Matt Blumenthal

I am pleased to report that responsible budgeting and major structural changes made to pension and teachers' retirement plans are putting Connecticut on much more solid fiscal ground and saving taxpayers billions in debt payments.

With many families in Connecticut facing added financial strain due to rising prices, the legislature went into special session earlier this week to provide some relief. A bipartisan bill passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Lamont extends the current suspension of the gasoline tax, provides additional funding for energy assistance programs, and continues premium pay for frontline workers.

A recent report detailed that throughout Connecticut there was an increase of 13% in overall homelessness from 2021 to 2022.

The state has announced a five-year, $46.6 million investment to expand small business assistance programs across Connecticut, specifically supporting small business owners who may have previously experienced barriers to accessing financial support.This initiative will also support startup businesses, which is great news for our economy.

While working can be a source of income, it can also be an opportunity to become more independent, gain skills, cultivate relationships in your community, and feel empowered. Everyone should be able to find meaningful work. In Connecticut, we remain committed to ensuring workers with disabilities can access job training and workplaces that are inclusive and supportive.

This weekend, several new laws in Connecticut will go into effect on October 1. These laws are a result of my colleagues' hard work during the 2022 session. Below are just some of the laws that will take effect and what they mean for you.

President Biden announced he will sign an executive order which will forgive up to $10,000 of student loan debt for individuals making less than $125,000 per year (and couples earning less than $250,000). Borrowers who received a Pell Grant may be eligible to receive up to $20,000 in loan forgiveness.

Connecticut's 2022 Sales Tax Free Week runs from August 21 to August 27. This is a great opportunity to take the kids back-to-school shopping or to treat yourself or your loved ones while saving money.