Hubert Delany

I recently participated in a press conference alongside advocates and fellow lawmakers to urge the state to increase funding for nonprofits across Connecticut.



These organizations play a crucial role in providing affordable and efficient resources that serve as a safety net for individuals in need. These vital programs cannot continue to operate effectively with limited resources and low wages. By advocating for fair and adequate funding, we can ensure that nonprofits receive the support they need. 

Our call for increased funding is not merely a financial plea; it is a call to action to recognize and value the impact these nonprofits have on the health and prosperity of our communities. Adequate funding would not only stabilize these organizations but also allow them to attract and retain the talented staff necessary to expand and enhance their services. Investing in our nonprofits is an investment in our state's future—a future where every individual has the opportunity to lead a safe, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Last week, I joined Governor Ned Lamont, Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto, and other lawmakers to celebrate the debut of a state-of-the-art parking garage at the Stamford Transportation Center. 



This modern facility is designed to make your daily commute smoother and more convenient, with features that include:

• A total of 914 parking spaces
• 92 electric vehicle charging stations to support green transportation
• Ample bicycle parking with 120 spaces
• 50 charging stations for electric bikes
• A new 320-foot pedestrian bridge providing direct access to the platform for trains heading to Grand Central

The addition of this garage, along with its comfort and safety enhancements, opens up a world of possibilities for our community. I am incredibly grateful for the dedication and effort that went into completing this project. 



Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing my partnership with the CTDOT to ensure that travel from Stamford is not only efficient but also reliable.

When my colleague, Representative Khan, bravely shared her experience of surviving an attempted sexual assault and enduring a violent physical attack in June, it brought to the forefront the urgent need for policy reform to improve how we handle sexual assault cases.



I stand in firm support of two transformative bills that confront this critical issue: House Bill 5399 and Senate Bill 222.

House Bill 5399 is a piece of legislation aimed at formulating a comprehensive policy designed to reform how the criminal justice system addresses sexual assault cases. It seeks to not only streamline collaboration among law enforcement agencies but also to establish consistent investigative protocols and significantly elevate the level of education and training provided to police officers throughout Connecticut, ensuring a more informed and sensitive approach to these serious crimes.

 

In tandem, Senate Bill 222 offers a compassionate legislative solution, acknowledging the profound trauma and health repercussions faced by survivors of sexual assault. This bill introduces "Safe Leave," which grants survivors up to 12 days of paid leave under the Connecticut Paid Family Medical Leave program. It is a measure that compassionately ensures no survivor has to make the harrowing choice between their economic security and their personal well-being and recovery.

Our state's librarians are reaching out for much-needed support. Two critical pieces of legislation are on the table: House Bill 5312 and Senate Bill 148, both designed to offer our libraries the assistance they urgently require. These bills prohibit publicly funded libraries from being constrained by unfair contractual terms, empowering them to unite in opposition, exchange effective strategies, and secure the most favorable terms possible from publishers.

It's essential that we stand with our libraries. Should any library be compelled to enter into such contracts, the proposed bills will render the oppressive terms null and void, thereby protecting our valued institutions.

Expect delays in your commute due to a pavement rehabilitation project on both sides of I-95. The work will begin on Monday, March 11th between exits 2 and 6 in Stamford and Greenwich. 

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has deemed this work necessary to enhance driver safety by installing new and more durable pavement. The crews will be replacing traffic and signal loops, so please be prepared for occasional lane closures. The entire project is anticipated to be completed by November 2025.

Operation Fuel, an organization that offers emergency energy and water assistance, has extended its winter program season for 2024. Thanks to additional funding provided by Special Act No. 24-1, Operation Fuel will now accept applications until Friday, March 15th. 

To apply for delivered fuel assistance, such as oil, propane, and pellets, you must provide:

• Proof of income for the past four weeks and for every adult in the household
• Clients with a current Connecticut Energy Assistance Program award letter may submit this as proof of income for their household
• Forms to verify zero income, self-employment, and friends and family support are available here
• The name of your preferred delivered fuel vendor (Operation Fuel has a list of in-network vendors)

To apply for utility assistance, such as gas and electric, you must provide:

• Proof of income for the past four weeks and for every adult in the household.
• Clients with a current Connecticut Energy Assistance Program award letter may submit this as proof of income for their household 
• Your utility account information and most recent, past-due bill  

In addition, clients who received an award last year are eligible to apply again before Friday, March 15th. Please note that Operation Fuel does not take applications in person or over the phone. 

I just wanted to give you a friendly reminder that Daylight Saving Time is upon us! Remember to set your clocks forward by one hour this weekend. This small change means we'll enjoy longer evenings with more daylight to savor. 

Make sure to adjust your clocks before you go to bed on Saturday night to ensure a smooth start to your Sunday! 

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,



Hubert Delany