Legislative Updates, Women's History Month, and more

March 14, 2025



 

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Friends and Neighbors,

I hope this email finds you and yours doing well as the days are getting warmer. It was another exciting week at the Capitol as committee meetings and public hearings are taking place. The House was back in Session on Wednesday, March 5th. It is always an honor to continue to serve our community and to engage in critical conversations with my colleagues about the issues that matter to you the most.
 

Read Across America

It was a joy to participate in Read Across America this week where I read to classes at Prendergast Elementary School and Mead Elementary School, both in Ansonia, and Irving School in Derby. Read Across America hopes to encourage kids to read and keep them excited about reading. I was honored to be able to particpate and connect with students across our school districts about the importance of reading.
 

House Session Updates

Recently, I was proud to vote on a bill allocating $40 million in funding to special education, giving immediate support to more than 140 school districts in our state and helping to provide the highest quality education for our students. Over half a million dollars in additional funding will be given to Ansonia and Derby schools.

The bill we passed is a modified version of the legislation we approved the week before. It will deliver the same level of funding for special education and clarifies the funding stream for this initiative. I am thrilled that we were able to find a compromise with Governor Lamont to pass this legislation. 

Special education remains a legislative priority for House Democrats this session, and moving forward, we will continue looking for 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.
 

Women's History Month

March is Women's History Month, a time to honor the remarkable contributions women have made to our nation's history. From those who fought for equal rights and the right to vote to the leaders shaping our future today, women have played a key role in every aspect of society. Their achievements remind us of the progress we've made and the work that still needs to be done.

As your state representative, I am committed to supporting policies that promote equality, opportunity, and empowerment for all women. Let's take this month to celebrate all the women in our lives and recommit to building a future where every woman and girl can succeed. 
 

In The News: House Bill 6740

The Valley Independent Sentinel recently wrote an article about a bill I introduced, House Bill 6740, An Act Concerning the Redevelopment of Vacant Commercial Property Located in Economically Distressed Municipalities. This bill encourages the redevelopment of these properties and may help to facilitate filling commercial vacancies.
Read the Full Article Here
 

In The News: House Bill 6954

House Bill 6954, which adds witnessing a serious physical injury as a qualifying event for PTSD workers’ compensation coverage for first responders, was featured in an article by the Valley Independent Sentinel this past week. A local incident in 2021 with Derby Police Officer Foley inspired this bill and my years-long battle to change the law. Read the article below to hear Officer Foley's full story and more about the bill I hope to see passed. I want to thank Officer Foley for sharing his story and Sargent DeAngelo for coming to testify and joining forces in my efforts to change this law. 
Read the Full Article Here
 

Job Assistance For Federal Workers 

If you are a Connecticut resident who has been fired or put on unpaid administrative leave from your job with the federal government, please know this…CONNECTICUT HAS YOUR BACK.
 
The federal government may have turned its back on you, but Connecticut appreciates your contributions and employers here are eager to benefit from your expertise.
 
The Connecticut Department of Labor has brought together several programs and services specifically designed to assist you during this time.
 
Displaced federal workers and contractors can find more information on the CTDOL homepage at portal.ct.gov/dol. 
 

Vote for the Connecticut Pizza Trail

Connecticut is the Pizza Capital of the U.S., and now it’s time to decide which pizzerias deserve a spot on the ultimate Pizza Capital Trail.

Starting TODAY, you can vote for your favorite pizza spots and help shape the official list of the top 100 independent pizzerias in Connecticut.

How It Works:
✅ Vote for up to 10 of your favorite pizzerias from a list of 1000+ (or write one in!)
✅ Voting ends May 1, 2025 – don’t wait!
✅ The final Pizza Capital Trail launches in September – just in time for National Pizza Month

Whether it’s a legendary New Haven spot, a hidden gem in a small town, or your go-to neighborhood pizzeria, this is your chance to put it on the map.

Connecticut’s pizza legacy is in your hands—cast your vote and make a slice of history!
Vote Now!
 

Happening in the Community

Ansonia Nature Center Programs

SPRING NATURE DAYS - For children 6 -11 years old who love to be outdoors! Enjoy a few days exploring the nature center’s wetlands, meadows, and forests, and learn what makes each habitat unique and important for the animals that live there. Children will need to be prepared to get wet and muddy during our adventures. Please pack appropriate clothes and shoes as well as snacks and lunch. Hikes, games, crafts, and cooking will be incorporated into our lessons. This is a great choice for a fun spring break experience!
Learn More and Register Here

JUNIOR RANGERS PROGRAM - Calling all kids 11 to 14 years old who love nature! Has your child wanted to work with animals, garden, help maintain our trails, and help with special events? This is the opportunity to help the Nature Center in our 8-week after-school program. Parental permission is required. Class size is limited; this class fills up fast! Registration opens March 12th
Learn More and Register Here
 

This past weekend we switched our clocks to be an hour ahead, remeber to check your smoke alarms this time of year to stay safe!
 

Come support the Naugatuck Relay for Life team, Team Average Joe's at their upcoming vendor fair. 
 

On April 26th, Life, Health, and Wellness Inc is hosting a health fair and will have many resources and services available to those in attendance. Don't miss this great opportunity to connect with health care providers and receive free screenings. 
 

Please feel free to contact me with any thoughts and concerns you may have on Kara.Rochelle@cga.ct.gov or 1-800-842-8267. Follow my Facebook page for regular legislative updates.

All my Best,

Kara Rochelle
State Representative

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