Updates from State Rep. Chris Poulos - September 8, 2023

September 8, 2023

 
Paraeducators provide critical and direct support to teachers like me and students, which makes them an integral part of the school ecosystem. That is why I am happy to share that the Paraeducator Healthcare Subsidy Program will provide $5 million in financial assistance and increase access to quality health care.

This program was created during the 2023 Legislative Session and signed into law as part of the bipartisan biennium budget. It will help paraeducators enrolled in high-deductible health plans with a health savings account and employed by a local or regional school district with a one-time stipend to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Payments are expected to go out in September to more than 4,000 paraeducators.

Legislative leadership made appropriating these funds a priority in budget negotiations to help bridge the painful gap between high-deductible health plans and low wages for paraeducators, who are critical to our classrooms. We must continue efforts that ensure that paraeducators receive proper compensation and benefits.

Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks for taking the time to read them! 
Apple Harvest Festival Approaching

It's almost time! The annual Southington Apple Harvest Festival is scheduled for the weekends of September 29-October 1 and October 6-8. It is one of Connecticut's top tourist events, held during the height of New England's beautiful fall foliage, and visitors will enjoy a jam-packed schedule of events, entertainment, activities, specialty foods, crafts and fun for all ages. The Apple Harvest Festival is also one of the longest-running festivals in the northeast and typically draws a crowd of more than 100,000 people. 

My favorite part of the festival is the apple fritters!
Please click on the links below for more information about the Apple Harvest Festival.

Hope to see you there!
New Law Supporting Our Firefighters

A new state law making it easier for firefighters in Connecticut, who develop cancer, to receive workers’ compensation benefits goes into effect on October 1. Approved as part of the recently enacted state budget, this law creates a presumption that a firefighter’s cancer diagnosis comes from hazardous conditions on the job. This move will make it easier for their claims to be approved.

It applies to any uniformed member of a paid municipal, state, or volunteer fire department, as well as local fire marshals, deputy fire marshals, fire investigators, fire inspectors, and other classes of inspectors and investigators.

All our firefighters have been putting their lives on the line for our communities. I am always happy to step up and protect our firefighters and their families so they can have a future.

To learn more, please visit https://bit.ly/FirefightersCT.
Step into History

On Saturday, September 23 at 11 a.m., discover the fascinating stories of the historic buildings and monuments near The Barnes Museum. Explore Southington's heritage through the eyes of the Bradley, Barnes, and adjacent family members. 

This guided tour will take you from Merrell Avenue to just past Berlin Avenue unveiling the history of North Main Street's structures, monuments, and more.

Registration is required, so secure your spot now to embark on this enlightening journey. Best of all, this event is completely FREE though there is a suggested $10 donation. To register, click the image below, go to RSVP, and enter your party's details. Questions? Call (860) 628-5426.