Geraldo Reyes Jr

From my family to yours, I want to take a moment to send my best wishes for the holiday season. May it bring you and your loved ones peace, happiness and time well spent together. Remember that no matter how we celebrate, we also share many blessings. So, in the spirit of the season, please spread the joy that makes this time of the year truly special.

Looking ahead to the new year, I am excited for all that we will accomplish together. It is my sincere honor to represent you and work on issues that matter to our community and Connecticut. 

Speaking of the holidays, please remember to always drive sober. Police will be stepping up patrols to try to help keep us all safer during what should be a joyous time of the year. Read below to learn what steps you can take to ensure a safe holiday season.

We are bracing for some of the coldest weather of the season, and the governor is activating the cold weather protocol. I'll let you know when it goes into effect, for how long, and how you can help loved ones who need a warm place to stay.

Thousands of individuals in need will get an early Christmas present this year. I'll break down how Connecticut is canceling $30 million dollars worth of medical debt.

You will find the following sections below:

• Severe Cold Weather Protocol
• Medical Debt Relief
• Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

During the protocol, state agencies and municipalities coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter.

Anyone who needs a warm place to stay is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services or visit 211ct.org to view a list of locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary. 

More than 22,000 people in Connecticut can expect some or all of their medical debt to be eliminated, thanks to a major state initiative in partnership with the national nonprofit organization Undue Medical Debt.

Residents do not need to apply for this medical debt relief, nor can they request it. Those whose debts have been identified for relief will receive a branded letter from Undue Medical Debt detailing which debts have been eliminated. These letters will be sent out through the U.S. mail, starting December 23, 2024.

Click HERE to view a sample of the letter recipients will soon receive in the mail.   

Undue Medical Debt collaborates with state and local governments to leverage public investments, negotiating with hospitals and other providers to eliminate large, bundled portfolios of qualifying medical debt. This initiative specifically targets patients whose income is at or below four times (400%) the federal poverty level, or who have medical debt that constitutes 5% or more of their income. Because these medical debts are acquired in bulk and pertain to individuals who are least able to pay, they can be purchased at a fraction of their face value.

In this initial round, the state allocated approximately $100,000 from its share of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. With this investment, Undue Medical Debt successfully negotiated with a secondary market partner, such as a collections agency, and a national provider to acquire approximately $30 million in qualifying medical debt for Connecticut residents.

From now through January 1, 2025, drivers across Connecticut can expect to see more law enforcement on the roads to prevent impaired driving and keep roads safe for everyone.

During the holiday season, drunk driving is a significant threat.

The CTDOT urges the public to take proactive steps to ensure a safe holiday season:

• Designate a Sober Driver: Before drinking, plan a safe way to get home. Use a ride share service, public transportation, or a designate a sober driver.
• Stay Alert on the Roads: Keep a safe distance from drivers who appear impaired. Report dangerous drivers by calling 911.
• Intervene When Necessary: If you see someone attempting to drive impaired, take their keys and help them arrange a safe ride home.

Driving under the influence of any substance, whether alcohol, cannabis, prescription medication, or over-the-counter drugs, is illegal and dangerous. Impaired driving can lead to jail time and fines.