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Dear Neighbor,
We have officially made it to March, which means Spring is on the horizon! I hope you are looking forward to the warm weather like I am.
Other than Spring, March is an amazing month for awareness, from women's history and developmental disabilities to raising awareness for a disease and more.
In this week's newsletter, you will find many other important topics to support, including:
- Latest Omnibus Bill
- Recent government, election, and school legislations
- Civic Learning Week
- Bottle Redemption Fraud
- Reminder: Student Loan Reimbursement Program
- Access Health CT Special Enrollment Period
- March is for Awareness
- Biggins Books
Have a great weekend! Remember, Daylight Saving Time begins. Don't forget to set your clock ahead one hour on Sunday, beginning at 2 a.m.
Sincerely,
Patrick Biggins
State Representative
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| You can always watch the public hearings on CT-N |
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Last week, the House and Senate passed an omnibus bill comprised of legislation introduced last year. Part of that bill includes a number of education provisions that passed by a wide margin in the House last year and unfortunately was not voted on in the Senate.
One part of this bill improves the state’s practice of crisis response drills to improve students’ physical safety and properly balance their psychological wellbeing. While schools must be prepared for an emergency, organizers must ensure these drills are conducted effectively and responsibly. |
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One part of this bill improves the state’s practice of crisis response drills to improve students’ physical safety and properly balance their psychological wellbeing. While schools must be prepared for an emergency, organizers must ensure these drills are conducted effectively and responsibly.
Another section creates a state seal of civics education and engagement to be earned on high school diplomas for students who demonstrate civics mastery in the classroom and community engagement.
At a time when civic engagement is alarmingly low in our country, this recognition will encourage students to learn more about the way our government works and the role they play in shaping society.
This seal also sends a powerful message that civics isn't just a class to pass; it's a way to make a difference and give back to your community.
Other key aspects of this bill include:
- Addressing antisemitism in schools
- Adding additional public reporting on student outcomes for our multi-lingual learners
- Providing curriculum on Islamic and Arab Studies
- Phases out the waiver for children under the age of 5 to begin kindergarten early.
- Raising the standard for when a student in pre-K to grade 2 can get an out-of-school suspension
- Requiring same-day notification of any use of restraint or seclusion of a student.
The legislation we passed is an important bill that encourages civic engagement and protects our students' mental health, and it was an honor to speak in support!
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We advanced legislation to strengthen and modernize Connecticut’s election laws. These reforms take important steps to protect the integrity, security, and transparency of our democratic process by:
- Safeguarding private voter data
- Requiring that ballots cast during early voting be securely stored in a voting tabulator
- Preventing individuals convicted of election-related crimes from serving as election moderators
These updates reflect a balanced approach: expanding access to the ballot while maintaining strong safeguards to protect public trust.
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We also passed education reform legislation responding to rising antisemitism in schools.
The bill establishes a working group that will equip educators with tools and guidance to combat anti-Jewish hate and foster inclusive, respectful learning environments for all students. |
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March 9–13 is Civic Learning Week in Connecticut.
This nationwide initiative highlights the vital role of civic education and engagement in preserving and strengthening our constitutional democracy.
By focusing on deepening public understanding of democratic values, rights, and responsibilities, this effort aims to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to actively participate in democratic processes.
Through diverse educational programs, discussions, and events, Civic Learning Week fosters a collective commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and freedom that are central to a thriving, inclusive society. Ultimately, it seeks to ensure the health and vitality of democracy for generations to come.
Click here for a list of in-person and virtual programs that you can take part in throughout the week. |
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In addition, we approved legislation targeting bottle redemption fraud, an issue that has grown since Connecticut increased its bottle deposit from five cents to ten cents. Some out-of-state actors have exploited the higher refund value by transporting large quantities of containers into Connecticut, leading to reported losses in the millions for beverage distributors.
The new law addresses this abuse by:
- Increasing fines for violations of the state’s bottle bill
- Requiring redemption centers to record identifying information for anyone redeeming more than 1,000 bottles and cans in a single day
- Granting law enforcement clear authority to pursue out-of-state violators
These changes protect legitimate consumers and small businesses while preserving the integrity of Connecticut’s recycling system.
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| The Connecticut Student Loan Reimbursement Program has opened a new grant round and is now accepting applications for student loan payments that were made during the 2025 calendar year. |
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Since launching its first grant round in January 2025, the program has awarded more than $2.2 million in reimbursements to borrowers statewide.
Eligible applicants can apply for reimbursement grants of up to $5,000 per year, with a maximum reimbursement of $20,000 over four years. Under the program, a new grant round launches each year, providing reimbursements for payments made during the preceding calendar year.
Eligible applicants may qualify if they:
- Are Connecticut residents and meet program residency requirements.
- Made qualifying student loan payments during the 2025 calendar year.
- Earned a degree from a Connecticut institution of higher education or completed a state-approved program required for professional licensure or certification.
- Meet income limits of $125,000 for single filers or $175,000 for married filers.
- Completed required community service or qualified for a hardship waiver in certain circumstances.
Applications must be submitted online through the CT Scholars portal, where applicants need to complete an application and upload required documentation. Applications will be reviewed on a first come first serve basis through December 2026 or until funds are exhausted.
Click here for application instructions. Questions regarding the program and the application process can be directed to OHE.SLRP@ct.gov.
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According to the World Health Organization, as of 2025, Endometriosis affects an estimated 10% (190 million) of reproductive age women worldwide.
Below are ways you can get information on this disease and ways to support critical research:
1. CT Endometriosis Working Group, chaired by my colleague, Jillian Gilchrest.
2. EndoRISE (UConn Health) |
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March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to foster understanding, break down barriers, and celebrate the talents and achievements of people with developmental disabilities.
Disabilities are part of the human experience, and we must promote inclusion at every opportunity. You can show your support by wearing orange, the official color of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, symbolizing energy and positivity. |
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March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions women have made to our communities, our state, and our nation. Here in Connecticut, countless women have shaped our history through leadership, innovation, advocacy, and perseverance.
While this month offers a special opportunity to reflect, their stories deserve to be honored all year long. From historic homes and museums to landmarks connected to groundbreaking achievements and social movements, our state is rich with places that preserve and share the legacy of women who helped shape Connecticut’s past and future.
Take some time to explore these meaningful sites and learn more about the women behind them. Click here to view a list of historic landmarks across Connecticut that are deeply connected to women’s history and the stories that continue to inspire generations today. |
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I love to read!
"Biggins Books" will highlight what I'm currently reading, all via audiobooks, and some highlights and thoughts about what I read. |
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Full disclosure? I hope that you're encouraged to pick up a book, any book, and just read. Reading is a wonderful way to relax, relieve stress, enhance brain activity, and more.
In the last few weeks, I've read:
Go as a River: This coming-of-age story is set in 1948 Colorado and follows a young girl named Victoria Nash, whose life is changed after encountering a disheveled stranger who asks her for directions. Filled with loss and hope, this novel promises a journey of survival and mystery and caters tot hose who enjoy witnessing a character's growth.
The Collected Regrets of Clover: After an early introduction to death, Clover Brooks felt more connected to the dead than the living. Dedicating her life’s work to being a Death Doula and helping people comfortably transition during their end-of-life process, Clover encounters a feisty woman who sends her on a journey that reignites a forgotten love story. Give this book a read if you want to explore the sensitive topic of death. |
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| The Town of East Hartford is looking for volunteers interested in giving back to the town. Interested? Click HERE for more details. |
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| Please see a wonderful Manchester-centric guide to leisure services in town for all ages, including the ability to register for many events this winter and spring! Please click on the image below for more details. |
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