Legislative Update 5.5

May 5, 2025

Dear Neighbor,

Happy Cinco de Mayo! The celebration each year marks the anniversary of the 1862 victory by Mexican troops over invading French forces at the Battle of Puebla. I want to give my best wishes to all those celebrating this evening.

Meantime, in Hartford, we are busy at work with the end of session rapidly approaching. In this week's update, I'll detail key environmental policies we passed last week, share some of the great opportunities I had to interact with many of you, and highlight events at the capitol including a conversation I had with the Governor about your concerns over the economy, the federal government's Medicare cuts, and more.

As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns about my work in Hartford and the changes you hope to see in the 37th District!

Sincerely,

Nick Menapace
State Representative

Around the 37th

I had a blast working the admissions booth at the Niantic Touch-A-Truck event at McCook’s Park! It was wonderful to see so many families out enjoying the day.

It was my honor to present a citation on behalf of myself, Senator Marx, and the Connecticut General Assembly to Cadet Lt. Col. Aneleise Mazzulli—a standout leader in the Civil Air Patrol, a recipient of the Eaker Award, and an East Lyme star!

Reaching the rank of Lt. Colonel is extraordinary—especially as a junior. This award reflects Aneleise’s dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence.

At the Capitol

It was Rep. Gauthier’s and my pleasure to welcome Montville High School’s ESOL program to the State Capitol on Friday!

Thank you to Suzanne Gulotta and all the Montville educators and students who made the trip. We’re so glad you joined us — and we’re proud to have you here representing the future of our state.

It was an honor to join the celebration of Polish Day at the Capitol on Friday in recognition of Polish Constitution Day. Poland’s historic contributions to democracy—both in Europe and here in the United States—continue to inspire generations.

Proud to stand with the Polish-American community in honoring the world’s second-oldest written constitution and the enduring values of freedom, resilience, and democratic governance.

A little over a year ago, I was at the Capitol with CEA for Lobby Day, advocating as a teacher—for my students, my fellow educators, and public education. Now, I’m a legislator, but with the same mission.

We need our educators more than ever, and I’ll do everything I can to ensure Connecticut schools remain among the best in the nation.

Monday, April 28th, was Penguin Day at the Capitol.

What a delight to meet Blue Green, a 23-year-old penguin and proud grandmother, today at the Capitol. A wonderful reminder of the incredible wildlife right here in Connecticut!

Thank you to Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program for their vital work in conservation, education, and protecting species like Blue Green. Their efforts ensure future generations can enjoy and learn from these amazing animals.

If you love penguins (who doesn’t?), consider supporting Mystic Aquarium’s mission—or visit to meet their penguin colony in person!

I attended an event hosted by the Alliance to End Sexual Violence — a powerful reminder of how much work we still have to do to support survivors and prevent sexual violence in our communities.

These conversations can be difficult, but they’re necessary. I’m grateful to the advocates, survivors, and my fellow legislators who continue to show up and push for change. Your voices matter — and as your representative, I’m listening and committed to doing my part.

We had a productive meeting with Governor Ned Lamont to discuss some of our constituents' real anxieties — especially rising insurance costs and the threat of Medicare cuts from the Trump administration.

It was also great to be joined by former Vermont Governor and DNC Chair Howard Dean. These serious issues impact working families and seniors, and we need bold action to protect them.

On Earth Day (April 22nd), I was proud to stand alongside these passionate young leaders at the Sunrise Coalition’s Youth Advocacy Day — and with some of my fellow legislators.

No one is more important than the next generation in our fight against climate change. Your voices matter, and we’re listening.

A Practical, Affordable Climate Bill

The House voted in favor of HB 5004: An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors.

As our state is increasingly feeling the impacts of climate change, it is the legislature's job to enact meaningful change for the safety of our residents and to emerge as a leader in climate solutions.

This bill takes a comprehensive, practical, and equitable approach to protecting our environment - from homes and schools to jobs and land. It sets clear goals, removes barriers, and puts people and sustainability first, all through the lens of affordability.

Key provisions of the bill include:

Setting new goals for greenhouse gas emissions reductions—including an economy-wide net-zero target by 2050—without imposing costs on ratepayers
Supporting clean energy jobs and businesses through tax incentives, rebates, and a council to guide workforce transitions
Developing strategic plans and expanding access to clean technologies
Expanding loan and grant programs to include more climate-smart projects and ensuring funds benefit low-income residents and renters
Developing plans that address the triple impact of reducing energy costs, lowering emissions, and supporting climate resilience
Encouraging nature-based solutions for reaching our greenhouse gas reduction and other climate goals

The time is now to pass impactful legislation to counter the effects of climate change.

HB 5004 is a wide-ranging measure that focuses on affordability, energy efficiency, and developing a clean economy, and I was proud to cast my vote in favor.

The bill must now pass the Senate and get signed into law by the governor.

Connecticut Hero Act

On Wednesday, the 50^th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, with the fall of Saigon, the Connecticut House of Representatives unanimously passed (146-0-5) what we call the “HERO Act.”

The HERO Act (HB 6442) is the result of a bipartisan effort and is a comprehensive package of legislation that reflects collaboration, listening, and a deep, collective respect for those who wore the uniform and served our country.

Among the bill’s components:

Designate November as Veterans’ Month to reflect on and celebrate their military service
Waive fees for the Purple Heart license plate, ensuring accessibility for those who have earned one of our nation’s highest military honors
Create two new commemorative plates - one honoring women veterans and another recognizing the Borinqueneers - providing long-lasting public recognition of their historic contributions
Free license renewals for veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs will evaluate how to improve and address shortcomings in available dental services for veterans
Accelerate nursing home placement for service-connected veterans
Improve school transitions for military families with children requiring special education services

Our veterans were willing to sacrifice everything – including their lives – for this country. They deserve to be seen, valued, and never forgotten.

Blue Collar Caucus Kicks Off

I was proud to stand with the Blue-Collar Caucus, alongside Chairs Kara Rochelle (D-Ansonia/Derby), Rebecca Martinez (D-Farmington/Plainville/Southington), and over 30 colleagues, as we fight for Connecticut’s working families.

From fair wages to workplace protections, our message was clear: When working people thrive, our entire state thrives.

Firearm Industry Responsibility Act

I am pleased we passed House Bill 7042, a critical firearm industry responsibility measure. This legislation provides a civil remedy for individuals harmed by the irresponsible actions of gun manufacturers, dealers, and sellers. It also closes a significant loophole in our background check laws and clarifies key language in our statutes related to the unlawful discharge of firearms.

This bill extends firearm permit ineligibility in Connecticut to individuals who have committed disqualifying crimes outside of the state. Specifically, individuals who move to Connecticut and have been convicted of offenses that would otherwise preclude them from obtaining a firearm permit—had the offenses occurred within Connecticut—will also be deemed ineligible.

This applies to out-of-state convictions within the past eight years.

Finally, this bill clarifies a section of our unlawful discharge of a firearm statute—a Class C misdemeanor—by explicitly stating that a person cannot be convicted under this law if the firearm was discharged in lawful self-defense or defense of another person.

Connecticut’s strong laws have helped make our state one of the safest in the nation, and this bill represents a meaningful step forward in promoting accountability and enhancing public safety.

Bills Passed

For a look at bills passed during the 2025 session so far, please click on the image below.

Cancer Screenings For Firefighters Now Available

Enhanced free cancer screenings became available on Thursday for firefighters who experience repeated exposure to smoke, toxic chemicals, and carcinogens as they put their lives on the line to save others' lives and property.

The State of Connecticut is expanding the benefits it provides to firefighters to include free, enhanced cancer screenings. That means the more than 900 firefighters enrolled in the state employee health plan or Partnership Plan will now have free access to a comprehensive, full-body scan once every two years.

As a result of their job responsibilities, these first responders have a significantly higher percentage of cancer diagnoses and cancer-related deaths than the general population. Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes, and these regular screenings will help keep them healthy.

These heroes have high-risk jobs and help keep our communities safe - they shouldn't have to worry about navigating their related healthcare.

Any firefighter enrolled on the state employee health plan or Partnership Plan can visit carecompass.ct.gov to connect with a representative, schedule an appointment, and find providers in their area.

Read more about Connecticut's new cancer screening program for firefighters HERE.

e-Apprenticeship System is Here!

Big news for CT's future workforce: The new e-Apprenticeship system is here!

️This is more than just a tech upgrade - it’s a game-changer for equity and access. This new system will make it easier for more people across the state to connect with paid, hands-on training in fields like healthcare, tech, and the trades…no matter their zip code.

Businesses and workers looking to participate in the program can learn more by clicking on the image below.

Need a Real ID?

Starting Wednesday, you will need a REAL ID, U.S. Passport, or U.S. Passport Card to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities (such as military bases and other federal buildings).

What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a state-issued ID that meets minimum security standards to access federal facilities and board domestic flights. The program was implemented following a 9/11 commission recommendation on making air travel and federal facilities more secure.

How do I know if I already have a REAL ID?

Many people already have their REAL ID. Check your driver's license or ID to see if it has a gold star in the upper right corner, like the above graphic. If you do, then you have a verified REAL ID.

How do I get a REAL ID?

You must visit a DMV office in person to get a REAL ID. Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for a verified license or REAL ID card. People with a drive-only license aren’t eligible for a REAL ID license. Check this CT information portal for more information.
In Connecticut, you'll need to show:

a U.S. passport or U.S. birth certificate
a Social Security card; and two pieces of mail from two different sources dated within 90 days to prove that you live in Connecticut
For all new applications for a driver's license, as well as out-of-state transfers to Connecticut licenses, you will automatically be issued a REAL ID

For more information, visit the following:
Department of Homeland Security
CT Department of Motor Vehicles

May is AANHPI Month!

May is AANHPI Heritage Month (short for Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month). A time to learn the real history and spotlight the cultures, stories & legacies of millions across the U.S. and right here in Connecticut.

From historic resilience to modern impact, let’s celebrate what’s often overlooked.

Thursday is Senior Day @ The Capitol

Hosted by State Representative Jane Garibay and the Aging Committee on Thursday at 10 a.m., Senior Day At The State Capitol is a chance to meet with legislators and learn about important programs and resources available for older adults in Connecticut. Enjoy refreshments, conversations, and community. Food and ice cream will be served.

CGA Kickball Classic: Democrats vs. Republicans is Monday

The Connecticut General Assembly is coming together to support Connecticut Foodshare!

Don’t miss the 2025 CGA Kickball Classic.
📅 Monday
⏰ 4:30 PM
📍 Dunkin’ Park in Hartford
🎟️ $10

Click Here to Buy Tickets