House Dems Legislative Priorities, Black and Puerto Rican Caucus Focus for 2025

February 18, 2025

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Dear Neighbor,

I hope this email finds you well. Please be mindful of the temperatures outside, especially at night. A severe cold weather protocol was activated for Connecticut on Sunday. Please stay warm and stay safe. I have included several items this week I believe will be of help and interest to many of you, from our legislative priorities for the 2025 session to where to find car discounts for seniors. Enjoy!
 
Around the Capitol
 
House Democrats: Priorities for 2025 Legislative Session
These priorities reflect our recognition that special education is the biggest budget wildcard for municipalities, increased housing and decreased homelessness are critical to the state's future economic health, rising costs and a reduced workforce are making childcare hard to obtain for many families, and protecting our environment has never been more critical.
 
Black and Puerto Rican Caucus Legislative Priorities for 2025
The Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, a legislative body of which I am a proud member and Vice Chair, has unveiled its priorities for the 2025 legislative session, which ends in June. The priorities are:
  • Education & Career Advancement
  • Justice
  • Housing
  • Health and Human Services
  • Economic Empowerment and Stability

I spoke on behalf of the caucus at a press conference in Hartford last week, Please click on the video below to hear my comments.
 
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Click HERE for a closer look at the priorities and their areas of focus.
 
Get Involved: This Week's Public Hearings
 
CT Expands Access to Contraception
The training program, developed by the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, received final approval this week from the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. The continuing education program is expected to take four hours to complete and is optional for all pharmacists. There are 671 licensed pharmacies and more than 6,500 licensed pharmacists in the state who are eligible to complete the course and begin offering this service.
 
In addition, the state’s first vending machines providing access to emergency contraception and other over-the-counter medications are also now available in Connecticut.
 
Celebrating Black History Month
The contributions and experiences of Black people are relevant not just to the past but are actively shaping the present day. Black history is now.
 
Apply Now For Women-Owned and Child Care Business Grants
Women-owned and childcare businesses across Connecticut have an exciting opportunity to secure funding to support and grow their companies. The Women’s Business Development Council is now accepting applications for two grant programs designed to help businesses at various stages of development.
The Ignite Grant Program offers grants of up to $10,000 for local women-owned businesses. To qualify, a business must:
  • Be in operation for at least two years
  • Have annual revenues between $25,000 and $2 million.

The application deadline is open through Monday, March 10. Learn more about the Ignite Grant RIGHT HERE.   

The Child Care Business Opportunity Fund provides grants of up to $25,000 to licensed and aspiring child care businesses. The program supports businesses at different stages, from start-ups to those looking to expand. You can apply now through Monday, March 3. CLICK HERE for more details.

Live information sessions are available throughout the application period. These sessions will cover grant requirements and provide an opportunity to ask questions. Register for an information session HERE. 

Don’t miss out on these valuable opportunities by applying today!
 
Car Insurance Discount For Seniors 
Affordable car insurance is a necessity for people of all ages, but it holds particular significance for individuals who are 60 and older. Because this demographic often faces unique challenges and mobility needs, ensuring access to reasonably priced car insurance is vital.

Driving is often key to maintaining independence, especially in areas where public transportation is unreliable. For older adults, a car often represents a lifeline to healthcare appointments, grocery stores, social engagements, and visits with loved ones. Ensuring affordable car insurance allows seniors to remain active in their communities.

Many people aged 60 and older live on fixed incomes, and rising insurance premiums can strain their budgets. Locking into an affordable insurance rate would provide financial stability for seniors.
 
By prioritizing and offering car insurance affordability, we can create a more inclusive society that values the mobility and independence of all its members, regardless of age.

As always, if I can be of assistance, please reach out to me at 860-240-8585 or email me at Derell.Wilson@cga.ct.gov.

Sincerely,

Derell Wilson
State Representative 
 
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