This week, I met with landlords to discuss housing legislation. Please keep reading to learn about a bill I co-sponsored expanding tenant rights.
The Waterbury community is giving back in a big way on Holy Week. I will explain how Stop & Shop is making the Passover holiday extra special for local families.
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Here are the sections in today's email:
- Expanded 'Just Cause' Eviction Bill Discussion
- Kosher Food Donation & Observing Holy Week
- UConn Final Four
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| Expanded ‘Just Cause' Eviction Bill Discussion |
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My colleagues and I met with landlords on Wednesday at the Capitol to hear their concerns regarding legislation expanding no-fault evictions. I am proud to co-sponsor and advocate for Senate Bill 257 on behalf of Waterbury's hardworking and low-income families.
The proposal would require landlords of buildings with five or more units to provide a valid reason for an eviction when a tenant has been in good standing for at least one year. The Housing Committee advanced the bill last month. |
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Landlords expressed their concerns that limiting "no-fault" evictions could reduce their flexibility when making renovations, moving into their own unit, or selling a property. They argue that the end of the lease represents the end of a contract.
However, in Waterbury, we cannot ignore the reality that our city consistently experiences one of the highest eviction rates in Connecticut. I have spoken directly with renters who, through no fault of their own, were forced to uproot their families and struggle to find stable, affordable housing. Many others live in fear that they could be next. |
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If a tenant is paying rent on time and following the rules, they deserve a reason before being asked to leave their home. For families already living paycheck to paycheck, housing stability is everything.
The House and Senate have until May 6 to debate and pass the bill in their respective chambers. |
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| Kosher Food Donation & Holy Week |
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| This week, many members of the community will observe sacred and deeply meaningful religious holidays. As families of the Jewish faith gather for Passover, I was honored to attend a donation event, where Stop & Shop generously donated 2,000 pounds of kosher food to support the pantry at Yeshiva K'Tana school of Waterbury. |
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| The donation from the Stop & Shop locations on Chase Avenue and Wolcott Street includes essential Passover staples like matzo, juices, oils, fresh produce, and baking ingredients. This contribution helps more than 100 families in the Yeshiva community for the holiday. |
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Passover commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt and celebrating faith, resilience, and freedom. During the Seder, loved ones gather to reflect on enduring traditions and the meaning of redemption.
On Friday, Christians will observe Good Friday, a solemn day remembering the crucifixion and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The week culminates on Easter Sunday, when Christians celebrate the resurrection, a message of hope and renewal. |
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| These observances remind us of the enduring power of reflection and community. To all who are celebrating, I wish you and your families a meaningful and peaceful holiday. |
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Many of us will be watching with pride as both UConn's women's and men's basketball teams continue their incredible runs toward a national championship! Incredibly, both teams have advanced to the Final Four and are just two wins away from the ultimate goal.
The UConn women tip off at 7 p.m. on Friday in Phoenix, while the men take the court at 6 p.m. on Saturday in Indianapolis.
It's another remarkable moment for Connecticut. Let's go Huskies! |
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