Legislative Update 4.11

April 11, 2025



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Dear Neighbor,

Spring is coming. No, really. It always does. This year, that means the end of the 2025 legislative session, June 4th, is just around the corner. At the very least, I will be fighting to ensure that good health care, childcare, and education are consistent here in the 46th District. As a native of Norwich, you can be sure of my commitment to making your lives a little better.

Today, that comes in the form of approved funding from the state for improvements to the Norwich Harbor area, Fontaine Field, and the former historic Norwich hospital. I was proud to join fellow delegation members in advocating for this funding. Please see more details below, as well as information on the Easter Egg Hunt at Jenkins Memorial Park next Saturday, and how to get free tax filing help.

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 

 
More Than $670K in Approved Funding Headed to Norwich

I am proud to share that the State Bond Commission today officially approved Small Harbor Grants for  $672,000, including $480,000 for the Heritage Riverfront Park & Walkaway and $192,000 for Howard T. Brown Memorial Park.

As a Norwich native who still resides in the city, it is heartwarming to see the commitment Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission have made to this project. Improvements have already begun in the Harbor area, and these Small Harbor Grants will only add to the progress occurring at Heritage Riverfront Park & Walkaway, which follows along the Yantic River and Howard T. Brown Memorial Park, which offers docks, a boat launch, and fishing.

Many thanks to my colleagues for supporting these improvements and to the Governor and State Bond Commission for approving these funds. The Rose City also received nearly $5.2 million in Community Investment Funding, also approved by the State Bond Commission today, for improvements to Fontaine Field, and to reimagining the city’s portion of the former historic Norwich State Hospital. Great things are happening in our city.

 
Free Easter Egg Hunt @ Jenkins Memorial Park on April 19th

Just a friendly reminder here about the Easter Egg Hunt at Jenkins Memorial Park in Norwich next Saturday, April 19th, beginning at noon! The event is free, and all children 12 and under are welcome.

Many thanks to Black Dragon Martial Arts Academy, LLC, State Sen. Cathy Osten, and the Norwich Police Department for joining me as sponsors for this event. A special thanks goes to Dan Jenkins for being a great host, partner, and for his commitment to giving back to the community
 
UConn Women's Basketball Victory Parade Moved to Sunday

Congrats to the UConn women on winning Natty No. 12! The Victory Parade and Rally in Hartford has been moved to Sunday at 1 p.m.. See the map below for details.
 
Tax-Filing Deadline Fast-Approaching

With the tax deadline fast approaching - April 15th - now is the time to take action if you haven’t filed yet. Connecticut residents have access to a variety of free resources to help complete both state and federal tax returns accurately and on time.

Whether you need in-person assistance, prefer online filing, or need guidance on available tax credits, these services are here to ensure you meet the deadline with less stress and confusion.

The IRS Direct File Tool is an option for anyone who lived and earned their income in Connecticut last year. You can use this resource if you have one or more of the following types of income:

  • W-2 (income from employer)
  • 1099-G (unemployment compensation
  • SSA-1099 (Social Security benefits)
  • 1099-R (income from employer-sponsored pension and retirement account)
  • 1099-SA (distributions for qualified medical expenses from Health Savings Accounts)
  • 1099-INT (interest income)
Click here to get started

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is staffed by IRS-certified volunteers who are specifically trained to help qualifying individuals, including low- to moderate-income taxpayers, people with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency, prepare and file both federal and state tax returns accurately. They can assist in claiming valuable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which can lead to a significant increase in your refund.

To access VITA services, taxpayers can visit an in-person VITA site, typically located at community centers, libraries, and nonprofit organizations. Many VITA sites also offer convenient drop-off or virtual options, allowing you to submit documents securely and have a preparer complete your return remotely.

Here are some of the eligibility requirements for VITA:

  • Household income less than $68,000
  • If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
  • No income from a rental property

CLICK HERE to book your appointment now!


Don’t miss out on other opportunities below to save money when filing your taxes:

 
$30 Million for CT Home Funds Program 

Introducing CT Home Funds! This means an investment in:

  • The Connecticut Home Improvement Program
  • The Time to Own – Rehabilitation Program
  • The Homeownership Construction Program
 
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is a time to stand in solidarity with survivors and advocate for change.

Through the power of legislation, we’re making progress, closing legal gaps, expanding protections, and ensuring survivors have access to resources and support.

Through the power of legislation, we’re making progress, closing legal gaps, expanding protections, and ensuring survivors have access to resources and support.
 
Chag Sameach!
 
Autism Awareness @ The Capitol on April 28th
 
Senior Day @ The Capitol on May 8th
 
May 12th: 4th Annual CGA Kickball Classic to Benefit CT Foodshare

The Connecticut General Assembly is coming together to support Connecticut Foodshare!
 
Don’t miss the 2025 CGA Kickball Classic.

📅 May 12, 2025
⏰ 4:30 PM
📍 Dunkin’ Park in Hartford
🎟️ $10
Grab your ticket today HERE

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