming up on Saturday in Hartford, which offers valuable health services, including on-site mobile mammograms.

Many people face challenges when it comes to accessing these essential health services, and this event aims to help. If you’d like to schedule a mammogram, please text your name and age to (860) 839-4570.

Please, feel free to share this information with anyone you think might benefit from this opportunity! Thank you for helping spread the word and support for our community!
 
4th Annual CGA Kickball Classic is Monday, May 12th

The Connecticut General Assembly is coming together to support Connecticut Foodshare!
 
Don’t miss the 2025 CGA Kickball Classic.

  • May 12, 2025
  • 4:30 PM
  • Dunkin’ Park in Hartford
  • $10

Grab your ticket HERE.

 
3rd Annual Mental Health & Wellness Day is Tuesday, May 20th

You are invited to attend the 3rd Annual Mental Health & Wellness Fair at the Capitol on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, and May 5th being Maternal Mental Health Day. The day kicks off with a press conference at the North Lobby of the State Capitol at 9:30 AM, and the fair will begin shortly after at 10:00 AM.
 
May is AANHPI Heritage Month 

May is AANHPI Heritage Month (short for Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month). A time to learn the real history and spotlight the cultures, stories & legacies of millions across the U.S. and right here in Connecticut.

From historic resilience to modern impact, let’s celebrate what’s often overlooked. 

Facebook
Facebook

Website
Website

Email
Email

Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences