Rachel Khanna

Throughout the summer, I had the opportunity to meet and talk to residents in the 149th district. One of the many issues that came up was the Glenville Corridor. In particular, addressing traffic congestion and making it easier for pedestrians to safely enjoy the neighborhood.

The Greenwich Department of Public Works (DPW’s) plans to begin the Glenville Corridor Improvement project this spring were put on hold after bids came in at a higher amount than was approved by the Greenwich Board of Estimate and Taxation.

I am pleased to announce, that with the help of our House delegation, I was able to organize a meeting this week with the CT Department of Transportation, our First Selectman and the Deputy Commissioner of Greenwich DPW. We are coming much closer to getting this vital project fully funded. I am continuing to advocate for additional sources of funding so that we can ensure that the residents of Glenville have streets that are safe for pedestrians and drivers alike. With the help of my colleagues, Representatives Arzeno and Meskers, and your advocacy, I think we can get this done.

I will keep you updated about developments on this key infrastructure project.

In my conversations with constituents, the rising cost of electricity is always on their minds. While Connecticut does not have the highest electricity rates in the country, our residents still pay far too much.

Last week, Eversource and United Illuminating issued filings to increase their rates by 19% and 12%, respectively, that would take effect May 1, 2024. Eversource’s request would mean a $38 monthly increase. Also last week, the Connecticut Supreme Court upheld a decision by the Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA) to limit what costs electricity company GenConn could pass on to customers.  This decision highlights the important role played by PURA and our courts to protect ratepayers.

I encourage you to provide feedback on the proposed rate hikes by submitting comments to PURA by email at PURA.ExecutiveSecretary@ct.gov and referencing the corresponding docket number (24-01-03). You can also find information on energy efficiency programs at www.EnergizeCT.com.

A look at the schedule of public hearings being held next week. Please remember that you only need to register if you wish to provide testimony. If you want to observe the hearings, you can tune in to watch the proceedings live on the committee’s YouTube channel.

You can register to testify and find more detail on this week's public hearings, including the bills that will be heard, in this week's CGA Bulletin. Access the Bulletin HERE.

It was an honor to stand with fellow representatives of the Reproductive Rights Caucus to announce how we plan to protect this fundamental right. Reproductive healthcare is not just about choice but also about livelihoods. 

Some of our priorities include:

• Expanding student access to reproductive healthcare on public university campuses in Connecticut;
• Ensuring fertility healthcare insurance coverage remains consistent with the medical standard of care, which clearly includes LGBTQ+ and single people, among others;
• Providing assurance that patients experiencing pregnancy-related complications have access to timely, evidence-based, compassionate care;
• Protecting and shielding providers from legal repercussions as they provide telehealth care that is legal in Connecticut.

I enjoyed participating in a discussion with Dr. Dana Suskind and Dr. Pamela Truelove-Walker on the important role that parents and caregivers play in optimizing brain development during the first five years of life and the policies that can support them.

Investing in early childhood education and care programs yields returns far beyond the initial investment dollars. I am excited to be part of the Early Childhood Caucus so we can find ways to address the issue of early childhood education and care.

There will be a one-hour information session to learn about the Women's Business Development Council (WBDC) Ignite Grant on Wednesday, March 6, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am via Zoom, which is free.

This program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut that have been in business for 2 or more years.

To register for the March 6 session, click HERE.

The grant application period will be open between February 1, and March 14.

The information sessions will cover eligibility requirements, what the grant can be used for, the application process, and the timeline.

WBDC will share the application questions and the required supporting documentation.

There will also be time for questions at the end of the sessions.