Electric Vehicles, Tree Lighting, and more

November 17, 2023


 
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Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday! In this week's eblast, you can read about electric vehicles, Fairfield's annual tree lighting, and more. You can click on the links below to navigate between sections.
     
    Electric Vehicle Standards
    I want to start off this eblast by addressing the Regulation Review Committee's meeting to discuss adopting rules around electric vehicles (EVs) that would take effect 12 years from now.

    Approving these regulations would be a positive step in the right direction in Connecticut's fight against climate change and we would be joining 17 other states who have already adopted CA's vehicle standards. Unfortunately, this proposal has been met with some disinformation and I want to make sure that you have the facts.

    In the lead-up to the Committee's Nov. 28 vote, there are some key points to consider:
      • An enhanced investment in EVs does not mean internal combustion engines will be banned. Gas stations will not disappear, and dealers will still provide maintenance on these vehicles. Hybrid vehicles will continue to be sold under these regulations.
      • The US government annually subsidizes the fossil fuel industry roughly $20 billion. We as consumers fund the externalities generated by this industry as these subsidies continue to put a thumb on the scale for the status quo and disincentivize new, cleaner, and more sustainable innovations.
      • The cost of EVs will almost certainly go down between now and 2035. With the passage of the federal infrastructure law in February, $7.5 billion will be invested in EV charging, $10 billion in clean transportation, and over $7 billion in EV battery components, critical minerals, and materials. In addition, this article details automakers' and countries' EV and emissions goals. It's clear that automakers and countries across the world understand the critical importance of the transition to EVs, and it is incumbent upon Connecticut to join the movement.
      • If the timeline of 12 years is not enough time, we will reassess the situation and act accordingly. Few things are set in stone, and we will always be looking for opportunities to improve.

      Society is constantly evolving in remarkable ways. Twelve years ago, in 2011, the iPhone 4S was the newest iPhone model, nobody could imagine the power AI holds, and the Energy Department was just beginning to roll out charging stations for electric vehicles. None of us can guess what the world will look like 12 years from now, and what advancements will be made in the EV industry. But if the recent climate patterns are any indication of what is to come, the sooner we curb emissions the better.

      Oil companies and lobbyists are aggressively attacking these regulations, but don't be fooled: the electric vehicle industry is only growing, and it's critical that we pass these regulations and Connecticut leads the charge into the future.
       
      Sticks for Soldiers
      Young Americans too often come back from foreign wars with life-changing wounds. As we carry on with our lives, they struggle for the rest of theirs.

      To help ease that struggle, the Fairfield Ludlowe High School boys & girls lacrosse programs are hosting the 17th Annual Sticks for Soldiers Thanksgiving Lacrosse Classic on Saturday, November 25, 2023.

      In 2022, 24 boys and girls teams, including over 350 high school athletes, raised over $50,000. In 16 years, over $1.1 million has been donated locally to wounded servicemen and their families.

      When it can be easy to forget, this event raises awareness. For high school athletes, the chance to compete and raise money for wounded men and women just a few years older than themselves is impactful and unforgettable.

      I hope you will consider attending this wonderful community event. To donate to this incredible cause, please click here.
       
      Covenant School of Bridgeport Visit
      Being back in schools always brings me joy. Yesterday, I was able to join the Covenant School of Bridgeport, located in the old Holy Family school building here in Fairfield for their morning meeting. I had so much fun talking with these young men and answering their questions.

      The Covenant School of Bridgeport is in its inaugural year at this location but it is a part of the Nativity Miguel Coalition of schools. They provide tuition-free middle school for low-income boys with an extended day and are committed to ending the cycle of poverty through education.

      The school engages deeply with the community and just yesterday welcomed students from Fairfield Prep for lunch. They also have daily tutoring for the students. If you’re interested in tutoring even for 30 minutes once a week or leading a Tuesday afternoon extracurricular club, please reach out to Matthew Fitzsimons at 203-292-1010.

      Lastly, if you have any books (grades 4-8) to donate, they are building their library!
       
      Connecticut's First Same-Sex Marriage License Anniversary
      This week marks 15 years since Connecticut issued its first same-sex marriage license!🏳️‍

      On October 28, 2008, the Connecticut Supreme Court ruled that limiting marriage to only between a man and woman violated the state’s constitution, therefore making same-sex marriage legal in Connecticut. Connecticut was the third state in the nation to legalize gay marriage and I am proud of our state's legacy of standing up for equality. 
       
      Annual Winter Whimsy and Tree Lighting
      On Saturday, December 2 from 4:15-7pm, the Fairfield Parks and Recreation Department is hosting one of my favorite events: the Winter Whimsy and Annual Tree Lighting! The event will be held at the Old Town Hall & Museum Commons, and features food trucks, a beer garden, music, a petting zoo, pictures with Santa, and more! The tree will be lit at 5pm this year. I hope to see you there!
       
      Fairfield CARES Youth Survey
      The Fairfield CARES Community Coalition released its youth survey this week, and the findings are cause for concern: anxiety rates were very high in girls, with 52% reporting feeling anxious in the past year. Fortunately, there is hope. Click here for resources the Town of Fairfield provides, and be sure to check in on your kids as we approach the holiday season.
       
      Unemployment Insurance 101 for Employers
      Employers in the 132nd District - you might be interested in taking part in this seminar. On Thursday, December 14, at 10am, the CT Department of Labor’s Business Engagement Unit, will host a free virtual seminar that welcomes business owners and managers, human resources professionals, supervisors, benefits managers, and any other employers interested in learning about the unemployment insurance process.

      This highly anticipated seminar will provide an overview of Connecticut’s unemployment insurance system, eligibility requirements, and the responsibility of employers who are subject to Connecticut’s unemployment compensation law.

      Topics will include:
      • Background of the UI system
      • Claims filing in CT
      • Eligibility determinations
      • Employer charging
      • Overview of eligibility regulations
      • Employers’ obligations

      To register, click HERE. 
       
      Holiday Pop-Up Market

      A reminder that the Fairfield Museum's 9th Annual Holiday Pop-Up Market is this Saturday and Sunday, November 18-19, from 10am-4pm! This year's market features gifts from local vendors, raffles, and a visit from Santa on Saturday, November 18 from 10am-1pm.
       

      There is a $5 suggested donation to attend this exciting and colorful market. Cash or card will be accepted at the door. Your donation will enter you into a drawing to win a gift bag of items from the Museum shop, including a one-year family membership to the Museum.

      This is a great event that highlights some of the amazing local businesses Fairfield has to offer, and I hope you'll check it out!
       
      I'm committed to ensuring your voice is heard. Please don't hesitate to call my office at (860) 240-8585 or email me if there's anything I can do for you. Be sure to follow @LeeperForFairfield on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on everything I'm doing at the Capitol.

      Sincerely,

      Jennifer Leeper
      State Representative
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