This week, in between House sessions, I had the opportunity to host a group of politically engaged young adults at the Capitol. The State Conference NAACP Youth & College Division came and delivered presentations, learned about the legislative process, and formed a connection with their representatives.
It's an honor to be part of a program that amplifies the voices of young people and fosters a passion for civic engagement in our state's young people.
Meantime, things are heating up in the House. Over the past two weeks, we've passed several bills improving medical benefits for firefighters, protecting the environment, and more. In this week's update we'll go over the legislative priorities we've addressed and what's still to come.
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.
As vice chair of the Labor and Public Employees Committee, I was proud Chair Manny Sanchez and fellow House Democrats took action on Wednesday to ensure that warehouse workers are treated with respect by passing legislation that limits and provides clarity when employers use production quotas!
I want to thank the State Conference NAACP Youth & College Division for joining me on Wednesday for our inaugural Youth & College Legislative Day at the Legislative Office Building!
This youth-led event gathered high school and college students, advisors, and community leaders from across Connecticut for a day focused on civic engagement, policy education, and direct connection with lawmakers.
This program is designed to ensure that youth voices are not only heard but centered in policy conversations that shape their communities and futures. I made opening remarks. Members of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, of which I am Vice-chair, also spoke to the group.
The day also included youth-led policy presentations and advocacy, legislative process briefings by the Office of Legislative Management (OLM), Office of Legislative Research (OLR), Office of Fiscal Analysis (OFA), Legislative Commissioners’ Office (LCO), and Office of Legislative Library (OLL) and networking opportunities with legislators and agency representatives.
Our inaugural event was a huge success. I am already looking forward to Year Two! I received a nice honor below. A Special thanks to Scot X. Esdaile, a member of the National Board of Directors and President of the Connecticut State Conference of NAACP Branches.
A special thank you from - and to - the NAACP Connecticut Chapter.
Last week, the House voted in favor of HB 5004: An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors.
As our state is increasingly feeling the impacts of climate change, it is the legislature's job to enact meaningful change for the safety of our residents and to emerge as a leader in climate solutions.
This bill takes a comprehensive, practical, and equitable approach to protecting our environment - from homes and schools to jobs and land. It sets clear goals, removes barriers, and puts people and sustainability first, all through the lens of affordability.
Setting new goals for greenhouse gas emissions reductions—including an economy-wide net-zero target by 2050—without imposing costs on ratepayers
Supporting clean energy jobs and businesses through tax incentives, rebates, and a council to guide workforce transitions
Developing strategic plans and expanding access to clean technologies
Expanding loan and grant programs to include more climate-smart projects and ensuring funds benefit low-income residents and renters
Developing plans that address the triple impact of reducing energy costs, lowering emissions, and supporting climate resilience
Encouraging nature-based solutions for reaching our greenhouse gas reduction and other climate goals
The time is now to pass impactful legislation to counter the effects of climate change.
HB 5004 is a wide-ranging measure that focuses on affordability, energy efficiency, and developing a clean economy, and I was proud to cast my vote in favor.
The bill must now pass the Senate and get signed into law by the governor.
Last Wednesday marked the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, with the fall of Saigon, the Connecticut House of Representatives unanimously passed (146-0-5) what we call the “HERO Act.” The HERO Act (HB 6442) is the result of a bipartisan effort and is a comprehensive package of legislation that reflects collaboration, listening, and a deep, collective respect for those who wore the uniform and served our country.
Among the bill’s components:
Designate November as Veterans’ Month to reflect on and celebrate their military service
Waive fees for the Purple Heart license plate, ensuring accessibility for those who have earned one of our nation’s highest military honors
Create two new commemorative plates - one honoring women veterans and another recognizing the Borinqueneers - providing long-lasting public recognition of their historic contributions
Free license renewals for veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs will evaluate how to improve and address shortcomings in available dental services for veterans
Accelerate nursing home placement for service-connected veterans
Improve school transitions for military families with children requiring special education services
Our veterans were willing to sacrifice everything – including their lives – for this country. They deserve to be seen, valued, and never forgotten.
I proudly brought out SB 1426, An Act Making Changes To The Firefighters Cancer Relief Fund which passed in the House on Wednesday. The bill has already passed in the Senate and is awaiting the Governor's signature. With this bill, the State of Connecticut expanded the benefits it provides to firefighters to include free, enhanced cancer screenings.
That means more than 900 firefighters enrolled in the state employee health plan and Partnership Plan will now have free access to a comprehensive, full-body scan once every two years.
Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes, and these regular screenings will help keep them healthy and keep their minds at ease. Any firefighter enrolled on the state employee health plan or Partnership Plan who is seeking more information can visit carecompass.ct.gov to connect with a representative, schedule an appointment, and find providers in their area.
Big news for CT's future workforce: The new e-Apprenticeship system is here! ️This is more than just a tech upgrade - it’s a game-changer for equity and access. This new system will make it easier for more people across the state to connect with paid, hands-on training in fields like healthcare, tech, and the trades…no matter their zip code. Businesses and workers looking to participate in the program can learn more by clicking on the image below.
You are invited to attend the 3rd Annual Mental Health & Wellness Fair at the Capitol on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, and May 5th being Maternal Mental Health Day. The day kicks off with a press conference at the North Lobby of the State Capitol at 9:30 AM, and the fair will begin shortly after at 10:00 AM.
May is AANHPI Heritage Month (short for Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month). A time to learn the real history and spotlight the cultures, stories & legacies of millions across the U.S. and right here in Connecticut.
From historic resilience to modern impact, let’s celebrate what’s often overlooked.
