Kevin Ryan

The legislative session officially concluded last Wednesday, and we got a lot done for the people of Connecticut. I can't wait to tell you about some of the amazing bills we passed, starting with our two-year budget.

For too long, Connecticut's special education model has faced fundamental flaws that prevented all students from receiving the proper education they deserve. With our recent passage of HB 5001: An Act Concerning the Quality and Delivery of Special Education Services in Connecticut, we are taking important steps to reform this system.

This bill, which passed 148-0 in the House on a bipartisan basis, makes historic investments for students in special education, delivers better access to services, and provides cost controls and greater transparency.

This week, the House passed an education bill that honors civically engaged students, reforms crisis response drills, and much more.

HB 7009 establishes the Connecticut State Seal of Civics Education and Engagement, which recognizes graduating high school seniors for their exceptional achievement in civics.

This 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 on climate solutions.

I hope you'll join me and several of my colleagues for a Montville and Bozrah community forum next Tuesday, April 1 from 5:30-7pm at the Montville Police Department's Public Safety Room (911 Norwich-New London Tpke., Montville).

We will be discussing the work being done at the State Capitol, what to expect for the rest of this year's session, and most important, the issues that are on your mind. I hope to see you there!

On Monday, I was proud to vote for a bill allocating $40 million in funding to special education, giving immediate support to more than 140 school districts in our state and helping to provide the highest quality education for our students.

These critical resources will help ensure students receive the specialized support they need to thrive.

Veterans – I'm reaching out with an invitation to an important public hearing hosted by the Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 11:30 a.m. in Room 1C of the LOB, with virtual access via Zoom and YouTube Live.

There will also be a FREE tour of the CT Legislative Office Building and the Capitol at 9:15 a.m.

This Wednesday, I was proud to be sworn in for another term as State Representative at the Connecticut General Assembly. It was great to see my colleagues again and begin planning how we are going to help the people of Connecticut this session.