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| Representative Moira Rader |
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Rare Disease Day Event at the Legislative Office Building
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| On Wednesday, I had the privilege of speaking at the Rare Disease Advisory Council's (RDAC) Rare Disease Day at the Legislative Office Building. To hear what's going on in the world of rare diseases is inspiring and gives hope that one day, there will not only be treatments, but cures.
Rare Disease Day is the official international awareness-raising campaign for rare diseases, observed annually on the last day of February (either February 28 or February 29). The goal is to increase awareness among the general public and decision-makers about rare diseases and their influence on the lives of families living with these conditions. Rare Disease Day was launched by EURORDIS Rare Diseases Europe and its Council of National Alliances in 2008.
Some statistics on rare diseases:
- 300 million people worldwide live with a rare disease.
- There are over 6,000 different rare diseases.
- 72% of rare diseases are genetic.
- 70% of these genetic rare diseases begin in childhood.
I came to participate in this event because of an incredible family that lives here in the district. Their sweet, young daughter was diagnosed less than 2 years ago with a rare, terminal disease. We have been working together to try to better support families like theirs, who find themselves up against the incredible financial, emotional, and physical challenges that such a diagnosis brings to a family. I am honored to be a voice for their needs and the needs of so many who find themselves confronting a rare disease. I am eternally grateful to be in a position to help, however I can. |
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Shoreline Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Breakfast
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| I was honored to participate in the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Breakfast last week. So many wonderful organizations and individuals were recognized for their contributions. |
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Branford Fire Department Awards Ceremony
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| Congratulations to the Branford Fire Department for their recent awards ceremony. There were many members of the fire department recognized at the dinner, and Representative Robin Comey, Senator Christine Cohen, and I had the honor of presenting legislative citations to many outstanding fire professionals.
Congratulations to everyone who was recognized, including Michael "Mooner" Mullen, for receiving the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award. |
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State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) Roundtable
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| As some may know, before my time as a legislator, I spent much of my professional career in the world of architecture, design, real estate, and historic preservation. Following my graduate studies, I had the opportunity to work in both New York and Connecticut with firms focused on both new design as well as historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and community planning. The work I did constantly informs how I approach my current role as a legislator regarding housing, community development, transportation, town planning, and the historic value of our built environment. To that end, I felt it would be important to bring other legislators together to better understand the state resources available around historic preservation.
Every community in Connecticut can point to various historic properties, protected lands, and town planning that reflect the rich history of Connecticut. Next week, I will be hosting a roundtable with members of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). This roundtable will bring together legislators, preservation experts, and agency liaisons to better understand the processes and opportunities to preserve our shared historical assets and work towards better ways to protect and integrate our historical treasures into the future of our communities. |
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Come Learn More About Array Rx
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| Join Comptroller Sean Scanlon and me for a discussion on the state's Array Rx prescription drug discount program. The event is open to all and will be held Friday, March 22, at the Nathanael B. Greene Community Center in Guilford. Please note that we will be presenting during the Friday Seniors lunch. You are welcome to partake in the lunch (for a small fee) or simply attend to learn more and ask questions about this wonderful discount program in Connecticut. |
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Millions Approved for Home Heating Assistance
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| We recently approved $17 million in additional cold weather heating assistance funds – many residents and families who receive assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or Operation Fuel will have access to funds to ensure they can heat their homes through the cold weather season.
I am committed to enhancing the safety and quality of life for all residents, and I will continue to do so throughout this legislative session. |
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CT Mirror Op-Ed on Climate Change Bill
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Several of my fellow legislators and I submitted an opinion piece to the CT Mirror regarding one of the House priority bills this session - an omnibus bill on climate change that is being introduced this legislative session. I have worked diligently alongside a team of legislators to craft an impactful climate bill that will address our climate crisis, incentivize real solutions, and work towards sustaining solutions. I am so proud to be a part of this work, knowing we are taking these issues seriously and working to create a policy that has lasting, positive impacts for future generations.
HB 5004 is practical, necessary, timely, and achievable. And here's why.
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Important Election Dates Coming Up
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| Just a reminder that Connecticut now has early voting, starting with the presidential primaries! Mark your calendars to vote early on March 26, 27,28, or 30, or plan to vote on primary day on April 2. |
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Early Childhood Parent Cabinet
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The Connecticut Office of Early Childhood is now accepting applications for a new cohort of members to serve on its Parent Cabinet.
Established in 2022, the Parent Cabinet is a diverse, parent-led advisory group of 15 members that works directly with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood and gives parents and caregivers of children from birth to age 5 a greater voice and ability in shaping laws and policies that impact young children and families. The Connecticut Office of Early Childhood is the state agency that oversees childcare programs and early childhood services like Birth to Three, Home Visiting, and others.
The Parent Cabinet is open to all who care for and raise children in a parenting role, including grandparents, foster parents, and other types of guardians. Members serve 2.5-year terms. The terms of the current members expire either in June 2024 or December 2024, making the membership terms staggered.
For more information on the Parent Cabinet and its mission, visit ctoec.org/parent-cabinet.
To apply to become a member, visit ctoec.org/parent-cabinet/apply.
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Climate Poster Competition for CT Students
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In July 2022, Connecticut required climate change to be included in the science curriculum for grades 5–12. Given this new focus, the Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action will host a poster competition this year.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of legislators, environmental leaders, and others. Twelve submissions will be recognized to highlight the climate issues being studied throughout the state. (High-resolution images will be required if a submission is selected.) Connecticut Coaltion for Climate Action will also host an event at the State Capitol the week of Earth Day to celebrate the winners and share their submissions. |
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You Have Choices When it Comes to Electric Supply Rates
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| As energy prices are top-of-mind, I encourage constituents to educate themselves about electric supply rate choices. You can visit energizect.com, where you'll find the Rate Board, a helpful tool for shopping around and comparing prices. PURA staff also recorded a 5-minute tutorial on how to shop for a third-party electric supplier. (Make sure to use the correct link to avoid any confusion or misinformation from copycat websites.)
Remember, standard service (default) supply rates change twice per year for customers - January 1 and July 1. The rates are generally announced 45 days in advance of the effective date, so customers should mark their calendars for May 15 to confirm that their third-party supply rate remains competitive with standard service. State law prohibits suppliers from charging early cancellation fees.
The tutorial video can also be found by clicking the graphic below. |
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Local Parks & Recreation Spring & Summer Program Guides Available
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| Spring is around the corner and our community Park and Recreation departments are ready to offer wonderful programs for all ages and abilities. I encourage you to take a few minutes to peruse their offerings. After a long and sometimes challenging winter, I'm sure all of us could benefit from taking some time to explore new activities or learn something new.
Click each of the graphics below to be directed to the Branford or Guilford Spring and Summer Program Guides. |
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