Capitol Update March 6, 2025

March 6, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

As the legislative session ramps up, we're actively holding public hearings and voting to advance key priorities. If there's an issue you're passionate about, now is the perfect time to make your voice heard.

You can testify via Zoom, attend in person, or submit written comments to share your thoughts with the legislature.

Stay informed on what each committee is discussing by visiting the calendar of events on the General Assembly website. Don’t miss your chance to get involved!
 

Reading to Students at
Morley Elementary School

It was a true pleasure to have the opportunity to read to the wonderful students at Morley Elementary School in West Hartford in honor of Women’s History Month! I had the privilege of reading Grace for President during Read Across America Week, which took place from March 2 to 6, beginning with the birthday of the beloved Dr. Seuss.

March is a month dedicated to celebrating reading, with the National Education Association (N.E.A.) working to promote the importance of reading and its benefits, particularly for children and young adults. Across the nation, schools and organizations host events to encourage reading and inspire a love for learning.
 

Capitol Update
 
 
 
 

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.
 

Make Sure to get your REAL ID!

Make sure to get your REAL ID! The TSA just set a deadline for federal enforcement of REAL ID requirements.

Starting on May 7, only state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that meet the security requirements established by the REAL ID Act will be allowed for official purposes, including boarding commercial aircraft. 

If your driver’s license has the gold star in the top right corner, like the ID pictured above, then you already have a REAL ID. 

All states are issuing REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards. Make sure you get a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver’s license, state-issued identification card or another form of acceptable ID before the deadline to avoid delays at airport security checkpoints.
Click here for more information on getting a REAL ID
 

If you are a Connecticut resident who has been fired or put on unpaid administrative leave from your job with the federal government, please know we are here for you. Connecticut appreciates your contributions and employers in the state are eager to benefit from your expertise.

The Connecticut Department of Labor has brought together several programs and services specifically designed to assist you during this time. Displaced federal workers and contractors can find more information on the CTDOL homepage at portal.ct.gov/dol.