New Law Protects Children on School Buses

June 11, 2026

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Protecting Children
    on School Buses
  • CT Open House Day on June 13
  • A Waterbury Success Story Expands
  • Sweet Reward for Math Success
 

Protecting Children on School Buses

I was proud to vote for a bill that will soon be a new law that strengthens protections for children going to and from school by holding drivers accountable when they fail to stop for school buses.

Beginning October 1, 2026, drivers who violate the state’s school bus stopping law for a third time will face a six-month suspension of their driver’s license. Drivers must stop at least 10 feet from the front or back of a school bus displaying its flashing red lights and remain there until the lights are off.

Violations include a $450 fine for the first offense and a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both for a subsequent offense. This new law adds another important layer of accountability.
 

CT Open House Day on June 13

Mark your calendar for Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 13! More than 200 attractions across the state, including museums, arts and cultural venues, historic sites, farms, and restaurants, will offer free or discounted admission and special promotions including in Waterbury.
Mattatuck Museum invites visitors to stop by for free and ask questions to a guest curator about the exhibition “Ascendancy: The Self in Contemporary Art."

Additionally, there will also be exhibits exploring 250 years of identity, citizenship, and belonging and another showcasing contemporary gig poster design.
Fascia’s Chocolates invites the public to stop by on Connecticut Open House Day for Make Your Own Chocolate Bar for a reduced price of $7. Then, enjoy a free version of the rest of the Experience and learn all about chocolate. CLICK HERE to register.

This is a wonderful opportunity to discover new destinations and celebrate the rich experiences that make Connecticut such a great and fun place to explore.
Click here for more CT Open House Day events
 

A Waterbury Success Story Expands
Congratulations to local entrepreneur Patricia Li on opening her newest restaurant, La BoriChina, at 500 Franklin Avenue in Hartford. Patricia, who is Puerto Rican and Chinese, has built a unique brand blending the rich flavors and traditions of both cultures in delicious ways. I recently visited the new location with my colleague Rep. James Sánchez and can tell you firsthand: the food is incredible food and the atmosphere is welcoming.

Patricia’s success is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and small business entrepreneurship. She got her start at the original La BoriChina restaurant at 105 Meriden Road in Waterbury, which has earned a loyal following.

It is exciting to see a Waterbury business owner continue to grow in Connecticut. I wish Patricia and her team continued success!
 

Sweet Reward for Math Success

A local school rewarded its students for their mathematics achievement in a sweet way! Washington Elementary School celebrated their outstanding performance with a special ice cream social, where they enjoyed their favorite flavors alongside their classmates.

Congratulations to all the students who earned this well-deserved recognition through their hard work, dedication, and commitment to learning.