Gary Turco

As we gear up for the new legislative session set to begin Jan. 8, I want to wish everyone a safe, healthy and happy new year.

I was recently reappointed Deputy Majority Leader by House Majority Leader Jason Rojas. I was also appointed Vice-Chair of the General Law Committee, which has added responsibilities including oversight over consumer protection, gambling, cannabis, and alcohol.

Winter and colder temperatures mean rising energy costs, but there are several programs available to residents struggling to afford their heating bills.

Whether it be state assistance, protection from service shutoff, payment plans or energy efficiency improvements, there is a program that can help almost everyone.

Effective January 1, 2025, the hourly minimum wage in the state will increase from $15.69 to $16.35.

A 2019 law (PA 19-4) passed by the legislature aligns Connecticut’s minimum wage to a percentage change in an economic indicator called the federal employment cost index. According to the Department of Labor the employment cost index rose 4.2% for the current fiscal year ending June 30, resulting in a 66-cent increase to the state’s minimum wage.

Connecticut has one of the best health insurance marketplaces in the country. Now is the time to make sure you and your family are covered for your healthcare needs! Free help to sign up is available online, in person, and over the phone. Go to AccessHealthCT.com and click "Get Help" or call 1-855-805-4325.

There is good news for low and moderate-income families in Connecticut looking to buy their first home as a popular homeowner assistance program is now accepting a new round of applicants.

The Time to Own program provides forgivable loans for down payments and closing costs and has enabled individuals and families to achieve the dream of homeownership, fostering long-term financial stability and contributing to stronger communities throughout the state.

In addition to selecting candidates for public office, voters are being asked to decide if absentee ballots should be expanded to all voters.

All year round, but particularly this month, together let’s bring attention to and raise awareness about the tragedy caused by breast cancer and domestic violence.