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The Connecticut General Assembly is entering the last 3 weeks of session! It was a busy week of meetings here in the L.O.B. (Legislative Office Building) as we prepare for the House and Senate to be in session again next week, Monday, April 20th, through Thursday, April 23rd. Be sure to follow along all day on CT-N or YouTube and stay updated with the weekly CGA calendar here: www.cga.ct.gov. In this week’s email, you’ll find more detailed information on bills passed last week, financial relief opportunities for renters, ABLE CT tax advantage savings account information, CT DOT Stratford road work updates, and more!
If you have any questions, concerns, or if my office can be of assistance to you, please call my office at any time or email me at kaitlyn.shake@cga.ct.gov
This past Monday evening, April 13th, I had a blast playing in the 5th annual CGA charity kickball game, with this year's proceeds benefiting United Way of Connecticut. Majority Rules took home the win 1-0 for the second year in a row! |
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| Greater Bridgeport Government Day Roundtable |
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| This Thursday, April 16th, I participated in the Greater Bridgeport's Government Day Roundtable alongside many of my legislative colleagues from the area. It was wonderful to spend the morning discussing affordable housing, education, healthcare, and the overall cost of living with Stratford community leaders from our small businesses, Stratford Town Council, and community organizations. Thank you to everyone who participated in this important round table discussion. |
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| Legislative Forum on Private Equity |
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| On Thursday, April 16th, I attended a Legislative Forum on Private Equity, co-hosted by the Blue-Collar Caucus, Rep. Garibay, and Rep. McCarthy Vahey, as well as Connecticut Citizens Action Group, and many other community organizations. Private equity harms healthcare, education, childcare, senior care, housing, news coverage, and so many other sectors. This Forum took place to discuss how each sector is impacted and where there is room to take legislative action. |
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| Greater Bridgeport Transit Press Conference |
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On Friday, April 17th, I attended a press conference in support of protecting and preserving the Greater Bridgeport Transit (GBT) 7.6M line item in the stage budget with GBT CEO Steven DeMichele, Rep. Rosario, Rep. Gresko, and municipal leaders. I have been working closely with Rep. Gresko and Rep. Rosario advocating for this critical public transportation funding since February. With less than 3 weeks left of session it is important people contact the Governor's office and ask for the 7.6M remain in the state budget. If the $7.6 million line item does not remain in the state budget, GBT's ability to maintain its full scope of services will result in a 30% reduction of bus services and hundreds of jobs at risk of being cut beginning July 1st, 2026.
Proposed Service Changes
Due to the projected funding gap, GBT is currently planning the following service
cuts. These changes will be implemented if new funding is not secured in time.
- New routing alignments on Routes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, and 17
- Proposed Service Span Changes
- Later start times and earlier end times on most routes
- Proposed Frequency Changes
- Weekdays
- Route 8: 20 minutes → 30 minutes
- Routes 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, 17: 30 minutes → 60 minutes
- Routes 19, 22X, 23: 60 minutes → 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Route 15: Reduced to peak period service only
- Saturdays
- Route 8: 20 minutes → 30 minutes
- Routes 3, 4, 5, 6, 9: 30 minutes → 60 minutes
- Sundays
- Routes 1, 8: 30 minutes → 60 minutes
- Route 5: 40 minutes → 60 minutes
- Proposed Route & Service Day Eliminations
- Route 4: Elimination of Saturday and Sunday service
- Route 7: Elimination of all service days
- Route 15: Elimination of Saturday and Sunday service
- Route 17: Elimination of Saturday service
Statement from GBT
Greater Bridgeport Transit serves as the backbone of mobility for thousands of residents across the Greater Bridgeport Region. As federal pandemic relief funding comes to an end, GBT faces a defining moment — one that will determine whether the agency can continue delivering the level of service that riders and communities depend on. With the support of state legislators and the pending appropriation from the State Appropriations Committee, there is a path forward. But time is short, and action is needed. Without new, sustainable funding, GBT will have no choice but to implement significant service reductions that will impact working families, seniors, students, and essential workers across “It is critical that new, sustainable and adequate funding be allocated to GBT to preserve current transit services.”
—Steven DeMichele, CEO, Greater Bridgeport Transit
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Proposed Service Changes
Due to the projected funding gap, GBT is currently planning the following service
cuts. These changes will be implemented if new funding is not secured in time.
- New routing alignments on Routes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, and 17
- Proposed Service Span Changes
- Later start times and earlier end times on most routes
- Proposed Frequency Changes
- Weekdays
- Route 8: 20 minutes → 30 minutes
- Routes 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, 17: 30 minutes → 60 minutes
- Routes 19, 22X, 23: 60 minutes → 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Route 15: Reduced to peak period service only
- Saturdays
- Route 8: 20 minutes → 30 minutes
- Routes 3, 4, 5, 6, 9: 30 minutes → 60 minutes
- Sundays
- Routes 1, 8: 30 minutes → 60 minutes
- Route 5: 40 minutes → 60 minutes
- Proposed Route & Service Day Eliminations
- Route 4: Elimination of Saturday and Sunday service
- Route 7: Elimination of all service days
- Route 15: Elimination of Saturday and Sunday service
- Route 17: Elimination of Saturday service
Statement from GBT
Greater Bridgeport Transit serves as the backbone of mobility for thousands of residents across the Greater Bridgeport Region. As federal pandemic relief
funding comes to an end, GBT faces a defining moment — one that will
determine whether the agency can continue delivering the level of service that riders and communities depend on. With the support of state legislators and the pending appropriation from the State Appropriations Committee, there is a path forward. But time is short, and action is needed. Without new, sustainable funding, GBT will have no choice but to implement significant service reductions that will impact working families, seniors, students, and essential workers across “It is critical that new, sustainable and adequate funding be allocated to GBT to preserve current transit services.”
—Steven DeMichele, CEO, Greater Bridgeport Transit
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| Legislative Session Update |
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Last week, the House was in Session on Wednesday, April 8th, and Thursday, April 9th, and we passed a handful of bills. Read more about what we passed below.
The House passed H.B. 5157, An Act Concerning The Tire Stewardship Program, to strengthen Connecticut’s tire disposal program, requiring retail stores to fully participate by July 1, 2027. This step aims to reduce illegal dumping and prevent the buildup of old tires in our neighborhoods, a persistent source of blight and environmental harm. By improving tire collection and ensuring responsible tire disposal, the measure will help keep our streets cleaner, reduce public health risks, and support revitalization efforts. Keeping our communities clean strengthens our local economy and enhances the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. The Senate now has until the end of the legislative session to take up the bill.
The House unanimously passed H.B. 5406, to honor veterans/service members and military families, and it is now heading to the Senate for consideration. These updates improve access to critical services, strengthen protections, and ensure greater recognition for the service and sacrifice of our veterans. This legislation strengthens and expands support for Connecticut veterans in several important ways, including:
- Establishing a state-run dental care program for eligible veterans
- Waiving motor vehicle operator license fees
- Expanding eligibility for state military medals
- Requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to warn veterans about unauthorized "claim sharks"
The House unanimously passed H.B. 5039, aimed at increasing oversight and transparency for legislative earmarks. The bill mandates stricter documentation for nonprofits receiving state funds, requires reporting on fund recipients, and aims to curb abuses in the allocation of grants. This legislation will establish new rules to provide greater oversight of funds allocated through legislative earmarks, which legislators request each year for nonprofits and other organizations. The safeguards include additional documentation and reporting requirements for organizations that receive these allocations. Among other provisions, lawmakers will need to specify how the funding will be used, and organizations will require state approval if they plan to sub-grant the funds to another group.
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| National Public Safety Telecommunications Week |
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April 12th to April 19th is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
Our dispatchers are the calm voice in moments of chaos emergency. Their professionalism, compassion, and ability to stay composed during someone’s worst moment never go unnoticed. We appreciate all that you do today and every day.
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| Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week |
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April 12th to April 18th is National Animal Care & Control Officers Week!
We want to take a moment to recognize the incredible team behind the scenes who make everything we do possible. They are advocates for the voiceless, protectors of the vulnerable, and a steady presence when situations feel uncertain. Not only do they care for and rescue animals in need, they also protect the public—responding to emergencies, ensuring safety, and helping keep our community secure.Whether it’s rescuing, rehabilitating, educating, or simply offering comfort, they go above and beyond in ways most people never see.
We are beyond grateful for everything they do—not just this week, but every day.
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April is recognized as ABLE to Save Month in Connecticut, a time to raise awareness about financial empowerment for individuals with disabilities. The ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) program allows eligible individuals to establish tax-advantaged savings accounts that support greater independence and long-term financial security.Recent expansions have broadened access to the program, making thousands more residents, including veterans, eligible by increasing the disability onset age to 46. ABLE accounts allow individuals to save more than $20,000 annually without jeopardizing eligibility for critical federal benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid, providing a vital pathway to stability, opportunity, and self-sufficiency.Click here for more information on eligibility requirements and to enroll.
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Bridge Work on I-95:
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will start bridge work on I-95 north and southbound in Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and Stamford starting on Sunday night, April 19th.
This project is scheduled to start on Sunday night, April 19th, and be completed on Friday, July 3rd. This project ensures the bridges remain in a state of good repair.
LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO
There will be various alternating lane closures on I-95 north and southbound between Exit 7 and Exit 36 from Sunday night, April 19th, to Friday, July 3rd, overnight from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Traffic control signing patterns, crash units with illuminated arrows, and State Troopers will guide motorists through the work zone. Bridges to be worked on are 00134, 0111A, 00114, 00113, 0110A, 00108, 00107, 00106, 00115A, 00105A, 06613, 00027, 00028, 00029, 00032.
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Noise Barrier Replacement on I-95:
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has started noise barrier replacement on I-95 between Exit 32-33 in Stratford. This project is expected to be completed next year, in April 2027.
The barrier has reached the end of its useful life and needs replacement. The barrier is being replaced to conform to current standards, which are in accordance with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) MASH standards. The existing timber noise barriers have wood rot, broken or missing panels in many areas, as well as vegetative overgrowth.
LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO
Motorists can expect lane closures on I-95 northbound at Exits 32-33 in Stratford beginning Wednesday. Traffic control personnel and signing patterns will guide motorists through the work zone. Lane closure operations will generally be limited to off-peak and nighttime hours. No lane closures will be permitted during weekday morning and afternoon peak travel periods (6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.). During daytime hours, work will primarily consist of shoulder closures only. One lane closure may occur during late morning and evening hours. During the overnight hours, up to two lane closures are permitted and rolling roadblocks.
The work schedule for this project is from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.
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| Manufacturer ConneCTion Fair |
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The Manufacturer ConneCTion Fair will take place next week, on Thursday, April 23rd, at the State Capitol. This free event brings together students and manufacturers for a hands-on, engaging introduction to modern manufacturing careers.
Students from Connecticut’s middle schools, high schools, and technical high schools will explore interactive exhibits hosted by local manufacturers throughout the first floor of the State Capitol. Activities include virtual welding simulators, robotics demonstrations, and other immersive experiences designed to showcase today’s high-tech manufacturing and engineering careers—many of which offer starting salaries of $65,000 or more with no college debt.
A new addition from 2025 includes a College Student & Training Program Graduate Career Fair from 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Participation is free for both students and manufacturers. The fair has been incredibly successful, welcoming over 1,000 students last year, and we expect this year’s event to be even larger.
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| Upcoming Connecticut Nurses Day at the Capitol |
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Connecticut Nurses Day at the Capitol will take place later this month, on Wednesday, April 29th!This is a great opportunity to talk directly with legislators, connect with nurses from across the state, and see just how many different voices are shaping our profession here in Connecticut. Make sure to wear red!I hope to see you there!Click here to register.
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| National Drug Takeback Day |
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As you begin spring cleaning, clearing out old medications is an essential step toward a refreshed and safe home. National Drug Takeback Day, administered by the DEA, will take place on Saturday, April 25. This event provides residents with a free, convenient way to safely dispose of unwanted, unused, or expired medications at local collection sites. The DEA partners with local law enforcement agencies across the United States to host this event in local communities like ours.
The Stratford Police Department will host a Drug Takeback Site at 900 Longbrook Ave in Stratford from 10 a.m. to 2p.m. on Saturday, April 25th.
Host sites will collect pills and capsules, as well as prescription and over-the-counter medicines. The DEA cannot accept liquid, sharps, or needles. Trained volunteers will be present to handle collected materials and ensure safe disposal. Any medication you wish to dispose of should be presented in a clear, sealed bag. Loose pills or capsules will not be accepted.
If you are unable to attend the event, MyOldMeds.com offers a Locator Tool to help you find the nearest disposal site year-round. There are more than 29,000 verified locations in all 50 states that have secure unwanted or expired medicine disposal kiosks, and/ or provide free in-home disposal kits upon request. Additionally, the Locator Tool provides disposal site hours of operation, hours of collection, what is collected, and other helpful information. |
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| Connecticut Renters’ Rebate Program |
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Connecticut’s Renters’ Rebate Program is now open to eligible renters who are elderly or living with a disability and meet certain income requirements.
Qualified applicants may receive rebates of up to $900 for married couples and $700 for single individuals. The rebate amount is determined using a graduated income scale, as well as the total rent and utility payments (excluding telephone) made during the previous calendar year.
Applications must be submitted through your local municipality’s assessor’s office or a designated social service agency. The application period is now open and will run through September 30. Please note that no extensions are permitted, and all applications must be received by the municipality no later than September 30.
Click here for more information about eligibility requirements and how to apply. |
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| Stratford Community Updates |
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| View the calendar below for the weekly Stratford Eats schedule of community meals, food pantries, and other food resources in the Stratford community. |
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| Sterling Community Center has opened their scholarship applications for graduating seniors who plan to continue their education. Click here to for more information and learn how to apply. |
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B.E.S.T. Committee’s 41st Celebration Luncheon will take place on April 23rd, starting at Noon at Riverview Bistro. This luncheon is a celebration to uplift Stratford students and grantees while showcasing the power of consistent support in helping them thrive.
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Save the date: The Southwestern CT Agency on Aging will be attending the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities Resource Fair coming up on April 23rd!
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The annual Earth Day Longbrook Park Clean-up will take place on April 25th, starting at 8 a.m. on Marcus Drive.
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The annual Earth Day Housatonic River Clean-up will take place on April 25th, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Birdseye Boat Ramp.
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Stratford Library will offer volunteering opportunities for teens this summer. Attend an Open House Information Session on April 30th or May 18th for more information. Applications will be available starting April 30th
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The Central Connecticut Coast YMCA will hold its 25th annual Walk to End Homelessness on May 16th at 9 a.m. at Captain's Cove Seaport in Bridgeport. Click here for more information, to register, or to donate.
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The Town of Stratford's Veterans Breakfast will take place on May 27th! Veterans and one guest are invited to attend free of charge.
When: 9:00 AM, Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Where: Vazzano’s Four Seasons, 337 Kenyon Street, Stratford
In addition to breakfast, the Town is planning a program that will include speakers, recognition of our veterans, and a traditional performance from the Stratford High School Select Choir.
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Mayor Chess and Lt. Governor Bysiewicz will honor Stratford Veterans on June 15th at 4 p.m. at Stratford High School. All veterans are welcome. Contact Mayor@townofstratford.com for more information.
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Southern Connecticut State University will honor former Stratford Brakette Donna Lopiano for being a trailblazer and leader in Women's Sports at a reception on June 15th. Click here for more information.
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Yours in service,
Kaitlyn Shake
State Representative |
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