Severe weather protocol in effect and it's Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

December 5, 2025

I hope this email finds you and your family well. This week is Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, and we’d like to share some tips to help keep our older drivers safe. Even though the winter season hasn't officially begun yet, it is certainly going to feel like it has over the next few days. The state's severe cold weather protocol went into effect for the first time this year. 

There is plenty to get to in the email below, so make sure to keep scrolling for more on: 

  • Severe cold weather protocol in effect
  • National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week
  • Early Childhood Education Public Hearing
  • Community Events

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at any time.

With a blast of Arctic air expected to blanket Connecticut over the next several days, the state’s severe cold-weather protocol has been activated for the first time this year and will remain in effect until Tuesday, December 9, at noon.

Low temperatures over the next few days will dip into the single digits, with wind chills close to zero at times.

Anyone in need of shelter or a warming center is urged to visit 211ct.org or call 2-1-1 to find available locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.

Click here to learn more.

This first week of December marks Older Driver Safety Awareness Week. Connecticut is partnering with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to encourage families and caregivers to begin open, proactive conversations about safe driving as loved ones age.

Nationally, the population of residents 65 and older has risen significantly, and in 2023 drivers in this age group were involved in nearly one-fifth of all fatal crashes. In Connecticut, 51 older adults were involved in fatal crashes that same year, representing 17% of statewide roadway fatalities.

State law allows drivers 60 and older to take an approved crash-prevention course and receive an insurance discount, providing an important opportunity to refresh skills and stay safe on the road. Click here for more information and a list of providers.

Families are encouraged to work with older adults to develop a transportation plan, which may include:

  • keeping up with vision and hearing checkups
  • reviewing medications for side effects that may affect driving
  • choosing daytime or less complex routes
  • considering adaptive vehicle equipment
  • identifying alternative transportation options if driving becomes difficult

Free resources are available through NHTSA to help older adults stay safe and to assist families and caregivers in supporting safe mobility for everyone.

Early childhood education was one of House Democrats’ priority bills during the 2025 legislative session. The newly formed Early Childhood Education Endowment is already making a difference for families and educators in Connecticut. Beginning in January 2026, the state will add up to 1,000 new spaces to the Early Start CT program, expanding access to affordable early learning opportunities for more families. In addition, provider payment rates will increase by up to 8% to help offset operational costs and support improved staff compensation. 

You’re invited to join the conversation and help shape the future of early childhood education in Connecticut by offering your feedback. Attend the ECE Endowment Board’s Annual Public Hearing on Wednesday, December 10, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Legislative Office Building.

Click here to sign up to testify in person or virtually.

Click here for more information and to register for Santa's Walking Wonderland.

The Bristol Bazaar is home to over 75 local makers, unique gifts, creative workshops, and Yellow King Bristol.

Shop small, support local and explore thousands of handmade treasures in our one-of-a-kind indoor market space. Open 6 days a week (67 Race Street), click here for more information.