Updates for State Rep. Larry Butler for March 7, 2025

March 7, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

Affordable and accessible childcare is essential for Connecticut families and businesses to thrive. H.B. 5003, a top legislative priority for House Democrats this session, will expedite funding for families, attract and retain childcare educators, and enhance both new and existing childcare facilities.

This proposal builds upon Public Act 24-91, passed unanimously last year, and signed by the Governor, which established the Early Childhood Care and Education Fund. Investing in early childhood care and education produces better educational, health, social, and economic outcomes, driving increased revenue while reducing costs.

Nearly 75% of Connecticut's 181,000 children under the age of five receive care outside the home while their parents work. By providing targeted funding and expanding access to childcare, H.B. 5003 will put more money back into our economy by opening new opportunities for stay-at-home parents to re-enter the workforce. This is not just an investment in childcare — it is an investment in the children of Connecticut and the prosperity of our state.
 

Wrong-Way Driving Technology

The state is delivering on its promise to make our roads safer by installing wrong way driving technology on Route 8 north and south at Exit 27 located in the south end of Waterbury. The Connecticut Department of Transportation will begin that vital work on Tuesday, March 11. The state has determined these off-ramps are at a higher risk for wrong way drivers.

The the north and southbound ramps to Route 8 south at Exit 27 will be closed from Tuesday at 7 p.m. through 5 a.m. the following morning. The timeline could change due to the weather or other unforeseen conditions. Drivers should maintain a safe speed when driving in the area.
 

Special Education Funding

I was proud to vote for a bill allocating $40 million in immediate relief to cover special education costs for school districts across the state. Waterbury Public Schools will receive about $981,000 as part of this funding, which will help students receive the specialized support they need. 

I am pleased the Governor's office and Democratic leaders in the General Assembly came to an agreement that delivers critical municipal funding to our schools to support our children and their futures.

My colleagues and I have heard loud and clear from communities across Connecticut -- the rising cost of special education is placing an enormous strain on local budgets, and school districts need relief now.

We remain steadfast in looking for long-term solutions to lower costs, strengthen services, and provide more financial support for our education system to make sure every child has access to the education they deserve.
 

Congratulations, Sam D'Ambrosi

After 29 years of service on the Waterbury Board of Public Health — 26 of those as president — Sam D’Ambrosi officially stepped down. To celebrate his contributions, the city of Waterbury organized a special event in his honor.

Surrounded by colleagues, friends, and city officials, Sam was recognized for his leadership and unwavering commitment to public health. Thank you, Sam, for your service.
 

Women's History Month

March is Women's History Month, a time to honor the extraordinary contributions women have made to our society. Throughout our history, women have shaped our nation through their leadership, innovation, and resilience -- often overcoming immense barriers to create a more just and equitable world. This month, we recognize trailblazers in every field, from science and politics to education and the arts, while also uplifting the countless women in our communities who work tirelessly to make a difference every day.

As we celebrate, it is also a time to reflect on the ongoing fight for gender quality. Women continue to face disparities in wages, healthcare access, and representation in leadership. It is our responsibility to not only acknowledge these challenges but to actively work toward solutions that empower and support women in all aspects of life. By advocating for policies that promote economic opportunity, reproductive freedom, and workplace equity, we ensure that future generations of women can thrive.
 

Help for Recently Fired Federal Employees

If you are a Connecticut resident who have been fired or put on unpaid administrative leave from your job with the federal government, please know this … CONNECTICUT HAS YOUR BACK.

The federal government may have turned its back on you, but Connecticut appreciates your contributions and employers here are eager to benefit from your expertise.

The Connecticut Department of Labor has brought together several programs and services designed to assist you during this time.

Displaced federal workers and contractors can find more information on the CTDOL homepage at portal.ct.gov/dol.
 

Get Your Immunization Record Online

Need your immunization record? Get it online from the CT WiZ Public Portal! CT WiZ is Connecticut's secure Immunization Information System, making it easy to access and manage your vaccination record anytime, anywhere by visiting ct.gov/vaccinerecord.
 

Calling Young Writers!

ASAP! is hosting its 20th annual Celebration of Young Writers, which empowers students to share their love of writing.

Public, private and homeschooled students from across Connecticut are invited to submit their pieces for a chance to be recognized for their outstanding work.

Top selected works will be presented at ASAP!’s Annual Fundraiser in May and shared through ASAP!’s website.

Submissions to the Celebration of Young Writers are free.

To learn more, visit the website here.
 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office.
Sincerely,

Larry B. Butler

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