Leader in Tax Relief

Connecticut is a leader on tax relief for low and middle-income earners.
July 28, 2023
 

I hope you are taking precautions to beat the summer heat. The state's extreme hot weather protocol remains in effect through 8 a.m. on Sunday. Cooling centers are open statewide, and you can call 211 or visit 211ct.org to find a cooling center near you.

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Community Conversation on the Legislative Session
I had a great time meeting constituents at our legislative recap at the pavilion at the High Plains Community Center in Orange. Thank you to those who joined the conversation on Monday night! Sen. James Maroney and I provided a session overview and discussed some of the laws we passed.  
If you were not able to attend and have questions or concerns you would like to discuss, I would love to hear from you. Please send me an email at mary.welander@cga.ct.gov. Connecting with you and having conversations about improving the 114th district is a top priority.
 
Leader in Tax Relief

My colleagues and I delivered on our promise to lower taxes for those who need the most help. According to a report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Connecticut is a leader on tax relief for low- and middle-income earners. While other states cut taxes for the wealthy and corporations, Connecticut stands out for providing nearly $500 million in relief for individuals and families. 

Below are some of the highlights of tax relief we passed this year:

  • Lowering the income tax rates to save many middle-class households $300-$500 a year
  • Raising the state income tax credit from 30.5% to 40% of the federal Earned Income Tax Credit - providing $210 on average for households earning less than $60,000 per year
  • Expanding an existing exemption for certain pension and annuity earnings, providing additional financial security for retirees and those close to retirement

We know that when our most vulnerable get the support they deserve, they can support Connecticut’s continued growth.
Tax Relief in CT
 
Federal Request to Support Our Farms

Due to all the recent flooding and subsequent damage to farms, Governor Ned Lamont has submitted a request for federal assistance for New Haven County and the other seven counties in the state. All the recent rainfall has washed away some crops, particularly along the Connecticut River, right before they were to be harvested. For some farms, this resulted in a total loss for the entire growing season.

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture found that 27 farms in the state, which are some of the largest farms, are estimating losses totaling more than 1,500 acres and nearly $21 million in lost sales revenue. This flooding is in addition to two previous frost events in February and May resulting in estimated losses totaling $8.4 million.
Courtesy: Tony Botticello

If Governor Lamont’s request is approved, farmers will be eligible for certain federal disaster assistance programs, such as emergency loans, to cover production losses they experienced from the flooding.

As someone who grew up in a farming community in the Connecticut River Valley, my heart goes out to the families who are facing this challenge now. I will be sure to keep you updated on the status of the governor's request and any other support offered by the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.
 
New Date for Orange Concert & Fireworks Show
The Town of Orange Concert and Fireworks show has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 2 with a rain date of Monday, September 4 (Labor Day).
The new date is designed to accommodate more families who may have traveled over the summer. The fireworks are typically held around July 4, but wet weather forced organizers to delay the show. I hope you can attend and enjoy all the fun in September!
 
In The News
Fox 61's The Real Story: "Improving Child Care"
 
Summer Fun at Our Local Libraries

More individuals and families are traveling and keeping up with busy schedules over the summer, but please make sure to visit one of our local libraries. They are great resources, offering a wide range of benefits and opportunities for children and adults. You can take advantage of new books, reading programs, or resources for research.

Our libraries are a safe space for the entire community where you can beat the heat in peace. Click on the links below to see which programs are available in the 114th district:
Woodbridge Town Library

Case Memorial Library

Derby Public Library

Hamden Public Library
 
Derby Events Calendar
To see what's going on in Derby, please click the button to access the community calendar.
Derby Community Calendar
 
Upcoming Events in Hamden
Take a look at the fliers below and click on the button to learn about upcoming events in Hamden:
More Hamden Events
 
Orange Events and Community Calendar
Check out the upcoming events in Orange, and please click the button below to access the community calendar.
Are you up to the challenge of eating increasingly spicy chicken nuggets covered in sauces from the official Hot Ones Challenge? Case Memorial Library is hosting a Hot Ones Challenges on Wednesday, August 2 at 1 P.M. This event is only for students entering grades 7-12 and requires a parent/guardian to sign a waiver before participating. Good luck!
Click Here to Register for Hot Ones Challenge
Orange Community Calendar
 
Woodbridge Events and Community Calendar
Check out the event below, and click the button under that to access the community calendar.

Woodbridge Town Library:
Click Here to Register For Mindfulness Meditation
Woodbridge Community Calendar