Feb. 19th Newsletter: Access Health CT Enrollment, HB 6121

February 19, 2021

We are constantly working to provide updates and important news as it develops over social media and by email. This is a recap of some of this week’s highlights.

For more information about the state's response efforts visit ct.gov/coronavirus. To receive text message notifications, sign up for CTAlert, the state’s emergency alert system. To subscribe, text "COVIDCT" to 888-777.


Bill on Workforce Development Pipeline for Persons with Disabilities Receives Hearing

One of the bills I have introduced this legislative session (alongside fellow Avon representative Eleni Kavros DeGraw) is HB 6121, AN ACT ESTABLISHING A WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.

Earlier this week, this bill received a hearing in the Commerce Committee, and I was so encouraged by the support it received through public testimony. In 2003, I was a founding and executive board member of the West Hartford Special Education PTO (SEPTO) in West Hartford. Advocacy and education for individuals living with disabilities has always been important to me. Both in and out of the educational setting, it is important for all individuals to be afforded opportunities to live their best and fullest lives. This legislation seeks to support that effort.


Access Health CT Special Enrollment Period open now through March 15
 
Access Health CT Enrollment

Access Health CT's (AHCT) Special Enrollment Period is open now through March 15, 2021 for uninsured residents to obtain quality, affordable health care coverage, particularly those negatively affected by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are several ways to get help with enrollment including:

  • Online: AccessHealthCT.com (Live chat: AccessHealthCT.com click “Live Chat” icon) 
  • Phone: 1-855-805-4325, Mon. – Fri.  8 AM - 4 PM
  • With Enrollment Specialists in the community 
  • In-person help at either of AHCT’s Navigator partner locations: 

Consumers will not be required to verify their eligibility for this Special Enrollment Period. Financial help will still be available for those who qualify.

Please note if you are currently enrolled in coverage through AHCT you will not be eligible to use this Special Enrollment Period to change your existing plans.

If you are in need this is an opportunity to put your mind at ease during these times. Access to good quality, affordable healthcare awaits.


Reopening Connecticut
 
Reopening CT

Governor Lamont announced earlier this week that his administration is considering expanding the capacity of private, social, and recreational events at commercial venues beginning on Friday, March 19, 2021. See the above graphic for details.

The governor noted that the effective date of this expansion is dependent upon the continued stability in the state’s COVID-19 metrics.


Cold Weather Safety
 
Cold Weather

As we face yet another snow storm this month, here are some cold weather safety reminders to keep in mind as the temperature drops.


Reapportionment Committee
 
Connecticut Speaker of the House Matthew Ritter recently appointed me to serve on the Reapportionment Committee, which meets every ten years (in accordance with federal and state law) to redraw legislative districts based on population shifts reflected in the most recent U.S. Census.
 
I wish to thank Speaker Ritter for granting me this opportunity. I will dedicate myself to ensuring every state resident’s vote is treated equally, and I look forward to working towards that goal with my fellow members on the committee.