Kate Farrar

Once again, President Trump and Congressional Republicans have chosen to prioritize tax cuts for billionaires over lowering health care costs for working families. This has now triggered a nationwide shutdown, threatening essential services and support for millions of Americans.

Beyond our Connecticut residents who are federal workers, one critical program at risk during the shutdown is Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), a grant program that provides free healthy foods, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and referrals to vital services for families. WIC supports thousands of moms and children in our state.

That’s why the State of Connecticut is stepping up to backstop WIC funding, so that moms and families know they will continue to get the help they need, regardless of what’s happening in Washington.

This is what leadership looks like: standing up for working families, protecting the most vulnerable, and making sure no one is left behind. 

With more federal cuts looming—especially to food assistance and health insurance—Connecticut must act. 
 
Right now, without action by December 31st, more than 150,000 people who purchase insurance through Access Health CT, will be affected with higher costs due to the federal reconciliation bill passed in July. For example, a family of five earning $150,600 would see their monthly health insurance premium rise from $991 to $4,140 — a 317% increase for the same plan. This is even before any additional premium increases requested by carriers and also when 40% of working families across our state are already unable to make ends meet month to month. 
 
We have both the ability and the responsibility to use $2 billion in excess state revenue to shield our communities from the worst impacts of the federal cuts.

I joined colleagues and community leaders this week to call for a special legislative session by November 1st to responsibly invest these funds and ensure that families don’t go hungry, that people don’t lose health coverage, and that rising health care costs don’t fall even harder on the backs of everyday workers, families and seniors.

Now is the time to stand strong in our values and protect the people of Connecticut.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. On Wednesday I joined legislative colleagues and community members to raise awareness and to stand in solidarity with survivors.

We recognize the strength of those impacted and work together to break the cycle of abuse, help is always available.

• Interval House: Providing emergency shelter, counseling, and advocacy. 24/7 hotline: (888) 774-2900
• CT Safe Connect: Statewide support and resources for anyone affected by domestic violence. Call or chat 24/7 at www.CTSafeConnect.org

A big thank you to everyone who joined us at Beachland Park and along the Trout Brook Trail for Walk with Purpose with the Sierra Club of Connecticut!

Together, we picked up litter, shared a meaningful discussion on climate change, and reaffirmed our commitment to protecting our air, water, and planet.

As a bonus, we were treated to the sight of a beautiful hawk during our walk, a great reminder of the wildlife we’re working to protect.

Your presence and passion made the evening a success.

Join us at the State Capitol on Thursday, October 9 from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. as we celebrate International Day of the Girl. At a time when the rights and opportunities of women and girls are at risk, we’re coming together to call for urgent action and champion girls’ empowerment.

Impersonation and wrong number text scams are also on the rise. Read below for what to look out for. If you are ever in doubt, click here to report any incidents that you find suspicious.