Supporting First Responders & Protecting Children on School Buses

June 18, 2026
I would like to wish all the dads, grandfathers, and father figures who provide support and love to their close ones a Happy Father's Day. Your dedication, encouragement, and example help build stronger families and stronger communities.

Here are the sections and topics in this week's email:

  • Increasing Benefits for First Responders
  • Protecting Children on School Buses
  • Recognition for Early Childhood Advocacy
  • In The News: Protecting Our Kids Online
  • Stage 2 Drought in New Haven County
  • What's Your Rep Been Up To?
  • Funding for Derby Greenway
  • Derby Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Hamden
  • Orange Events Calendar
  • Upcoming Events in Woodbridge
 

Increasing Benefits for First Responders

Governor Ned Lamont signed Public Act 26-12 into law, a House priority bill that I proudly supported, to strengthen recruitment and retention efforts for Connecticut’s first responders.

The new law expands benefits for state and local police officers, firefighters, correction officers, EMS personnel, and National Guard members.

Some of the benefits include:

  • Tuition Waivers: Free tuition at Connecticut State Colleges & Universities for eligible police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel.
  • Mortgage Assistance: A new program to help first responders buy homes in the communities they serve.
  • Health Coverage for Survivors: Access to state employee health insurance plan for surviving spouses and dependent children of certain public safety personnel who died in the line of duty.
  • National Guard Employment Support: Enhanced employment assistance services and an annual job fair for current and former National Guard members.

Our public safety professionals put themselves on the line every day to protect our communities. These benefits recognize their service and help ensure Connecticut can recruit and retain the dedicated workforce our residents depend on.
 

Protecting Children on School Buses

I was proud to vote for a bill that will soon be a new law that strengthens protections for children going to and from school by holding drivers accountable when they fail to stop for school buses.

Beginning October 1, 2026, drivers who violate the state’s school bus stopping law for a third time will face a six-month suspension of their driver’s license. Drivers must stop at least 10 feet from the front or back of a school bus displaying its flashing red lights and remain there until the lights are off.

Violations include a $450 fine for the first offense and a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both for a subsequent offense. This new law adds another important layer of accountability.
 

Recognition for Early Childhood Advocacy

I was honored to receive a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of my leadership and advocacy for Connecticut's Birth to Three program and the children and families it serves.

As Chair of the Early Childhood Caucus, I have the privilege of working alongside dedicated educators, therapists, advocates, parents, and caregivers who are committed to helping young children reach their full potential. The Birth to Three program plays a vital role in providing early services that support infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities during some of the most important years of their lives.

This recognition is a testament to the collaborative efforts of so many people who work every day to ensure children and families have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. I am especially thankful to the State Interagency Coordinating Council for this honor and for its ongoing commitment to strengthening early childhood services across Connecticut.
 

In The News

Milford-Orange Times: "Protecting Our Kids Online"
 

Stage 2 Drought in New Haven County

New Haven, Fairfield, and Middlesex counties are under a Stage 2 drought advisory to raise awareness that if drier conditions persist, there is a possibility that this emerging drought event will intensify.

Individuals and businesses are encouraged to take voluntary measures to help minimize the impact of future drought. These measures may include:

  • Reducing outdoor irrigation during the daylight hours
  • Minimizing overall water use by fixing leaky plumbing and fixtures
  • Running dishwashers and washing machines only when full
Click here to learn more
 

What's Your Rep Been Up To?

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the Strawberry Festivals in Orange and Woodbridge and enjoyed great music, delicious food, and some history. Thank you to FCC Woodbridge, Orange Congregational Church, Troop 907, and many others for making these events so memorable each year.

Mark your calendar for Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 13! More than 200 attractions across the state, including museums, arts and cultural venues, historic sites, farms, and restaurants, will offer free or discounted admission and special promotions.

My daughter Evie and I recently dropped off supplies at Woodbridge Regional Animal Control to help its staff and volunteers care for more than 20 animals from a troubling situation in Beacon Falls.

The sudden arrival of so many dogs, cats, and other animals has placed an unexpected demand on the facility's resources, making community support especially important. We were grateful for the opportunity to help and to see firsthand the compassion and dedication of the people caring for these animals.

CLICK HERE if you would like to donate to Woodbridge Regional Animal Control.
 

Funding for Derby Greenway

I am pleased to welcome $555,385 in state funding for the Derby Greenway an investment that will enhance public safety and improve the experience for residents and visitors who enjoy this popular trial.

The funding will support the installation of modern lighting and security upgrades along the Greenway, helping to create a safer, more accessible, and more inviting environment for walkers, runners, cyclists, and families. These improvements will increase visibility, deter crime, and allow more people to enjoy the Greenway during evening hours.
Click here to learn more
 

Derby Events Calendar

Check out the events and community calendar in Derby below.

Derby Public Library will kick off its Summer Reading Program in style. Everyone is welcome to join the free festivities from 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. on Monday, June 22. There will be retro video games, a classic summer cookout, live music, a book sale, library tours, and so much more.
Connecticut Foodshare will give away free food to the community on Tuesday, June 30 from 2:15 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church on Elizabeth Street. Organizers will hand out tickets at 2 p.m. to everyone in line. Make sure to bring your own bag for the food.
Derby Community Calendar
 

Upcoming Events in Hamden

Look at the flyers below to learn more about the upcoming events in Hamden.

Check out the flyers and community calendar in Orange below.
More Hamden Events
 

Orange Events Calendar

Check out the flyers and community calendar in Orange below.

The Pickle Spot is hosting its second annual Hello Summer Tournament on Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7. You can register for a variety of events including women's and mixed doubles. CLICK HERE to sign up!

The Orange Community Farmers' Market kicks off on Thursday, June 25 at the Pavilion of the High Plains Community Center. Products are only the best certified and Connecticut grown, ranging from bakery products, eggs, flowers, milk, meats, soaps, plants, in-season vegetables, as well as crafts and services! The farmers’ market will be open every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Orange Community Calendar
 

Upcoming Events in Woodbridge

Take a look at the upcoming events to see what’s happening in Woodbridge.

Massaro Community Farm is hosting a Summer Solstice Soiree to celebrate the longest day of the year. There will be delicious food, refreshing drinks, and the beauty of a summer night under the stars.

Date: Saturday, June 20
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Join the Woodbridge community for a signature celebration honoring America’s 250th anniversary. This family-friendly event will take place on on Saturday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the new Community & Cultural Center and throughout the surrounding Town Campus. You can expect historical exhibits, music and storytelling, lawn games, community activities, food, and more.
Woodbridge Community Calendar