Legislative Update March 19

March 19, 2024

*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope this email finds you in good health and spirits. I wanted to take a moment to update you on the current legislative session, which is now in full swing. Our committees are actively engaged in a host of initiatives and are working diligently to address the needs and concerns of our community.

During the committee work, I actively engage with my fellow lawmakers, collectively examining proposed legislation, taking into account public testimonies, and deliberating on the most effective approaches for policy development. This is a critical period as we shape the laws and regulations that will have a direct impact on our district and state.

I want to emphasize that your voice is essential in this process. If there are specific issues or perspectives you would like to share, please don't hesitate to email me directly. Your input helps guide our efforts and ensures that our community's interests are represented.

Legislation for a Permanent Refundable Child Tax Credit

Just before the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee Public Hearing that was held recently, I joined my colleagues, the Child Tax Credit Coalition, and dedicated families at a press conference to emphasize the urgent need to establish a permanent refundable child tax credit in Connecticut.

Our gathering centered around advocating for Senate Bill 36 and House Bill 5113, both of which aim to introduce a child tax credit that will significantly benefit our communities. This initiative is not just about supporting growth and stability for our families; it's also an investment in the future of our state.

Veterans Press Conference

I had the opportunity to participate in a press conference in support of Senate Bill 344. This important piece of legislation aims to exclude certain federal veterans' benefits from being considered as income when determining eligibility for various public assistance programs.

Our veterans have given so much in service to our country, and it's crucial that we support them in every way possible upon their return home. Senate Bill 344 acknowledges their sacrifices by ensuring that the benefits they receive don't hinder their access to the assistance they may need.

Early Voting: What You Need to Know

Early voting options are now available thanks to the work of the Connecticut General Assembly last session, and later this month, voters in the state will take to the polls to vote in the 2024 presidential primary.

This legislation was made possible by a state Constitutional amendment approved by a wide majority of Connecticut voters in 2022. It will provide you - and voters across the state - with more flexibility and access to cast your vote with the confidence that your voice is heard and your civic duty is fulfilled while avoiding large crowds and scheduling conflicts.

Anticipating that you may have questions about this new process, I hope the guide below will be helpful in providing information to answer them.

Here's what you need to know:

When is early voting?

For the April 2 presidential preference primary election, early voting will take place from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM on March 26, 27, 28, and 30. Due to Good Friday and Easter, there will be no early voting Friday, March 29 or Sunday, March 31.

Early voting for the August 13 primary elections will take place between August 5 and August 11.

Early voting for the November 5 general election will take place between October 21 to November 3.

Is my early voting location the same as my regular voting location?

Not necessarily. Each town will have at least one early voting location, and municipalities with a population of 20,000 or more can add more locations if needed. You can find your early voting location on your municipality's website, at MyVote.ct.gov, or by calling (860) 509-6200.

Are there deadlines to be aware of?

Monday, March 25 at noon is the deadline to register with a political party to vote in the early voting period for the presidential preference primary.

Monday, April 1 at noon is the deadline for registering in person with your registrar of voters or town clerk to vote on April 2, and for unaffiliated voters to enroll in a party for in-person voting.

If you are not yet registered to vote, file your registration application with your town's registrar of voters by noon on the business day before the day you want to vote, or click here to register.

Voting is one of our country's most privileged and fundamental rights, and your participation is crucial in shaping the future. Let’s amplify the impact of our collective voice – start voting early!

Please don't hesitate to reach out to my office with any further questions on this new and exciting initiative!

Show Your Support for H.B. 5491

The Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee is scheduled to hear testimony on H.B. 5491, a bill that seeks to establish a property tax exemption specifically for veterans who have a service-connected permanent and total disability rating as determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

This public hearing will take place on Wednesday, March 20th at 10:00 AM. The purpose of this bill is to recognize and support those veterans who have made considerable sacrifices for our country.

You can share your thoughts by submitting testimony online, by phone, or in writing. You can click here to register to testify-- please note that registration will close on Tuesday, March 19th at 3:00 PM. To submit written testimony, please use this link. A full guide to testifying can be found here. Additionally, you can review the CGA Bulletin for more details.

If you have any issues, concerns, or feedback, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to email me directly or contact my office at (860) 240-8585.

Sincerely,