Juan R. Candelaria

It was an honor to host our 10th Annual Orgullo y Poder Latino Legislative Summit.
Every year, this event inspires me and reminds me of the strength of our coalition. Without their passion, we would not be such a powerful and inspirational force.

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to extend a formal invitation to attend the Orgullo y Poder 10th Annual Connecticut Latino Legislative Summit next Tuesday, April 23 from 11am-4pm at the Connecticut State Capitol (210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106) in the Old Appropriations Room on the third floor of the Capitol.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, street takeovers have become a national issue, including here in Connecticut. This cannot become the new normal. These takeovers by the illegal use of all-terrain and other types of vehicles, pose a significant threat to public safety, endangering participants, innocent bystanders, and law enforcement officials.

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives took bipartisan and unanimous action to help cities and towns regain control of their streets as we voted 148-0 to pass HB 5413 to control takeovers, which have proven to be a concern for many of our residents.

The legacy of excellence continues! Congratulations to our unstoppable Huskies on a back-to-back NCAA championship titles! Let's go for three!

House Democrats have made it a top priority during this legislative session to address the issue of childcare affordability. HB 5002 focuses on making childcare more accessible and affordable for families through long-term strategic investments. This is a significant measure that could positively impact many families in our community.

This week, two of the House Democrats's caucus priority bills passed out of committee: HB 5001 - an omnibus bill that further supports our seniors, and HB 5004 - an ambitious omnibus bill to address climate change. I want to take the time to tell you a bit about each bill.

Connecticut's Social Equity Council - which makes sure the adult-use cannabis program is grown equitably - announced a Notice of Funds Availability and will receive proposals to administer reinvestment funds derived from Connecticut's adult-use cannabis industry.

Early voting options are now available thanks to the work of the Connecticut General Assembly last session, and later this month, voters in the state will take to the polls to vote in the 2024 presidential primary.