Education Bill Passed, Borinqueneers License Plate, and Home Heating Help

February 27, 2026

This week, my colleagues and I approved legislation affecting our schools, bottle bill law, and health and social services. Please read below for some of the highlights that affect our community.

We unveiled a new specialty license plate honoring a mostly Puerto Rican military unit known as the Borinqueneers. Keep scrolling to see what the plate looks like and how to order yours online.

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You will find the following sections in today's email: 

  • Highlights From Session
  • Borinqueneers License Plate Unveiled
  • Apply Now For Home Energy Assistance
  • Changes to SNAP Benefits
  • St. Patrick's Day Parade

 

Highlights From Session

On Thursday, my colleagues and I passed legislation that now heads to the governor's desk for his approval. These measures represent meaningful progress, especially because they fell short of final passage last year. Moving them across the finish line this session reflects our commitment to getting important work done for Connecticut residents. Below, you'll find some of the hightlights.

We also passed a bill cracking down on bottle redemption fraud, a growing problem since Connecticut increased its bottle deposit from five cents to 10 cents.

Unfortunately, some individuals from out of state have taken advantage of the higher refund value by transporting large quantities of bottles and cans into Connecticut for redemption. Beverage distributors have reported losses in the millions due to excessive and fraudulent returns.

This legislation addresses this abuse by:

  • Increasing fines for violating the state's bottle bill law
  • Requiring redemption centers to record anyone seeking to redeem more than 1,000 bottle and cans in a day
  • Granting law enforcement the authority to pursue out-of-state violators

These changes are designed to protect legitimate consumers, small businesses, and distributors while preserving the integrity of Connecticut’s recycling program.
 

Borinqueneers License Plate Unveiled

My colleagues and I proudly unveiled a new specialty license plate honoring the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the Borinqueneers, the nickname of the 65th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army.

Plate fees start at $60. To get yours, CLICK HERE, then scroll down to "Military and Veteran Style Plates" and click on "65th Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army (Borinqueneers) Plate." 

Some of the proceeds will support the Hispanic American Veterans of Connecticut, Inc. with their efforts in providing bilingual services and assistance to Connecticut veterans and members of the armed forces.

In 2025, I proudly co-sponsored the "Connecticut Hero Act," paving the way for the creation of the Borinqueneers specialty license plate. It is a small token of our appreciation and a reminder of the price of freedom and the contributions of Puerto Rican people serving our nation. I am thankful to celebrate this extraordinary recognition in the form of a plate for all to see.

The Borinqueneers were a trailblazing military unit comprised mostly of Puerto Rican soldiers who served with distinction in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. They were recognized in 2014 for their pioneering military service with the Congressional Gold Medal. 
 

Apply Now For Home Energy Assistance

Higher energy bills are straining household budgets across the state, but help is available. The Generation Power CT (GPCT) Emergency Energy Assistance Program, formerly known as Operation Fuel, is now accepting applications from Monday, March 2 through Tuesday, March 10.

Eligible Connecticut applicants may receive a one-time grant of up to $500 to help cover a future fuel delivery or a past-due utility bill. The program is available to house households earning up to 75% of the State Median Income (SMI). 

GPCT encourages households to apply when the need is greatest since they can only make full use of this grant once every 12 months. CLICK HERE to learn more about eligibility requirements and to see the application materials.
 

Changes To SNAP Benefits

Beginning on Sunday, March 1, important changes to Connecticut law will take effect regarding how the state will issue SNAP benefits. 

Under the new legislation, Connecticut will begin staggering the distribution of SNAP benefits throughout the first eight days of the month, rather than loading them primarily the first few days. This change is designed to:

  • reduce congestion at grocery stores and retailers
  • improve access to food
  • create a smoother, more dignified experience for SNAP recipients

Look at the graphic below for more information on the new schedule.
 

St. Patrick's Day Parade

You’re invited to join the fun at the Hartford St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 7, stepping off at 11 a.m. and broadcast live on WTNH News 8!

This year’s Grand Marshal is Pat Whelan, a Dublin native and longtime Glastonbury resident whose bagpiping has become a cherished part of cultural and community events across Connecticut.

The 2026 Persons of the Year are Jim Calhoun and Pat Calhoun, recognized for their extraordinary contributions to athletics, philanthropy, and community health. From three national championships with the UConn Huskies to groundbreaking support for research at UConn Health, their impact continues to be felt statewide.

Jennifer Dibella will serve as Hartford Mashal, and Franklin Perry will serve as Hartford Honoree.

I hope you’ll join our neighbors from across our community to celebrate Irish heritage, local leaders, and a great Connecticut tradition.