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The legislative session has shifted from our various committee rooms to the House floor. My colleagues and I spent three days in the chamber this week voting on a series of bills. I'll break down how we're holding gun manufacturers responsible, protecting our environment, and supporting our veterans and their families.
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Spring weather means construction season, so there will be a few road detours in New Canaan in the coming weeks. See below to know when and where crews will be conducting road work and when you need to build in some extra driving time to get to work, sports games, restaurants, and more! As always, I look forward to hearing from you. For more information, please make sure to follow my Facebook page HERE and get updates on Instagram @StateRepSavet Constantine. If I can assist you and your family, please don't hesitate to reach out at Savet.Constantine.@cga.ct.gov or via phone at the Capitol at 860-240-8585.
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| House Passes Bill Supporting Veterans |
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On Wednesday, the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, the House of Representatives unanimously approved the Connecticut Hero Act, which makes important changes to better serve our veterans and their families. Each section addresses different challenges to ensure that our heroes are recognized and supported.The Hero Act 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. The Senate still needs to pass the measure before it can become law.Our veterans were willing to sacrifice everything, including their lives for this country. They deserve to be seen, valued, and never forgotten. Let's explore how this legislation makes a difference:
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| Strengthening Gun Safety & Accountability |
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| I am pleased we passed House Bill 7042, a critical firearm industry responsibility measure. Connecticut’s strong gun control laws have helped make our state one of the safest in the nation, and this bill represents a meaningful step forward in promoting accountability and enhancing public safety. |
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This legislation encourages responsible practices for gun manufacturers, dealers, and sellers, opening avenues for and empowering victims to pursue justice. We also closed a significant loophole in our background check laws and clarified key language in our statutes related to the unlawful discharge of firearms.
This bill extends firearm permit ineligibility in Connecticut to individuals who have committed disqualifying crimes outside of the state. Specifically, individuals who move to Connecticut and have been convicted of offenses that would otherwise preclude them from obtaining a firearm permit—had the offenses occurred within Connecticut—will also be deemed ineligible. This applies to out-of-state convictions within the past eight years.
Finally, this bill clarifies a section of our unlawful discharge of a firearm statute—a Class C misdemeanor—by explicitly clarifying that a person cannot be convicted under this law if the firearm was discharged in lawful self-defense or in defense of another person. |
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| A Practical, Affordable Climate Bill |
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Many of my House colleagues and I voted in favor of HB 5004, to take a comprehensive, practical, and equitable approach to protecting our environment. The legislation sets clear energy efficiency goals, removes barriers, and puts people and sustainability first, all through the lens of affordability.
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Key provisions of the bill include:
- Setting new goals for greenhouse gas emissions reductions—including an economy-wide net-zero target by 2050—without imposing costs on ratepayers
- Supporting clean energy jobs and businesses through tax incentives, rebates, and a council to guide workforce transitions
- Developing strategic plans and expanding access to clean technologies
- Expanding loan and grant programs to include more climate-smart projects and ensuring funds benefit low-income residents and renters
- Developing plans that address the triple impact of reducing energy costs, lowering emissions, and supporting climate resilience
- Encouraging nature based solutions for reaching our greenhouse gas reduction and other climate goals
The bill must now pass the Senate before Governor Lamont can sign it into law.
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| Expect Delays on Route 123 |
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Drivers can expect delays due to road work on Route 123 (Smith Ridge Road) from Michigan Road to the New York state line in New Canaan. Crews will mill the road from Sunday, May 11 to Wednesday, March 14. The resurfacing portion of the project will take place from Sunday, May 18 to Thursday, May 22.The Connecticut Department of Transportation says there will be night-time lane closures from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. CLICK HERE for more information.
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