Affordable Childcare, Women's History Month and Read Across America

March 7, 2025
 
 
The legislative session is ramping up!  We are actively holding public hearings and voting to advance key priorities. Stay informed on what each committee is discussing by visiting the calendar of events on the General Assembly website.
 
I had the pleasure of returning to the classroom for Read Across America Week! It was such a joy to read to our amazing kids. Below, you'll find pictures from the event, as well as a glimpse into all the exciting things we've been working on so far this session.

 
 
Affordable Childcare

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 the need for costly spending.

Connecticut is home to approximately 181,000 children under the age of five, with 73% of these young children receiving 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.
 
Session Update
We were back in session on Wednesday and it was a packed agenda.  We passed 3 emergency bills, including $40M for Special Education, funds for nonprofits, and the 2025-2030 Conservation & Development Plan. Plus, we confirmed key judicial and executive nominations.
  • HJ-67: Resolution Adopting the State Plan of Conservation and Development, "Connecticut Conservation & Development Policies Plan 2025-2039" (LCO#5215)
  • HB-7163: An Act Concerning Emergency Grants to Municipalities for Special Education (LCO#5916)
  • HB-7164: An Act Concerning Emergency Nonprofit Assistance (LCO#5918)

HJ-67 relates to the adoption of the State Plan of Conservation and Development, which is revised every five years by the Office of Policy and Management and it is vetted through committees and public hearings.

House Bills 7163 and 7164 address allocations that were vetoed by the Governor last week. The funding for these allocations has been shifted from the operating budget to ARPA interest, ensuring the Governor’s support.
 
 
International Women's Day

International Women’s Day is Saturday March 8th.  I am honored to serve alongside such an incredible group of talented and inspiring female colleagues.

This day brings attention to gender disparities, champions women’s rights in political, social, and economic spheres. It encourages important discussions on issues such as workplace equality, reproductive rights, and increasing representation in leadership roles.

We are working together to advance women’s rights and ensure a more equitable and empowering future for all.
Wednesday's Bi-Partisan Women's Caucus Breakfast
 
Read Across America
Rogers International School
It is Read Across America week and to honor Women’s History Month I read Grace for President  to kindergarten, first and fourth graders at Rogers International School and to second graders at Stillmeadow Elementary School in Stamford.  

Thank you to Ms. Jennifer Grant and all the 2nd grade teachers at Stillmeadow Elementary School for inviting me in to read to Read Across America week as well as teachers Ms. Kate Fox, Ms. Kelly O’Meara, and Ms. Rosemary Bevill for inviting me into their wonderful classrooms to celebrate at Rogers International School.


 
Stillmeadow Elementary School
 
Legislative Session Preview
Thank you to all that came out on Thursday night and joined the me and the Stamford delegation for our Legislative Session Preview. It was a packed house, we had great a conversation and your input was very valuable.
 
 
Stamford St. Patrick's Day Parade
Last Saturday we celebrated St. Patrick's Day early at the 30th annual Stamford St. Patrick's Day Parade.  It was a great turnout as always, congratulations to Grand Marshall Birdie Barron!