Funding for the 117th District, Cancer Screening for Firefighters, and More!

April 18, 2025

Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday! And happy Easter to all those who celebrate.

My colleagues and I are still working diligently in our respective committees and are making sure bills are ready for the next part of the legislative process.

Please see below to see what I've been up to in Hartford and in the 117th district!

In the 117th District

Earlier this week, I visited Jonathan Law High School to listen to AP Research presentations. These students chose their own topics, conducted in-depth research, and confidently presented their findings—then held their ground during some thoughtful follow-up questions. It was truly inspiring work from the next generation of thinkers!

Great news! The State Bond Commission approved funding for three projects in our community. These projects will make the 117th District stronger, safer, and more accessible to all. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for this critical funding.

At the Capitol

I was proud to stand alongside HIV/AIDS advocates and colleagues this morning to raise awareness and advocate for continued progress in the fight against this devastating disease. Recent federal cuts to infectious disease research threaten the strides we’ve made in prevention and treatment—and risk reversing the progress toward fewer diagnoses. It’s also critical to remember: HIV/AIDS affects people of all backgrounds, not just the LGBTQ+ community. It can impact anyone, including newborns. We must keep fighting for awareness, funding, and compassion!

On Friday, I joined the Zero Waste Coalition for a press conference about improvements in our management of solid waste. Our state is in the midst of a waste crisis - instead of shipping our garbage to Ohio, we should start recycling our waste in a more practical and environmentally friendly way.

Here are the upcoming public hearings! You can register to testify and find more details in this week’s CGA Bulletin. cga.ct.gov/asp/CGABulletin/Bulletin.asp

*Reminder - you only need to register if you wish to provide testimony. You can tune in to watch the proceedings live on the committee’s YouTube channel.

Cancer Screening for Firefighters

Due to repeated exposure to smoke, toxic chemicals, and carcinogens in the line of duty, evidence has shown that firefighters have a greater prevalence of cancer than the general population. These heroes have high-risk jobs and keep our communities safe - the last thing they need to worry about is navigating their healthcare.

I am happy to announce that, effective May 1, the State of Connecticut is expanding the benefits it provides to firefighters to include free, enhanced cancer screenings. That means more than 900 firefighters enrolled in the state employee health plan and Partnership Plan will now have free access to a comprehensive, full-body scan once every two years.

Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes, and these regular screenings will help keep them healthy and keep their minds at ease.

Any firefighter enrolled on the state employee health plan or Partnership Plan who is seeking more information can visit carecompass.ct.gov to connect with a representative, schedule an appointment, and find providers in their area.