Nick Menapace

My colleagues and I have submitted a letter to PURA opposing Eversource’s proposed rate increase, which could raise customer electric bills by approximately 11%, or as much as 17% if deferred storm restoration costs are included.

Let's be clear. Connecticut residents and businesses already face some of the highest electricity costs in the nation and cannot absorb additional increases. How is it that Eversource needs higher rates given the company reported $1.69 billion profit in 2025 and increased shareholder returns.

We are also questioning the company’s request to recover approximately $1.4 billion in storm-related costs from 2018–2023, including costs associated with storms where regulators previously identified deficiencies in Eversource's response.

We are urging PURA to conduct a thorough review of the proposal, including public hearings, independent audits of storm-related expenses, and a detailed affordability analysis. We are also calling for strong consumer protections and greater accountability before any rate increase is approved.

We all deserve better.

Food pantries serving residents in the 37th House District may be eligible for a new grant program launched by United Way of Connecticut in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Social Services.

This funding is available to food pantries that:

• Are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in good standing or a municipality that operates a food pantry
• Have provided free food to the public for at least 12 months before applying
• Are not members of the Connecticut Foodshare Agency Network

Eligible food pantries may receive funding equal to up to 25% of their annual food purchase costs, with awards of up to $50,000.

Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis through Nov. 30.

For program details and to apply, visit ctunitedway.org/foodpantry.

Questions can be directed to FoodPantry@ctunitedway.org.

If you know of a local food pantry that may qualify, please help spread the word about this opportunity to strengthen food security resources in our community.

June is Immigrant Heritage Month.

Every one of us is descended from someone who came from somewhere else. Whether it was generations ago or just last year, that journey is part of who we are as Americans.

Immigrant heritage isn't a side story — it's the story.