Lower Electric Bills, Modernizing Our Elections, and Supporting Our Veterans

April 28, 2026

The legislative process is moving at an accelerated pace as we approach the end of the session on May 6. I have joined my colleagues in the House Chamber for vigorous debate and timely votes. Please read below for a recap of what we have accomplished so far.
 
Prices are coming down on your electric bill. Keep scrolling to learn how much you can expect to save starting in May.

We are enjoying spring weather, and that means bears are out of their dens. The Simsbury Police Department urges you to take down bird feeders. I'll let you know how much you could get fined for a violation.

Here are the sections in this email:

  • Highlights From Session
  • Lower Electric Bills
  • Scam Alert: Fake Court Text Messages
  • Expanding Financial Aid
  • Renters' Rebate Program
  • Autism Acceptance Month
  • Be Bear Aware
  • Puppies for Adoption Visit Capitol
  • Simsbury First Responder Honored
  • Community Events

 

Highlights From Session

The House has recently advanced several important proposals including House Bill 5001 to strengthen and protect our democracy, making sure voting in Connecticut stays safe, secure, and accessible to every eligible voter.

As Vice-Chair of the Government Administration and Elections Committee, I was proud to help support this bill through the committee process and onto the House floor. After Connecticut voters overwhelmingly approved the expansion of absentee voting for all in 2024, it was our job to modernize the law and make the process clear. Instead of having to fit into narrow categories to qualify, the measure now allows voters to request an absentee ballot for any reason.

The legislation also protects voters from intimidation. It prevents Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other federal officials within 250 feet of polling places or other sensitive election sites without permission from state officials or a court order. It also gives our Attorney General the authority to step in if there’s interference. No one should feel nervous about showing up to vote because of who they are or where they come from.

Voting is a fundamental right. This bill strengthens access while protecting the integrity of our elections.

The Senate now has until May 6 at midnight to act on the measure.

The House also passed a measure to support Connecticut’s small businesses by creating a pathway to access state grants and economic development programs.

Under House Bill 5467, which I am proud to co-sponsor, an employee with the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) would serve as a direct point of contact for small businesses. This individual would help business owners navigate available funds, incentives, and community development programs administered by DECD.

Too often, small businesses struggle to identify what resources are available or how to apply. This measure creates an accessible gateway for information and assistance, ensuring business owners have someone to answer questions, connect them with the right programs, and guide them through the process.

House Bill 5467 is an important step toward removing barriers and helping Connecticut businesses grow and thrive.

My colleagues and I voted to confirm a number of judicial nominees to the Connecticut Supreme Court, Appellate Court, and Superior Court. Judicial appointments are among the most important responsibilities we have as legislators because these individuals will interpret and apply our laws for years to come.

As a practicing litigator, I take this responsibility seriously. The courtroom is where laws passed in Hartford meet real people and real consequences. That is why I carefully review each nominee’s qualifications, experience, and commitment to fairness before casting my vote. Our judiciary must be independent, impartial, and guided by the rule of law, not politics or ideology.

Connecticut is fortunate to have a strong tradition of judicial excellence, and these confirmations reflect that continued commitment to integrity and professionalism in our courts.

Additionally, the House unanimously passed House Bill 5406, The Connecticut Hero Act, and it is now heading to the Senate for consideration. 

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 fess
  • Expanding eligibility for state military medals
  • Requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to warn veterans about unauthorized "claim sharks"

These updates improve access to critical services, strengthen protections, and ensure greater recognition for the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
 

Lower Electric Bills

Good news! Beginning May 1, you will get some welcome relief on your electric bill thanks to a new deal involving the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).

On average, Eversource customers will save about $30 per month.

These savings are largely driven by lower public benefits costs, which, thanks to legislation we passed, will now be a credit on ratepayers’ bills. 

The lower rates are expected to remain in place through at least September for most households. This is a big step forward in making energy more affordable for Connecticut families!
Click here for more ways to save
 

Scam Alert: Fake Court Text Messages

The Connecticut Judicial Branch warns residents about two text message scams aimed at stealing your money and personal information. One falsely claims you have an unpaid traffic citation and must pay immediately. The other alleges that you missed jury duty and owe a penalty. Both are bogus.

The Judicial Branch does not send texts or make calls demanding payment for motor vehicle violations. It does not threaten arrest of missed jury service by text, and it does not use a judge’s name to pressure individuals into paying money.

If you receive one of these messages:

  • Do not respond
  • Do not click on any links
  • Do not provide personal or financial information

Please share this warning with family, friends, and neighbors, so we can help prevent more people from becoming victims.
 

Expanding Financial Aid

The state is making high-demand career pathways more accessible by significantly expanding financial aid. Governor Ned Lamont announced the Connecticut Office of Workforce Strategy will implement new, federal Workforce Pell Grants. 

These grants offer need-based aid to low-income students for programs ranging from eight to 15 weeks and comprising 150 to 599 clock hours of instruction. Previously, programs needed to be at least 15 weeks and 600 hours long to qualify.

Programs must meet strict performance and quality standards including:

  • Aligning with high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industries
  • Achieving at least a 70% completion rate and 70% job placement rate
  • Resulting in wages above the state median for high school graduates

The initiative is intended to strengthen Connecticut’s talent pipeline while making education more accessible. Workforce Pell Grants are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026. CLICK HERE to learn more.
 

Renters' Rebate Program

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.

Applicants must submit their paperwork through our 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.
 

Autism Acceptance Month

April is Autism Acceptance Month. As April comes to a close, let’s take the time to recognize, celebrate, and honor the experiences and identities of individuals with Autism.

This month highlights the importance of moving beyond simple awareness toward true acceptance, fostering understanding, promoting inclusion, and supporting those on the spectrum in all aspects of life. It is an opportunity to uplift voices, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for equitable access to education, employment, health care, and community life. 

Autism Acceptance Month encourages communities to embrace neurodiversity, recognize the strengths and contributions of Autistic people, and create environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.
 

Be Bear Aware

As hibernation comes to a close, the Simsbury Police Department reminds residents of Simsbury’s ordinance against feeding wildlife and that there is a $250 fine for keeping your bird feeders outside. The rules in place aim to protect our neighbors and wildlife.

Keep in mind that most bears leave their dens for good in April. Cubs get their first look at their new world, and mother bears continue to nurse and keep their den and cubs clean. Many of us have seen the social media posts of the Sims-bear-y sow with five cubs – which only underscores how well fed our bears are. Let’s all do our part to keep our neighbors and pets safe.

Learn more here about what bears are up to this month.
 

Puppies for Adoption Visit Capitol

Some days at the Capitol are filled with votes while others come with wagging tails. I was overjoyed to cuddle with some adorable puppies that are up for adoption. Thank you to the Connecticut Humane Society for brightening our day with their visit and special guests!
 

Simsbury First Responder Honored
Congratulations to Michael Strumpf of the Simsbury Volunteer Ambulance Association for taking home the Hartford Healthcare Flight Nurse of the Year. The entire Simsbury community is grateful for your dedication to public service and helping save lives during emergencies.
 

Community Events

The Simsbury Free Library will host an in-depth presentation of the New Haven and Northampton Canal at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29. A historian will showcase images, documents, and preserved artifacts of the canal.

This event is free to members and $10 for non-members. CLICK HERE for tickets.
 

The Connecticut Audubon Society welcomes you to learn how to identify birds by their sound at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 30 at Simsbury Public Library. You will learn tricks to help you recognize common bird songs and some of the tools available to help. CLICK HERE to register.
 

Simsbury Public Library will host a sustainability extravaganza, inside and outside, with tons of activities for all ages from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. Dozens of sustainable businesses and groups will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. There will also be a food truck, goats, and rabbits.
Click here to learn more
 

You have an opportunity to paint a slate for indoor or outdoor decor on Saturday, May 2! The Simsbury Historical Society will provide the vintage slate, paint, and supplies. Choose from morning or afternoon session:

  • Morning session: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Afternoon session: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Tickets are $20 per person. CLICK HERE to get yours!
 

You’re invited to a special playreading exploring themes on aging from a retired pastor at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 2 at Simsbury United Methodist Church. Organizers will read the plays about aging, relationships, and compassion. Participants will have an opportunity to discuss the play and reflect on the topics.
 
 

You have an opportunity to meet Olympic figure skating champion Scott Hamilton at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 2 at the International Skating Center of Simsbury. You’ll also see Victor Petrenko, Katia Gordeeva, and more champion skaters for a night of breathtaking performances in the Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer Ice Show at the ISCC! Click here to get tickets.
 
 

Join Connecticut-based singer and songwriter Ava Grom for an evening of live music on Monday, May 4 at Simsbury Grange (236 Farms Village Road). Doors at 6:30 p.m., music from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring your own food and beverage (carry in/carry out). There is an optional donation at the door. Funds will help support the artists and the Grange.
 

Adults and children are invited to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with crafts and activities in the Meeting House, followed by a delightful tea party in the historic 1771 Phelps Tavern. The event runs from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 9 at the Simsbury Historical Society. Learn more here.