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Our children and municipal budget are getting a major educational boost after my colleagues and I voted for $40 million in immediate funding for special education. I'll let you know how much our public schools will receive and why the timing is so important.
Connecticut remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting our veterans. Keep reading for a deep dive into how we're helping our heroes who have devoted their lives to serving our great nation.
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I'm sure some of you have received W-2s and other forms, which means it's time to start working on your tax returns. There are several reputable services offering help for free. Scroll below to find out if you are eligible.
Your children are invited to participate in the teen photo challenge, which is already underway! Please read below for the rules, guidelines, prizes, and much more!
Here are the sections in this week's email:
- $40 Million in Special Education Funding
- Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption
- Celebrating Women's History Month
- Standing for Democracy
- Business Leaders Breakfast
- Free Resources to File Your Taxes
- Teen Photo Challenge
- Community Events
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| $40 Million in Special Education Funding |
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| I was proud to vote for a bill allocating $40 million in immediate relief to cover special education costs for school districts across the state. Simsbury Public Schools will receive approximately $426,000 as part of this funding, which will help ensure students receive the specialized support they need to thrive. I am pleased the Governor's office and Democratic leaders in the General Assembly came to an agreement that delivers critical municipal funding to our schools to support our children and their futures while honoring the fiscal guardrails that have been integral to Connecticut's economic recovery. |
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My colleagues and I have heard loud and clear from communities across Connecticut -- the rising cost of special education is placing an enormous strain on local budgets, and school districts need relief now as they develop their budgets.
We remain steadfast in looking for long-term solutions to lower costs, strengthen services, and provide more financial support for our education system to make sure every child has access to the education they deserve.
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| Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption |
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| We took an important step to clarify legislation passed last year to provide better guidance to assessors and veterans regarding the much-needed tax relief for veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled due to their military service. Further action is pending in committee to work out further details in the regular legislative process. |
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| By passing this measure, Connecticut reaffirms its commitment to honoring and supporting those who have given so much for our country, ensuring they receive the assistance and recognition they deserve. |
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| Celebrating Women’s History Month |
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| March is Women's History Month, a time to honor the extraordinary contributions women have made to our society. Throughout our history, women have shaped our nation through their leadership, innovation, and resilience -- often overcoming immense barriers to create a more just and equitable world. This month, we recognize trailblazers in every field, from science and politics to education and the arts, while also uplifting the countless women in our communities who work tirelessly to make a difference every day. |
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| As we celebrate, it is also a time to reflect on the ongoing fight for gender quality. Women continue to face disparities in wages, healthcare access, and representation in leadership. It is our responsibility to not only acknowledge these challenges but to actively work toward solutions that empower and support women in all aspects of life. By advocating for policies that promote economic opportunity, reproductive freedom, and workplace equity, we ensure that future generations of women can thrive. |
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America is built on the principles of democracy, freedom, and the right of sovereign nations to shape their own future. Along with so many Simsbury residents, I stand in solidarity with Ukraine, a key partner of the United States, as it faces ongoing challenges from Russia.
Supporting Ukraine is not about partisan politics – it’s about upholding democratic values and principles that strengthen our nation. A free and stable Ukraine contributes to global security, and standing by our allies reinforces America’s leadership on the world stage.
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| Business Leaders Breakfast |
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| I had the pleasure of attending the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce’s annual business leaders breakfast where we had a great presentation on incremental innovation and heard from the CBIA regarding the state’s economy and their take on the current legislative session. The event was a great opportunity to connect with local entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders who are invested in Simsbury’s economic growth. |
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| As a legislator, a proud member of the Chamber, and a small business owner myself, I found the presentations both informative and inspiring. It reinforced the importance of fostering a business-friendly climate that supports local entrepreneurs and strengthens our economy. I had meaningful conversations with fellow business owners about strategies to drive economic development in Simsbury, and we all left with great ideas for driving our businesses forward. |
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| Free Resources to File Your Taxes |
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There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.
You can use the IRS Direct File Tool, which is a new option for anyone who lived and earned all their income in Connecticut last year.
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The federal government is also offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. Here are some of the eligibility details from VITA:
- Household income less than $68,000
- If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
- No income from a rental property
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Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save money when filing your taxes!
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| The Simsbury Public Library and the Simsbury Camera Club invite those who are 12-19 years old in the Teen Photo Challenge! Contestants may submit up to three photos in black and white or color in any category of their choice. Each image must have a title and a signed release form. |
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The challenge runs from now through March 26 and participants must drop off their prints at the library’s information desk between March 27 and April 22. The winner will receive a $75 Amazon gift card.
CLICK HERE for more a full list of rules, guidelines, a list of the prizes, and more.
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Spots are still available for Tuesday's traveling planetarium, which will make a stop at Eno Memorial Hall on Tuesday at 2 p.m. Children will learn about the sun, moon, and planets.
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You're invited to enjoy the start of spring with some trivia at on Thursday, March 20 at 6 p.m. at the Apple Barn at 60 Old Farms Road. Registration will close on 3/18. CLICK HERE to reserve your spot.
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The Theatre Guild of Simsbury presents My Big Gay Italian Wedding from March 21-30 at Eno Memorial Hall. This outrageous comedy invites you to join the chaos as family, friends, and fabulous surprises collide in a celebration of love and acceptance.
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