Dan Gaiewski

Monday is Memorial Day - a day of remembering and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. I hope you'll take the opportunity this long weekend to reflect on the bravery of those who gave their lives so we can live and prosper in our great nation, and to spend time connecting with your loved ones.

It is also worth reminding yourself to live a life that is meaningful and worthy of the sacrifices so many have made.

I hope you and your friends and family have a safe and meaningful Memorial Day.

This week I was joined by the New London delegation to give members of the New London Senior Center a tour of the Capitol and show them how the legislative process works here in Hartford. Our senior center is a staple of our community, and I was so proud to engage with its residents and hear what is on their minds.

It has been a busy week Representing Groton and New London.

I started the week receiving a tour from Principal Tara Amatrudo and Aquaculture teachers Eric Litvinoff and Mike Guyot at LEARN's Marine Science HS in Groton on Monday. Thank you to the amazing Team at LEARN for the tour and discussion.

This week, the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, 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.

Due to repeated exposure to smoke, toxic chemicals, and carcinogens in the line of duty, evidence has shown that firefighters have a greater prevalence of cancer than the general population. These heroes have high-risk jobs and keep our communities safe - the last thing they need to worry about is navigating their healthcare.

I am happy to announce that, effective May 1, 2025, the State of Connecticut is expanding 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.

I was so proud to stand in solidarity with hundreds of striking Electric Boat employees this week who are fighting for a new contract that recognizes the value they bring to their company.

Policies like giving employees fair wages and a share of the profits made from this billion-dollar success story in Groton is a reasonable approach that will attract even more residents to our town, and I hope to see a contract signed that all parties support!

Have you outgrown a 10-month traditional schooling program? New London Public Schools is home to a unique, multi-aged year-round learning experience for our youngest learners. Out-of-district students from all cities and towns in Connecticut are welcome. Information sessions are scheduled for April 21, 25 and 28. For more information call 860-444-3180 to register or for more information.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation began work on bridge strengthening for the Gold Star Memorial Bridge on Tuesday that will be completed on Nov. 1, 2025.

There will be a left lane closure on I-95 southbound across the Gold Star Memorial Bridge from Tuesday, March 25 to November 1, 2025. Traffic control signing patterns will guide motorists through the work zone.

Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.