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In this email you'll find updates on district resources and news. Please click the links below to read the section that corresponds with the highlighted headline.
A NOTE: If you're having trouble clicking through the following links, open this email in a browser, use a computer or scroll through this email to the relevant section.
The topics covered are as follows:
On Legislative Business
On Community Resources
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July 1 Marks the Start of More Than 100 New Laws in CT
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More than 100 new laws in Connecticut went into effect on July 1. These laws mark the tireless work put in by my colleagues and I over the past few months. This year, our efforts focused heavily on responding to COVID-19 and measures centered upon equity. Many of the bills passed during the 2021 Legislative Session work to address the disparate impacts COVID-19 has had on our communities while also addressing numerous archaic laws and practices in an equitable way to better Connecticut.
Here are just a few of the laws and provisions that took effect July 1:
- Inclusion of Black and Latino Studies in Public School Curriculum: Passed in 2019, it will require public school curriculum to include Black and Latino studies to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of history. Under the act, boards must offer the course in the 2022-23 school year, but they may do so in the upcoming 2021-22 school year. The State Board of Education (SDE) will conduct an annual audit to ensure that the required courses are being offered and report their findings to the Education Committee.
- Access to Birth Certificates: Takes steps to allow adoptees 18 and older to understand the history of their biological families by allowing them access to their birth certificates.
- Ice Cream Truck Safety: Protects children who are buying ice cream from an ice cream truck by requiring these trucks increase their visibility to other drivers, including flashing red lights and a stop signal arm. Additionally, ice cream trucks will be prohibited from dispensing ice cream to a child coming from the opposite side of the road unless they have an adult present to assist them in crossing the road.
- Legalizing Sports Betting: Allows for the Governor to amend agreements with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the Mohegan Tribe in order to modernize and expand gaming in Connecticut. The agreement between the State and the tribes still needs to be approved by the U.S. Department of Interior.
- Legalizing Adult-Use of Recreational Cannabis: A multi-part bill that will take effect in increments with the first portion taking effect July 1. The breakdown is as follows:
- Possession: Possession of cannabis for recreational use is legal now in Connecticut for adults age 21+. Adults can have up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis on their person, and up to 5 ounces in their homes or locked in their car truck or glove box.
- Retail sales: Retail sales of cannabis are projected to begin in Connecticut by the end of 2022. The sale, manufacture, and cultivation of cannabis for commercial purposes requires a license from the state.
- Homegrown: Patients who are participating in Connecticut’s medical marijuana program will be permitted to cultivate up to six cannabis plants (three mature, three immature) in their homes beginning October 1, 2021. All adults age 21 and over will be permitted to grow a similar number of plants indoors within their homes beginning July 1, 2023.
- Plastic Bag Ban: The final stage of Connecticut’s phase out of single-use plastic bags took effect on July 1. You will no longer be able to get a plastic bag at grocery store check outs. Since we began the phase out in 2019, we have seen Connecticut residents transition over to using reusable bags - which are significantly better for the environment.
The full list of laws that took effect on July 1 can be accessed by clicking here.
I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?
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Lamont Issues First Veto of the 2021 Legislative Session
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On Wednesday, Governor Ned Lamont issued his first, and so far, only veto in the 2021 legislative session. Lamont decided to veto a bill, commonly known as the PROTECT Act, which would have set statutory limits on the use of solitary confinement. In addition to the veto, Lamont also issued an executive order which limits the practice of solitary confinement, but not in the manner laid out in the original legislation – and, since it's only an executive order, it could be easily rolled back if Lamont didn't run for reelection or loses his race.
The order states that by September 1, individuals housed in general population can only be held in isolated confinement due to their disciplinary status, and that by October 1 anyone in isolated confinement will be allowed out of their cell for two hours a day except in “extraordinary circumstances.”
I would like to know, what do you think of this issue?
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Today in Connecticut History: Connecticut Remains Opposed to the War of 1812
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As a region, New England was fiercely opposed to the war, which the Yankees collectively viewed as a frivolous and economically disastrous war waged by President James Madison against the British Empire. But Connecticut took its opposition to a new level — one that almost provoked a constitutional crisis for the still-young country.
In the spring of 1812, Connecticut Governor Roger Griswold — just re-elected because of his staunch opposition to “Mr. Madison’s War” — received a request from Major General Henry Dearborn to commandeer five companies of Connecticut militiamen for federal service. On July 2, Governor Griswold delivered his reply: a flat-out refusal to release Connecticut’s militia companies to fight in the war. Citing the U.S. Constitution, Griswold noted that militias were supposed to be summoned by the federal government “to execute the laws of the Union, suppress insurrections, or repel invasions,” and since the United States did not appear to be in any “imminent danger” of invasion, he would not cede control of the militia to General Dearborn.
Griswold continued to resist the federal order to turn Connecticut’s troops over to federal control for months, instigating court proceedings that ultimately ended up in the Supreme Court. That body ruled against the recalcitrant governor and ordered the Connecticut militia to join the war effort.
Learn more about today's piece of history and other interesting historical facts about our state by visiting the Office of the State Historian's page here.
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Enjoy the Summer with FREE Youth Admission to CT Museums
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The past year was very difficult for families across Connecticut as children and parents both navigated remote learning, new childcare demands, and social distancing measures. As our communities re-open, Connecticut has launched several summer enrichment initiatives to provide children with fun and educational opportunities that capitalize on the outstanding resources throughout our state.
This summer, all children—plus one accompanying adult--will receive free admission to over 90 museums across Connecticut. This program will be offered through September 6th to all Connecticut children, ages 18 and under.
This initiative will be available at museums, science centers, aquariums, and historical landmarks across the state. Participating centers include the Connecticut Science Center, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Mystic Aquarium, and Mystic Seaport Museum. Click below to view the full list of participants.
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I hope you and your kids take time to explore all our state has to offer this summer- especially throughout hot weeks like this one!
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Beat the Heat During Extreme Temperatures
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This past week, Connecticut endured extreme temperatures that prompted heat advisories from the National Weather Service. As we enter the dog days of Summer, this is an important reminder that if you require immediate relief from the heat, dial 2-1-1 or click here to find a cooling center near you.
While extreme heat can put us all at risk for certain illnesses, especially heat exhaustion and heat stroke, some vulnerable populations are at greater risk than others:
- Infants and young children are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.
- People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature.
- People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.
- People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.
- People with pre-existing medical conditions, especially those with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, including medications for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.
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In these extreme temperatures, it’s important to stay cool and stay safe. Here are some tips to help manage the extreme heat.
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening. Try to rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to cool off. (Call 2-1-1 for a list of cooling centers).
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Take cool showers or baths.
- Check on those most at-risk several times a day.
- Pets that cannot be brought indoors should be provided ready access to water and shade to keep them cool.
- Drink at least two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
- Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
- Remind others to drink enough water.
Please make sure you are staying cool, hydrated and safe during these extra hot summer days. Check in on loved-ones and neighbors who you think may need a little extra help. And as always, if you or someone you know needs any extra assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
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Free Community College Tuition – Applications Now Open!
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Applications are now being accepted for Connecticut’s free community college program. The deadline for the upcoming school year is July 15.
Pledge to Advance Connecticut (PACT) was established by the legislature in 2019 to provide free tuition for students attending all twelve community colleges. PACT bridges the tuition gap students may have after receiving scholarships and other financial aid – and we allocated funds for this critical program in our new state budget.
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Don't delay! Students must apply by July 15 to take advantage of PACT. Funds are available on a first come, first served basis.
To qualify for PACT, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a graduate of a public or private Connecticut high school (GED and home-schooled students qualify).
- Be a first-time college student (those who participated in dual enrollment programs while in high school are not excluded).
- Complete the FAFSA and accept all awards.
- Attend community college full-time (12 or more credits per semester).
- Enroll in classes today for first come, first served consideration.
- Participate in a degree or credit-bearing certificate program.
- Once enrolled, remain in good academic standing.
Students from all financial backgrounds are eligible. To get started click here:
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PACT is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning grants cover any expenses remaining after students have exhausted federal, state and institutional financial aid opportunities. In fact, even students who have all their tuition and fees covered by financial aid are eligible for at least $250 per semester.
Still have questions? Click here for the PACT Manual.
We are fulfilling our promise of tuition-free community college because everyone deserves a quality education that can put students on the path to success.
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COVID-19 Updates & Upcoming Vaccine Clinics
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Get ready to "Rock the Shot" and get rewarded for doing your part to battle COVID-19. If you're 18+ and have received at least one dose of the vaccine, you have a shot at premium concert tickets to some of the hottest concerts coming to CT this summer, including Luke Bryan, Lil Baby, Jonas Brothers, and more! Get more info or enter to win by clicking here. To participate in the upcoming July 8 drawing, you must enter by Tuesday, July 9.
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Not only are you doing your part to support the public health of our communities, but there are so many ways to get rewarded for getting the vaccine this summer. Check it out: "Make a Splash, Get Vaxxed," "CT Food On Us," and "CT Fun on Us."
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The Community Health Center vaccine clinic at the Pratt & Whitney Airfield in East Hartford is accepting walk-up appointments Tuesday - Saturday, 8:30AM - 4PM. You are encouraged to bring ID and a medical insurance card, but this is not required. The East Hartford Health Department will also continue to offer vaccinations to medically homebound residents. Homebound residents should fill out this form or call the Health Department at (860) 291-7324.
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The Town of East Hartford will host pop-up vaccine clinics on Saturday, July 3 and Sunday, July 4 at Goodwin University Plaza (417 Main Street) from 12PM-6PM. No appointments or insurance required, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson will be offered. For more info, click here.
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For more information on receiving the COVID-19 vaccine or to locate an appointment near you, click here. Those without access to the internet can call the Connecticut’s Vaccine Appointment Assist Line, available seven days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM, at 877-918-2224.
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Need a ride? Lyft and Uber will be offering a ride to and from a vaccine site for free until July 4. To learn more click here or here.
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Getting tested is still essential to battling the pandemic. First Choice Health Center is continuing to provide FREE COVID-19 testing at the East Hartford Town Hall parking lot (740 Main Street) on Tuesdays from 8:30AM-1:30PM. Tests are completely free. No ID, insurance, or appointment required. To get more information, click here.
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Celebrate the 4th of July at Globe Hollow Swimming Area! From 1PM-6PM on Sunday, July 4, the Manchester Recreation Division will be handing out free popsicles to the first 150 people to enter. All ages welcome, first come, first served as supplies last.
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Get ready for another Tremendous Tuesday Family Show hosted by Manchester Public Library on Tuesday, July 6 at 6:30PM! Magician Ed Popielarczyk will present his comedic show full of tricks and audience participation. The library recommends that families bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the show outside near the Howroyd Room patio. The program is recommended for ages 3 and up.
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Join myself, State Senator Cassano, and State Representatives Currey, Doucette, and Luxenberg, in-person or virtually on Tuesday, July 13 at 6PM to discuss everything that happened during the 2021 legislative session. For those comfortable, we can't wait to see you in-person at Manchester Community College in the SBM Charitable Foundation Auditorium, and for those who prefer a virtual option, be sure to tune in via Facebook Live on Majority Leader Rojas' Facebook page.
We want to hear from you! Tell us what you want to know, submit your questions in advance by emailing Awet.Tsegai@cga.ct.gov. For those joining us in-person, masks and social distancing are required.
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This week's Sounds of Summer concert series on Thursday, July 8, 6PM – 8PM at Great River Park (301 East River Drive) is bringing you Pop/Rock and Classic Rock group, Larry Stevens Band.
Concerts will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather, cancellations will be posted on the Town of East Hartford website and Facebook page. Any cancelled concert will attempt to be rescheduled.
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Calling all East Hartford car enthusiasts and spectators! The Annual Cruisin' East Hartford Car Show is happening on Saturday, June 10, 1PM-4PM at a new location, East Hartford Middle School (777 Burnside Avenue). Car entrance fee is $10, there is no cut off year - Classics (both domestic and foreign), Street Rods, Customs, Antiques, Old and New Muscle are all welcome.
Pre-registration is not required; show cars will register on site on the day of the event. There is no fee for spectators! In case of inclement weather, updates will be posted here, the rain date will be Sunday, July 11. For more information, please call East Hartford Parks and Recreation at (860) 291-7160 or CT Street Legends at (860) 280-8076.
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Join myself, State Senator Anwar, and State Representatives Currey and Genga, in-person or virtually on Thursday, July 15 at 6PM to discuss everything that happened during the 2021 legislative session. For those comfortable, we can't wait to see you in-person at East Hartford Town Hall, and for those who prefer a virtual option, be sure to tune in via Facebook Live on Majority Leader Rojas' Facebook page.
We want to hear from you! Tell us what you want to know, submit your questions in advance by emailing Awet.Tsegai@cga.ct.gov. For those joining us in-person, please find East Hartford Town Hall's COVID guidelines here.
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My office is always open if you or your family are in need of assistance. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at Jason.Rojas@cga.ct.gov or by phone at 860-240-8541.
Sincerely,
Jason Rojas
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