Good news! Two measures clear committee

Capitol
March 30, 2021
Good news! Two measures I authored and cosponsored have passed committee and have a chance to become law.
 
One AN ACT CONCERNING THE COUNTING OF INCARCERATED PERSONS FOR PURPOSES OF DETERMINING LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS would count inmates of correctional facilities as residents of their town of origin. This legislation, which several of us have fought for for years, could give New Haven fairer representation.
 
The second, AN ACT CONCERNING HEALTH EQUITY, THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC AND PULSE OXIMETERS would prohibit insurers from denying coverage based on a ‘pulse ox’ reading alone. The device gives important information, especially if your baseline level drops. But if an absolute level is used to determine eligibility, people of color may be denied needed care. Since I filed the bill, the FDA changed guidance saying the reading is a ‘range,’ but Medicare and insurers have not changed. Until then, this measure, the first in the country, would be a modest step in reducing health disparities. Below is a recent article about the committee action:
New Haven Independent Article