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There's a lot to talk about this week on the local, state and federal levels. Unfortunately, at the top of the list is more nonsensical, cruel and damaging cuts continuing to cascade from the federal government.
Look. I’ll be the first to agree that government waste is a problem, but gutting the Department of Education isn’t the answer. Our schools, our students, and our communities rely on this funding. When you dismantle a department, families will feel the impact. We need an education system that works for every child.
On top of that, as reported by the CT Mirror, just days after cutting $155 million in public health aid to Connecticut, President Trump’s administration froze $14 million earmarked for 22 Connecticut school districts.
There's no good reason for such debilitating cuts to our schools.
We have to stay engaged, stay active and stay informed. Together, we will weather this assault on our community, our state and our country.
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There's no easy -- or good way to -- segue from that introduction, but I have been hard at work on pieces of legislation to improve the lives of the residents of the 109th District and the rest of the state.
One of the bills that I co-introduced is HB 5986, which would establish a child tax credit against the personal income tax. Connecticut is the only state that has an income tax but does not have a corresponding, permanent child income tax credit.
I and numerous colleagues are committed to seeing this critical piece of legislation pass this year. |
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Big news from the Connecticut Department of Housing!
Introducing CT Home Funds - an investment in:
 The Connecticut Home Improvement Program
The Time to Own – Rehabilitation Program
The Homeownership Construction Program
Administered by Capital for Change and the Housing Development Fund. Learn more about the new launch here: https://shorturl.at/b86p9 |
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I want to wish a joyous Eid Mubarak to everyone celebrating!
I was truly honored to be invited for the breaking of the fast last Friday night at Baitul Mukarram Masjid for the start of Eid al-Fitr. From meaningful conversations inside the mosque to the laughter and energy of the kids outside, the sense of unity and generosity was inspiring.
A heartfelt thank you to Imam Mazharul Islam and community leader Mohammad Khan for the invite and warm welcome and for all that you do to strengthen our community. |
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I was and am incredibly proud to support the Danbury Police Cadets. The work they do in our community is truly invaluable, and just as important is the training these young boys and girls receive.
I applaud Sgt. Antedominico and the entire Danbury Police Department for their dedication to shaping the future leaders of our city. Congratulations to all the award recipients, and thank you for recognizing my support.
I look forward to continuing and expanding my efforts to support you in the future. |
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| National Vietnam Veterans Day |
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Welcome home! Those are two words that every Vietnam veteran deserved to hear at the end of the war. I’m grateful that last weekend, especially here in Danbury, we had the chance to say it the right way.
On National Vietnam Veterans Day, we honored the brave warriors who sacrificed so much for our country. I’d like to recognize my dear friend and dedicated volunteer, Jean-Paul Trudel, a true hero and a role model in our community. |
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I kicked off last Saturday with several constituents discussing various topics, mainly the work I’ve been doing as their state representative.
I always appreciate the opportunity to listen to what is important to the community. A special thanks to my favorite 109th diner, Holiday Diner! |
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announcing that guiderail upgrades will be performed on Route 37 in New Fairfield and Danbury from Route 39 to I-84, from Monday, April 14, to Monday, May 12.
There will be lane closures on Route 37 during that time from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. No work will be performed on Good Friday. Traffic control signing patterns and flaggers will guide motorists through the work zone. |
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| Distracted Driving Awareness Month |
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April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the CTDOT is taking a stand with the launch of a statewide Distracted Driving Awareness and Enforcement Campaign to help keep Connecticut roads safe.
In partnership with State and local law enforcement and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the campaign will step up efforts to enforce distracted-driving laws for the month of April. |
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Nationally in 2022, 3,308 people were killed, and nearly 290,000 people were injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers. In Connecticut in 2022, the last year of verifiable data, there were 5,318 crashes attributed to distracted driving that resulted in eight fatalities and more than 787 injuries.
The CTDOT urges drivers to prioritize safety by eliminating distractions while driving. Follow these simple tips to stay safe on the road:
- If you need to send or receive a text, pull over and park in a safe location before using your phone
- Designate a passenger to manage calls and messages while you drive
- Avoid social media use while driving—no post is worth risking your life
- Do not use a vehicle’s “infotainment” screen or other portable video players while operating a motor vehicle
- If you struggle to resist checking your device, enable the “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or place your phone out of reach in the glove box or back seat until you arrive
Click here for more information on distracted driving prevention.
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As always, if you have any comments, questions or concerns, please reach out to my office.
Sincerely,
Farley Santos |
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