Juan R. Candelaria

Heads up! Aquarion Water Company, the largest investor-owned water company in New England, is again seeking non-profit organizations, businesses and individuals to honor for outstanding volunteer efforts in conserving and improving Connecticut’s natural environment.

The National Hispanic Caucus, (NHCSL) will award the John S. Martinez (JSM) Leadership Scholarship to 11 Latino public high school students in my district. The scholarship is awarded to students recognized for their capacity to lead and serve and their community commitment. Education is the foundation of a strong society. Don’t miss this opportunity to get one of these $3,000 grants. For more information please visit http://www.nhcsl.org/jsm-scholarship-program-2016.php. Application deadline is Friday, March 18, 2016.

I introduced a measure, HB 5119 to make feminine hygiene products exempt from the state sales tax. Taxing tampons and menstrual pads is not only a gender biased injustice, but doesn’t make sense. How is it that these essential items, purchased by half of the population, are not considered a necessity? We have to stop penalizing females. I am adding my voice to the many women who have decried this disparity, particularly women with limited means who are disproportionately impacted by this tax!

This session, I introduced HB 5209, a bill concerning the regulation, taxation and use of marijuana. I am working to engage my leadership in a conversation to at least allow a public hearing on this bill.

The Hartford Courant recently reported that a 4-year tuition increase plan is being considered by the University Of Connecticut Board Of Trustees. As I have stated in the past, tuition increases place yet another stumbling block in the way of already struggling minority students.

I joined the Spanish American Merchants Association, Inc. (SAMA), Mayor Toni Harp, local officials and friends for a ribbon cutting ceremony in New Haven and the welcoming of various small businesses to the New Haven area.

I am honored to have been recognized and presented with an award from our friends at the Center for Latino Progress for our work and commitment on behalf of the many English language learners across the state.

Rep. Juan Candelaria once again led the House to passage of a measure that would simplify the process for undocumented immigrants when applying for a drive-only CT license. The bill, which had bipartisan support, would allow undocumented immigrants to present birth certificates and foreign national identification cards as a secondary form of proof of identity when applying for a driver's license.