Travis Simms

Connecticut cannot thrive economically or socially if we do not build more housing. That is why I was proud to have attended the ceremony at Oak Grove in Norwalk last week, where Gov. Ned Lamont signed HB8002, a broad bill that addresses the state's housing shortage.

Attorney General Tong said this week he will obey a court order prohibiting the United States Department of Agriculture from forcing states to turn over data on SNAP recipients.

This week, the Connecticut House of Representatives suffered a devastating loss with the passing of State Representative Kevin Ryan. First elected in 1993, Rep. Ryan faithfully represented the 139th District for more than three decades.

We've had a lot of statewide issues lately, so it's nice to focus on local news for a change.

This week, the legislature convened in a special session to take up several pressing issues, most notably approving $500 million to safeguard vital services like food assistance, health care, energy support, housing, and child care against possible federal cuts.

There is still a lot of uncertainty coming from the federal government on whether SNAP benefits will be funded through the end of the federal government shutdown. In the meantime, if you are in need of food assistance, local pantries across the state are providing essential emergency assistance. Pantries are also seeking donations to help meet the growing demand.

Early voting has started, and will end Sunday, Nov. 2. Hours are daily (Sunday through Saturday) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Tuesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 30, which have extended hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Same-day registration will be available during early voting hours and on Election Day.  The early voting location in Norwalk is City Hall, located at 125 East Ave. Absentee Ballots must be received by 8 p.m., before closing on Nov. 4, Election Day.  Please mail your ballot early so it's received before polls close on Nov. 4. 

One of the major achievements of the past legislative session was the passage HB7162, which updated Connecticut's antiquated towing laws.