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Happy Friday!
This week, we held a public hearing in the Public Health Committee, and this one held a special place in my heart.
We heard testimony on SB 1451 - An Act Concerning the Recommendations of the Working Group to Study Staff Safety Issues Affecting Home Health Care and Home Health Aide Agencies.This working group was formed after the heartbreaking loss of my coworker, Joyce Grayson, who was tragically murdered at work last year.
Although I wasn’t here when SB 1 was passed last year, I want to express my deep gratitude to the legislators who acted swiftly to lay the groundwork for improving safety in our healthcare system. I am honored to join the effort now and help build upon that vital progress.
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Nurses and healthcare workers dedicate their lives to caring for others—they should never have to fear for their own safety while doing so.
I remain committed to strengthening safety measures and providing the resources they deserve.
Thank you to everyone who came out and shared their voices today. Let’s continue this important work.
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In the rest of this week's eblast, you can read about more of the legislation we're voting on at the Capitol, visits to the Capitol from students and other residents, and more. You can click on the links below to navigate between sections.
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It was a productive week at our state Capitol:
- Public Health Committee - We voted to advance critical bills focusing on food safety, oral health, staff safety in home healthcare, and innovative treatments for veterans—paving the way for a healthier and safer Connecticut.
- General Law Committee - We voted on several important bills to move forward, addressing key areas such as ethical pet procurement practices, restrictions on gaming advertisements in higher education, and enhanced transparency for restocking fees to safeguard consumers.
- Public Hearing - The day continued with a productive public hearing in the General Law Committee. We listened to testimony on a variety of significant proposals, including subscription service protections, accurate product labeling, and a no knock home solicitation bill aimed to modernized regulations to enhance community safety.
The days are long, but the work I do for you is incredibly rewarding.
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On Wednesday, March 19 at noon, the General Law Committee will hold a public hearing on HB 5428, An Act Concerning Mobile Manufactured Home Parks. This bill, which I sponsored, would provide protections for residents living in manufactured home parks.
This bill comes as a direct result from conversations I've had with constituents in our district. If you're interested in testifying via written testimony, phone, or in person, you can click here for more information.
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This week, PHS students had the chance to visit the Capitol in Hartford for Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Day! It was so inspiring to see our future leaders taking part in the legislative process and learning about the power of advocacy in education.
Joining the students for this special day were Superintendent Reas and Board of Education members Crystal St. Lawrence and Foster White. Their presence highlighted the importance of community support and leadership in shaping the future of education.
The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education works tirelessly to champion high-quality education for every child. Their efforts include legislative advocacy, professional development, and fost ering collaboration among education leaders.
I’m so proud of our PHS students for showing such enthusiasm and curiosity while representing our community.
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It was such a pleasure to welcome Plainville residents Linda and Sebby to the Capitol on Wednesday! Their dedication as advocates for Desmond’s Army is truly remarkable.
Desmond’s Army is a passionate group of volunteers committed to being a voice for the voiceless. They work tirelessly to improve animal welfare legislation and raise awareness about the critical connection between animal abuse and domestic violence. Their efforts remind us all of the importance of compassion and justice for every living being.
Thank you, Linda and Sebby, for your unwavering commitment to this cause and for representing Desmond’s Army so beautifully!
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There are eight public hearings scheduled next week. Visit this website for information on how to testify on a bill at a public hearing.If you're interested in testifying or watching a public hearing you can see the schedule for next week below:
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Below, you can find information on the Plainville Family Resource Network's Family Fest, a great community event that is fun for everyone!
The event will take place Saturday, May 17 from 10:30am-3:30pm at 69 Linden Street, Plainville.
For questions, please email LindenStreetPTO@gmail.com. |
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Tax season is upon us. There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.
You can use the IRS Direct File Tool, which is a new option for anyone who lived and earned all their income in Connecticut last year.
Click here for more information on IRS Direct File Tool.
The federal government is also offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. Here is some of the eligibility date for VITA:
- Household income less than $68,000
- If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
- No income from a rental property
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Sincerely,
Rebecca Martinez
State Representative |
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