Early Childhood Education Funding, and more

June 5, 2026

Dear Neighbor,

June is Pride Month! Let’s celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and reaffirm our commitment to equality, dignity, and opportunity for all. During the 2026 legislative session, we strengthened protections against hate crimes and expanded access to fertility care for LGBTQ+ couples and individuals. While other states have moved backward, Connecticut continues to protect access to care, defend against discrimination, and ensure that everyone can live, love, work, and raise a family with the freedom and respect they deserve.

In this week's eblast, you can read about investments in early childhood education, my trip to Spain with the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.

Historic Investment in the Early Childhood Education Endowment
NHCSL Delegation Trip to Spain
Additional Medical Debt Erased
Connecticut Trails Day
CT Open House Day 2026

Historic Investment in the Early Childhood Education Endowment

I was so proud to see an additional investment of approximately $320 million into Connecticut’s Early Childhood Education Endowment.

Established in 2025 through Public Act 25-93, the endowment serves as a permanent funding source dedicated to strengthening Connecticut’s early childhood education system. This new investment, combined with last year’s initial $300 million commitment, positions Connecticut as a national leader in creating sustainable, long-term solutions that support children, families, educators, and providers.

Beginning in July 2027, eligible families are expected to benefit from no-cost or reduced-cost early childhood education opportunities funded through the endowment. Families enrolled in state-funded child care spaces through the Early Start CT program who earn up to $100,000 annually will be eligible for child care at no cost. For families with incomes above that threshold, out-of-pocket child care expenses will be capped at no more than 7% of household income.

This historic investment reflects Connecticut’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to high-quality early learning opportunities while providing meaningful financial relief for working families and strengthening the early childhood workforce for generations to come.

Click here for more information on the endowment.

NHCSL Delegation Trip to Spain

It was an incredible honor to join the NHCSL - National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators delegation for a trip to Spain last week to focus on strengthening U.S.-Spain cooperation, promoting international cooperation in education and science, and more.

You can read more about what our trip covered below:

Policy Innovation: Briefings on Spain’s immigration policies and their global leadership in the renewable energy space.

Defense & Security: A visit to the U.S. Navy Rota base to discuss NATO’s shared military defense.

Diplomacy & History: Spain’s role in the American Revolutionary War as we celebrate our Nation’s 250th Anniversary.

As President of the NHCSL, I was so proud to represent our country on the international stage, and I look forward to the work ahead!

Additional Medical Debt Erased

More than 97,000 Connecticut residents can expect to receive letters in the mail beginning this week notifying them that some or all of their medical debt has been eliminated.

Medical debt places a significant financial burden on families in communities across Connecticut. This marks the fourth round of the state's medical debt relief initiative, which provides meaningful assistance to qualifying residents who are struggling to pay outstanding medical bills. Since the program launched in 2024, more than 252,000 Connecticut residents have had over $513 million in medical debt cancelled, helping families regain financial stability and peace of mind.

Residents whose medical debt has been forgiven will receive a letter in an Undue Medical Debt-branded envelope featuring the Connecticut state seal (see image below). These notifications are legitimate and do not require any action on the recipient's part.

Governor Lamont will continue partnering with Undue Medical Debt to provide additional relief throughout this year. To support this effort, the Governor and the Connecticut General Assembly approved legislation making $6.5 million in federal ARPA funding available for the initiative through 2026.

This program continues to demonstrate Connecticut's commitment to easing financial hardship for residents and ensuring that unexpected medical expenses do not become a long-term obstacle to economic security.

Click here to read the full release from the governor's office.

Connecticut Trails Day

A reminder to celebrate Connecticut Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7! The Connecticut Forest & Park Association is coordinating more than 200 hikes and walks across the state, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore Connecticut’s natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors.

Now in its 33rd year, this beloved tradition brings together thousands of participants to experience Connecticut’s incredible trail network and scenic landscapes. This year’s theme, Explore Where You Live, encourages residents to discover the trails, parks, and open spaces in their own communities.

Events are designed for all ages, abilities, and experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging outdoor adventure or a relaxing, family-friendly walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

To find a hike or walk that interests you anywhere in Connecticut, visit www.trailsday.org.

CT Open House Day 2026

Mark your calendar for Connecticut Open House Day on June 13! More than 200 attractions across the state, including museums, arts and cultural venues, historic sites, farms, and restaurants, will offer free or discounted admission and special promotions. It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to discover new destinations and celebrate the rich experiences that make Connecticut such a great and fun place to explore.

Check out CTVisit for a listing of what you can do across the state next Saturday.