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Dear Neighbor,
Happy Friday!
Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. On the third Monday of January, we take a moment to celebrate the legacy of a consequential figure in American history. Dr. King worked alongside other civil rights leaders, and they were able to successfully push the federal government to pass legislation that addressed the horrible sins of our past.
MLK Day is also a national day of service. If you have the day off, I'd encourage you to consider volunteering in your community. Click here to find an opportunity near you.
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In this eblast, you can read about the bills I submitted taking on ReWorld, how to avoid an unpaid toll text scam alert, and more. You can click on the links below to navigate between sections.
Also, you can now follow me on Facebook and Instagram! I will be posting about the work I'm doing for you at the Capitol, local events, and any other important information. I hope you'll follow along!
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It has been an exciting start to the legislative session, and I can't wait to tell you about it.
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Earlier this week, I submitted my first two bills, both of which address public health and environmental concerns at ReWorld, formerly Covanta:
- The first bill, An Act Concerning the Regulation of Industrial Low Frequency Noise Pollution, establishes new noise standards, mandates continuous monitoring, and requires corrective action for those exceeding the standards. The bill also ensures state inspections upon complaint receipt.
- The second bill, An Act Establishing a Moratorium on Permits to Burn Medical Waste, enacts a temporary moratorium on new permits for medical waste burning. During this time, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and the Department of Public Health will conduct comprehensive studies and develop new health and safety standards. Existing permit holders must comply with these standards. The bill mandates unannounced inspections to ensure compliance. If studies find medical waste burning unsafe, a permanent ban will be recommended.
Noise pollution is a significant issue that negatively impacts health, and it is imperative that residents get the relief they need. Regarding medical waste burning, it is crucial to pause and ensure comprehensive studies are conducted, and that regulations are strengthened for the safety and well-being of our communities.
I ran to be your State Representative so I could make a real difference in my community. These bills reflect my commitment to standing with you and fighting to keep you safe. The proposed legislation will now move to committee for review and debate.
You can read coverage of the bills from The Bristol Press here.
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| As Connecticut continues to go through a chilly winter, please read below for some critical tips to stay safe during winter weather! |
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I want to make sure all of you stay safe and informed! A new scam is circulating where fraudsters are sending text messages claiming you have an unpaid toll and asking for payment. Please DO NOT click any links or provide any personal information.
Here are some tips from the FBI:
- If you receive one of these messages, file a complaint with the IC3, www.ic3.gov. Include where the number of the originating text came from, and the website from which the number was generated.
- Delete any scam texts received.
- If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.
- Always verify any toll-related charges directly through official state websites or customer service.
Stay vigilant and share this message with your friends and family to help protect our community!
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| If you have gently used clothes and linens you are looking to donate, please consider donating to the Plainville High School Project Graduation Committee on Saturday, Jan. 25 from 10am-noon at Wheeler YMCA (149 Farmington Ave, Plainville)! |
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| I encourage you to get your taxes filed for FREE this year! Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or VITA is a volunteer-supported program, that helps people making up to $68,000 annually file federal and state income tax preparation for FREE.
Click here to find a location near you |
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| VITA is available in the Hartford, Tolland, and Windham areas. Last year, taxpayers received $28 million in refunds and credits due to the amazing group of volunteers.
Click here for more information on how to help Become a VITA volunteer today!
If you have any questions please feel free to contact Taniqua Huguley at THuguley@unitedwayinc.org or 860-420-2141. |
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Sincerely,
Rebecca Martinez
State Representative |
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