Robin Comey

First and foremost, I must address the devastating loss of a 12-year-old child in our community. As we collectively grieve a young life cut short, we mourn a young boy who had his whole life ahead of him. I send my sincere condolences to the surviving family members and friends. May they have the time they need to find solace and healing. When something tragic happens in our tightly woven community we cannot help but to be touched deeply. I have no doubt that we will come together to support the family and to hold each other up during these darkest of times.

This incident raises difficult questions about mental health resources, family support systems, and child safety. There will be a time as leaders to examine how we can strengthen our safety nets for vulnerable children and families in crisis.

For our students and families struggling to process this tragedy:

• Grief counselors will be available at Walsh Intermediate School tomorrow May 3rd, from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
• Community members can also reach out to Branford Counseling & Community Services at (203) 481-4248 to make an appointment

I want to acknowledge the exceptional first responders and social service professionals who responded to this tragic scene. These devoted individuals bear witness to the most difficult moments in our community and carry that emotional burden while continuing to serve with professionalism and compassion.

As we navigate this difficult time together, I ask that we respect the privacy of those most directly affected while supporting one another with compassion. I hope you join me in recommitting ourselves to protecting our most vulnerable.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or experiencing a crisis, please reach out for help:

• Local Crisis Hotline: 2-1-1
• National Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• Child Abuse and Neglect Careline: toll-free, 24-hour 1-800-842-2288

This week was very busy in the House leading passage of several bills including:

• House Bill 7081: An Act Concerning Licensure Portability for Marriage and Family Therapists to help address the severe mental health workforce shortage in our state
• House Bill 7102:  An Act Concerning Maternal and Infant Health Care to develop a strategic plan to increase the number of birth centers and birthing hospitals in the state and expand the Connecticut Fatherhood Initiative’s (CFI) objectives to include expanding fathers’ role in supporting maternal health
• House Bill 7042: An Act Concerning Implementation of the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act which acts to create greater gun safety by allowing victims of violence who are harmed by irresponsible actions by gun manufacturers, gun dealers and gun sellers to sue
• House Bill 6442: An Act Concerning Military Affairs in Connecticut or the HERO Act, legislation that helps, empowers, and recognizes our Veterans
• House Bill 5004: An Act Concerning the Protection of the environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors, is a wide-ranging measure that focuses on affordability, energy efficiency, and developing a clean economy

Wednesday marked the 50^th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, with the fall of Saigon, the Connecticut House of Representatives unanimously passed what we call the HERO Act.

The HERO Act (HB 6442) is the result of a bipartisan effort and is a comprehensive package of legislation that reflects collaboration, listening, and a deep, collective respect for those who wore the uniform and served our country.

Our veterans were willing to sacrifice everything – including their lives – for this country. They deserve to be seen, valued, and never forgotten.